Native Nations Program

The Bush Prize: Native Nations, administered through the Good Relatives Collaborative, honors organizations within Native Nations in Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota that have demonstrated transformational community impact through creative, community-led solutions. The Prize celebrates organizations of all sizes that create meaningful, sustainable change by addressing systemic challenges and empowering historically underserved communities. Applicants must be 501(c)(3) public charities, public agencies, or tribal governments under Section 7871 of the IRS Code. Fiscally sponsored organizations are eligible with an appropriate agreement. Applicants must primarily benefit Native Nations within the eligible three-state region. Past Bush Prize winners within the last 10 years are not eligible. Winners receive unrestricted grant awards intended to strengthen organizational capacity, advance their work, and serve as inspiring models for others across the region. Key evaluation criteria include transformational impact, a history of using creative solutions, a commitment to community-led strategies, and a culture that fosters creative problem-solving. The application process begins with pre-qualification questions, followed by narrative responses covering organizational background, community engagement, creative achievements, and demonstration of impact. The deadline to submit the full application is not explicitly listed in the document provided, but this opportunity falls under the 2025 cycle and aligns with typical Bush Prize timelines. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply through the Good Relatives Collaborative portal.