The STC Funders Group

The Strengthening the Circle Funders Group is a funder-to-funder learning circle that is committed to learning more about Native-led nonprofits, respectfully building peer-to-peer relationships with Native nonprofit leaders, and funding their work as there is a match with each funder’s mission.

An annual four-day STC gathering of Native nonprofit leaders and funders provides an opportunity for funders to meet nonprofit leaders who are working in areas that match foundations’ funding priorities. Through the STC Funders Group, foundation leaders and fund advisors extend their learning and relationship building through bi-monthly conference calls, informal networking and sharing with one another, and the opportunity to participate in an annual funders’ tour to different Native nations.

Approximately 80 foundation leaders and philanthropic fund advisors
Strengthening the Circle aims to invest in Native nonprofit organizations in the Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountain region by helping to:
- Build the capacity of Native-led nonprofit organizations' Boards, staff, and early career professionals so that there are more resources, networks, and services for youth and families in tribal communities;
- Share knowledge among organizations about traditional ways of leading and governing;
- Develop culturally appropriate training materials to build the base of support available to Native nonprofit organizations and foundation leaders that support them; and
- Encourage more private foundations to support this vital work.
Strengthening the Circle invests in Native nonprofit organizations as they provide services and resources to the families and communities they serve. This is achieved by offering technical assistance, resources and networking and generating more private foundation support for Native nonprofits and their work. It is an exciting time and important work as Native nonprofits are strengthening community self-reliance, livable wage jobs, environmental health, education and social services.
- Be mindful of Tribal sovereignty and value the uniqueness of each Tribe
- Seek to understand Native culture and customs
- Appreciate Native intelligence and embrace affirmative, asset- based frameworks
- Deepen understanding of shared values
- Build long-term, reciprocal relationships based on respect, trust, honor and humility
- Invest for the long-term; be patient and willing to take risks
- Be willing to recast what success looks like and use a Tribal lens to do so