Native American tribes are an integral part of Washington state. Tribes contribute enormously to Washington’s overall economy, accounting for $6.6 billion in gross state product in 2020. Tribes generously support local communities, too, contributing nearly $30 million annually in philanthropic and other gifts. However, one of our most important, future-focused investments is in our people and supporting their dreams through education.
At the Washington Indian Gaming Association (WIGA), we know that education unlocks opportunities. Today’s investments in education will enrich and advance students’ lives and create lasting benefits for tribes tomorrow.
This commitment drives the WIGA Scholarship Program. WIGA provides scholarships to Native American and Alaska Native students pursuing degrees at community and technical colleges, four-year colleges, or post-graduate and professional schools. Awards generally range from $900 to $3,000 in unrestricted grants for each academic year.
Since its inception in 2006, the WIGA Scholarship Program has awarded over $1.2 million to hundreds of tribal members across Washington. In the 2024-25 academic year alone, we awarded more than $150,000 to 53 students, our biggest year yet. Our program continues to grow. In September 2024, our annual gala and auction at the Kalispel Tribe of Indians’ Northern Quest Casino raised $310,000 to support Native American students pursuing opportunities in higher education.
WIGA scholarships have a profound impact on recipients’ lives. For example, Amber Penn-Roco, a member of the Chehalis Tribe who experienced financial insecurity and homelessness as a child, is now a successful attorney.
“I received the WIGA scholarship at the perfect time,” Amber said. “In my third year of law school, all my scholarships ran out. I was forced to contemplate whether I could afford to finish my law degree. Receiving the scholarship funds from WIGA meant I could afford to focus on my education and not be distracted with wondering how I was going to be able to pay my bills or buy my textbooks.”
Amber is now a partner at an Indigenous rights law firm and a mother of two. Stories like hers deepen our commitment to supporting tribal students. They are the future of Indian Country.
The scholarship application window for the 2025-26 school year opens next March. Applicants must be enrolled members of one of Washington’s 29 federally recognized tribes or American Indian/Alaska Native students enrolled in a federally recognized tribe who are attending or plan to attend a higher education institution in Washington state.
For details, visit the scholarships page on our website. For questions regarding applications or to support this program, please contact WIGA Deputy Director Rosina DePoe at deputy@washingtonindiangaming.org.
