Challenge Grants create new scholarships for Native American students at schools like Black Hills State University in South Dakota. (Photo courtesy of Black Hills State University)

Many colleges, even those with relatively large Native American populations, do not have sufficient resources to help these students. The need for financial assistance, coupled with a sense of isolation and lack of support, discourages many minority students from pursuing higher education.

 

The AIEF Challenge Grant Program acts as a catalyst for the creation of new Native American scholarships by encouraging public and tribal colleges to seek funds specifically for this purpose. At selected schools*, AIEF offers up to $20,000 annually for three years to match new gifts.

 

Donors are typically more generous when they know their gifts will be multiplied by a challenge grant. In the 2008-2009 academic year alone, five participating schools raised nearly $120,000 for new scholarships, and AIEF contributed an additional $59,000!

 

The money goes to work immediately at each institution, allowing bright and talented students to focus on their studies instead of financial concerns. In addition, the Challenge Grant Program draws attention to the needs of Native American students at partnering institutions.

 

Each partner institution must provide a student center for Native Americans, which helps counter the sense of isolation that many minority students experience. AIEF staff also visit scholarship students throughout the year to offer advice and encouragement.

 

At AIEF, we know that the resources our donors commit to helping these students will pay dividends far into the future.