Lessons Learned from the Native Nations Initiative
The Native Nations Initiative is based on the belief that effective governance is a fundamental factor for sustainable community and economic development in Indian Country.
DATE
June 2, 2015
The Bush Foundation launched the Native Nations Initiative in 2009 to support governance reform efforts of all 23 Native nations that share geography with Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. Five years into this 10-year initiative, the Foundation hired Wilder Research as an independent evaluator to assess our progress and challenges. Wilder interviewed program participants, tribal leadership and regional leaders from the field.
This learning paper summarizes Wilder’s evaluation (PDF).
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2026 Bush Fellowship applications are open
The Bush Fellowship is an investment in people and their capacity to do more good for the region — and it’s super flexible. Learn more and apply for a 2026 Bush Fellowship.
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Congratulations to the 2025 Bush Fellows!
Each year, we share this joyous announcement as we celebrate the people whose bold vision and leadership are shaping communities in our region. Get to know them!