2023 Alaska Native Organization Co-Management Funding Program

Eligible applicants are limited to Tribally-Authorized Alaska Native Organizations (ANOs) with an existing marine mammal agreement for co-management with NMFS. In a case where an ANO has authorized another entity to serve as the fiduciary agent of the organization a copy of the agreement between the ANO and fiduciary agent must be provided with the application. This agreement must outline a thorough description of the relationship and responsibilities of both parties. The ANO will be listed as the lead entity/organization on the application as reflected in the agreement. Any ANO not holding an existing agreement for co-management with NMFS may collaborate with and be listed on the application as a sub-recipient under an eligible applicant. The legal status of the ANO must be identified (see verification below) and a copy of the sub-recipient agreement between the ANO and sub-recipient must be provided with the application. This agreement must outline a thorough description of the relationship and responsibilities of both parties. Eligibility must be met at the time of application. Acceptable verification of ANO legal status: 1)Non-Profit – In cases where the ANO board is a registered non-profit, the following is acceptable: (a)Proof that the Internal Revenue Service currently recognizes the applicant or an organization to which contributions are tax deductible under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code; (b) A statement from a State taxing body or the State Attorney General certifying that: i. The organization is a nonprofit organization within the State; and ii. No part of its net earnings may lawfully benefit any private or shareholder or individual. (c)A certified copy of the applicant’s certificate of incorporation or similar document if it clearly establishes the non profit status of the applicant. 2) Tribal Government – In cases where a tribal government directly holds a co-management agreement with NOAA, a letter from an authorized tribal representative certifying this status is acceptable.

Kristin Cieciel Program Officer Phone: (907) 586-7273 Mailing Address: PO Box 21668, Juneau Alaska 99802-1668 (USPS); 709 9th Street, Suite 323A, Juneau Alaska 99801 (FedEx/UPS).