The Cherokee Preservation Foundation in Cherokee, North Carolina, has announced nineteen grants totaling more than $2 million in support of cultural preservation, economic development, job creation, and environmental preservation.

Established in 2000 as part of the Second Amendment to the Tribal-State Compact between the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) and the State of North Carolina, the Cherokee Preservation Foundation is funded by gaming revenues generated by the tribe. Since its inception, the foundation has awarded 707 grants totaling nearly $56 million for EBCI and regional projects and programs that address cultural preservation, economic development, job creation, and environmental sustainability.

Recipients in this funding round include the Greater Cherokee Tourism Council, which was awarded a grant to enhance its marketing efforts, and Cherokee High School, which received funding for its basket-making and pottery programs. In addition, funds will be used to support the development of a new Haywood County Youth Council and the third phase of a project to improve the appearance and functionality of streets in downtown Cherokee.