FY2025 NAGPRA Repatriation Grants

The FY2025 NAGPRA Repatriation Grants program is administered by the National Park Service under the authority of the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) of 1990. This grant opportunity is designed to support the repatriation efforts of Native American human remains and cultural items, specifically to fund the physical transfer process after a notice and repatriation statement have been published. With a total program funding of $3,407,000 and an expected 15 awards, the grants offer up to $25,000 per project, with a minimum award of $1,000. These funds are intended to assist Indian Tribes, Native Hawaiian Organizations, and museums in covering associated costs like travel, transportation, contamination removal, reburial, ceremonial materials, and staff time. The primary goal of this grant is to support repatriation projects involving the return of Native American cultural items and remains to their respective communities. Eligible activities include arranging for representatives to travel and accompany items, packaging and transporting them, testing and decontaminating artifacts, creating appropriate containers, and covering necessary ceremonial materials and staff time for administration. Importantly, infrastructure projects are not eligible for funding under this program. Eligible applicants include Indian Tribes (federally recognized), Native Hawaiian Organizations, and museums within the United States that comply with NAGPRA requirements. Federal agencies and the Smithsonian Institution are not eligible to apply. All applicants must have a Unique Entity Identifier and an active registration with SAM.gov. No cost sharing or matching funds are required for this grant. Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov. A complete application must include forms SF-424, SF-424A, SF-424B, a project abstract summary, a project narrative, a detailed budget, and a repatriation statement with relevant Federal Register notices. Additional documents like resumes, letters of commitment, and consultant agreements may be required depending on the project's specifics. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and while the final deadline is May 8, 2026, funding decisions may be made earlier if all funds are expended. Evaluation criteria weigh equally across four areas: activities (25%), partnerships (25%), implementation/administration (25%), and impact/evaluation (25%). Reviewers assess whether activities are appropriate and aligned with the grant goals, the strength and relevance of partnerships, the clarity and feasibility of the implementation plan, and the methods for evaluating the project's success. Risk assessments and past grant performance may also influence funding decisions. Important dates include the anticipated start date of October 1, 2025, and the anticipated end date of August 31, 2026. While the grant is technically open through May 8, 2026, applicants are advised to submit early due to the rolling review process. All questions should be directed to [email protected] or by voicemail at 202-354-2201.