Tribal Lands Conservation (TLC) Fund

Tribal Lands Conservation (TLC) Fund is sponsored by First Nations Development Institute. A flexible fund designed to support Tribes and Native-led organizations that are developing innovative environmental solutions and upholding traditional knowledge and stewardship practices to protect lands, waters, and ecosystems.

Tribal Lands Conservation Fund | First Nations Development Institute Invest in Knowledge That's Native Tribal Lands Conservation Fund Native Solutions to Climate Change, Conservation, and Environmental Justice In 2023, First Nations launched the Tribal Lands Conservation (TLC) Fund , a vehicle to direct more funding into Native-led stewardship.

This flexible fund is designed to support Tribes and Native-led organizations that are developing innovative environmental solutions, and upholding traditional knowledge and stewardship practices that will protect our lands, waters, and ecosystems for generations to come. Why is the TLC Fund so important? Philanthropy’s investment in Native-led stewardship is remarkably low.

First Nations’ research shows that, on average, only 23/100ths of one percent of grants distributed by large foundations between 2006 and 2012 went to Native-led organizations and causes. Further, of that small amount, only 6% of dollars granted went to Native-led organizations that serve the environment. In addition, much of the funding available through philanthropy prioritizes Western Science.

The TLC Fund celebrates and invests in Native-led stewardship and traditional knowledge and is designed to ensure support gets to Tribes and Native communities that are advancing stewardship that is centered on Native knowledge, values, and traditions. How First Nations uses the TLC Fund Through the TLC Fund, donors and funders can directly support Tribal-led solutions that benefit everyone.

The TLC Fund is used to invest in Native community partners and projects that fall under our Stewarding Native Lands’ five strategic initiatives: Climate, Community Pathways, Environmental Sovereignty and Justice, Stewardship, and Woven Lands. In 2024, First Nations amplified opportunities to invest in the TLC Fund with the “Bring Back the Native” campaign.

The… The TLC Fund kicked off with the campaign “Knowledge That’s Native,” raising over $1. 5 million to support Native-led climate justice… TLC Fund: Stories & Resources Access videos, book lists, and children’s activities about the Tribal Lands Conservation Fund and the importance of stewarding Native lands.

… From July 1 to August 31, 2026, all donations will go toward programs and projects that invest in Native youth and their families, or to our Native Youth and Culture Fund.