"The secret to our success is that we will never give up."
- Wilma Mankiller, Cherokee NationNative American Jump Start’s programs are designed to “Jump Start” the needs of starting an internship, beginning an employment opportunity, or furthering one’s education. We realize that numerous ancillary costs can be a barrier to education and employment opportunities. Our grant program is designed to provide support to get your plans going or to help with these additional costs. We are here to help!
- Employment Grants
- Student Grants
NAJS Employment Grants and Programs
Not all high school grads want to pursue higher education. For some, employment and career based opportunities may be a better focus. NAJS provides opportunities for high potential Native individuals who are interested in pursuing employment opportunities, internships, have employment offers or are looking for technical skills training and job placement. Beyond grant supporting employment tracks, NAJS has partnered with several organizations who provide skills based training programs and also assist with job placement. For more information on our employment partnership programs, please see our Employment Grant & Partnership section.
NAJS Education Grants & Partnerships
High potential Native students pursuing higher education opportunities may apply to receive grant funding to support costs associated with their educational journeys. We support any post high school educational program from Technical or trade Schools, Certificate Programs and Associates, Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD degree programs. For more information on our education funding and partnership programs, please see our Education Grant Section.
Cultural Awareness is one of the core tenets of Native American Jump Start. In supporting Native American culture, NAJS provides supporting programs that focus on Cultural Awareness, including the Annual Teton Powwow and Native Voices events as well as Native American Cultural Awareness training. Additionally, NAJS is located in Jackson, Wyoming. The greater Teton region has historical, cultural and ancestral ties to the region. To learn more about the associated tribes of the region, please see the Teton Region below.
Native American Jump Start has partnered with great organizations to help provide funding and partnership programs. To learn more about these organizations, click on their logo's below.
Native American Jump Start has partnered with great organizations to help provide funding and partnership programs. To learn more about these organizations, click on their logo's below.
Chipeta Trading Company
Chipeta Trading Company provides funding to support the Chipeta Scholars program.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Do I have to be a high school graduate to apply for a NAJS Grant?
You must be a high school graduate or have received a GED.
Q: What can I use the grant funds for?
NAJS grants are intended to break down barriers to employment or educational opportunities. Some examples on the education side can be: tuition, books, school supplies; including lap to computer, housing, food, transportation, child care etc.
On the employment side, some examples include, appropriate clothing for your job, supplies, tools, equipment, transportation etc.
Q: Can I apply for funding if I have Native American Ancestry?
Q: How can I get more information on your partnership programs or how do I become a partner?
Please reach out to us on our contact page with your specific questions.
Q: How can I get involved with Native American Jump Start?
Please reach out to us on our contact page with your specific questions.
