Native American Language Preservation and Maintenance

The Administration for Native Americans (ANA), under the Department of Health and Human Services, will be announcing funding opportunities for the Native American Language Preservation and Maintenance program. This initiative aims to support Native American communities—including federally and non-federally recognized American Indian tribes, Native Hawaiians, Alaskan Natives, and Native American Pacific Islanders—in efforts to assess the status of their native languages and to develop, restore, and implement language curricula and educational programs. The goal of the program is to assist communities in preserving and maintaining their native languages through comprehensive planning and project execution. Applicants can expect the program to fund projects that focus on language assessments within established communities as well as those that engage in strategic design and implementation of language preservation activities. The solicitation is forecasted to be posted on or after April 2, 2026. Interested parties and potential applicants can reach out to the designated point of contact, Carmelia Strickland, for more information or assistance regarding the application process. This funding opportunity provides a critical resource for communities dedicated to sustaining their linguistic heritage for future generations.