Thanks to the support of the David & Lucile Packard Foundation, and in partnership with Native Americans in Philanthropy (NAP), Biodiversity Funders Group (BFG) is proud to release a new white paper: Tribal Co-Stewardship and Co-Management of U.S. Ocean and Marine Waters.

BFG recognizes that Indigenous stewardship has the potential to establish enduring mechanisms for biodiversity protection of ocean waters. This aligns with the goals of ocean funders and strengthens the capacity of Tribes to serve as long-term ocean managers. This white paper emerges from growing interest among BFG members to engage more deeply with these issues. Funders are eager for opportunities to leverage federal and private funding to support durable, long-term solutions. The paper underscores the importance of building meaningful relationships with Tribal Nations as a foundational step toward effective investment in Indigenous-led stewardship, that not only protects ecosystems but also sustains Indigenous governance, knowledge systems, and lifeways. This research offers recommendations and examples to help address gaps in philanthropic engagement with Tribal- and Indigenous-led conservation. It includes resources for funders, Tribal leaders, and public sector partners to build stronger collaboration and develop long-term, trust-based partnerships. We hope this white paper serves as a practical guide to what is possible when philanthropy works in partnership with Tribal leadership alongside state and federal governments.

Tribal Co-Stewardship and Co-Management of U.S. Ocean and Marine Waters was prepared by: Raychelle Daniel, Marilyn Heiman, and Monte Mills with review and contributions from Lauren Divine, Natalie Landreth, Mike Levine, Violet Sage Walker, `Aulani Wilhem, and Erin Dougherty Lynch. The paper was also informed by the panelists at the October 2024 Biodiversity Funders Group Meeting. Three anonymous reviewers contributed.