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- By Native News Online Staff
First Peoples Fund (FPF), a national nonprofit committed to uplifting Native American artists and culture bearers, proudly announces the recipients of its 2026 Cultural Capital Fellowship. This year, seven artists have been selected to receive the prestigious award. Each fellow will receive $10,000 along with a year of professional development support.
The 2026 Cultural Capital Fellows are:
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Adam Valdez (Reclamation), Diné
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Pua Case, Kanaka Maoli (Native Hawaiian)
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Cliff Fragua, Jemez Pueblo
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Kellen Trenal, Niimíipuu (Nez Perce), Walla Walla, Yakima
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Lavender Doris, Red Lake Anishinaabe Nation of Minnesota
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Shauna Elk (Wakage by Shauna), Standing Rock Sioux Tribe
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Stephanie Craig, Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde
The Cultural Capital (CC) Fellowship honors artists who are dedicated to preserving ancestral knowledge and celebrating Indigenous heritage. Through their work, these artists ensure that cultural traditions remain strong, relevant, and thriving for future generations.
“We are honored to support the growth and development of emerging and mid-career Native artists and culture bearers,” said Jaren Bonillo, Director/Program Weaver at First Peoples Fund. “Their creative work and the sharing of traditional knowledge enrich individual lives while strengthening cultural continuity and community well-being.”
Since its founding, First Peoples Fund has recognized more than 550 artists representing 152 Tribal Nations across 30 states and two Canadian provinces. Since 1999, the organization has distributed more than $10 million to Indigenous artists through fellowships, grants, workshops, and community programs.
The Cultural Capital Fellowship is made possible through generous support from leading philanthropic partners, including the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, the HRK Foundation, the Margaret A. Cargill Foundation, and the McKnight Foundation.
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