Emerging Native Language Leaders Fellowship

Applications are now open for the second cohort of the Emerging Native Language Leaders Fellowship, presented by the National Indian Education Association (NIEA) with support from The Henry Luce Foundation.

This fellowship supports emerging Native language leaders who are working to strengthen, revitalize, and carry forward Native languages within their Tribal Nations and Native communities. Through mentorship, professional development, peer connection, and collaborative learning, fellows will have the opportunity to grow their leadership while building relationships with Native language advocates from across the country.

What Fellows Receive

Fellows will receive:

• A laptop for virtual meetings and fellowship participation
• One-year NIEA membership
• Fully sponsored travel to an in-person fellowship session and the NIEA Convention
• $7,500 upon successful completion of the fellowship

Eligibility

Applicants must be:

• Ages 18–30
• American Indian, Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian, with documentation required
• Currently working in Native language revitalization within a Tribe, organization, school, or community program

Important Dates

Application Deadline: Friday, May 29, 2026
Fellowship Year: June 2026 to May 2027

Apply Now

NIEA encourages emerging Native language leaders to apply and share this opportunity with others in their communities.

For questions or additional information, please contact Niiyo Gonzalez, Native Language Specialist, at NGonzalez@niea.org.