
Food Sovereignty
Food Sovereignty Initiative
Our Food Sovereignty Initiative is inspired by our Native youth and rooted in the cultural and traditional values of the Nakoda and Aaniiih people of the Fort Belknap Reservation. This initiative seeks to empower our community through sustainable practices and a deep connection to our land.
Guided by the principles of Generosity, Integrity, Humility, Wisdom, Respect, Courage, and Patience, we aim to cultivate a thriving food culture that honors our heritage. We believe that by embracing our traditional ways, we can foster resilience, promote healthy living, and ensure the availability of culturally relevant foods for future generations.
Through education, community engagement, and collaboration, we strive to reclaim our food systems and create opportunities for our community to grow, share, and celebrate food sovereignty.
Join us in our journey towards self-sufficiency and cultural revitalization!

Language Revitalization
Life’s Language Lodge: Revitalizing Our Languages
Life’s Language Lodge is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to the revitalization and growth of our Nakoda and Aaniiih languages. After facing nearly an entire era with few surviving fluent speakers, NAEDC is proud to have received the Ester Martinez grant from the U.S. Administration for Native Americans in 2019 to help create the first ever Aaniiih Nakoda language immersion nest "Life's Language Lodge".
Since then, we have not only met but exceeded every benchmark outlined in the grant. Our commitment to language preservation and revitalization has led to innovative programs and resources that support learners of all ages, fostering a vibrant community of Nakoda and Aaniiih speakers.
Join us in our mission to celebrate and sustain our languages for future generations!
Tourism
Guided Interpretive Tours at Fort Belknap
Experience the rich heritage of the Fort Belknap Reservation through our guided interpretive tours. We offer a variety of tours, including cultural, historical, scenic, educational, native games, and agricultural experiences—both on and off the Reservation. Visitors can choose from general tours or request specialized experiences tailored to their interests.
In addition to our tours, the tourism department offers fully furnished RV trailers and teepees for rent, providing you with a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of our land.
Exploring the Fort Belknap Reservation is a wonderful way for you and your family to connect with people from around the world, learn about our vibrant history and culture, and discover the rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes we cherish.
Be sure to visit the Aaniiih Nakoda Tours gift shop! Here, you’ll find unique souvenirs and handcrafted items that celebrate our culture and support local artisans.
Join us for an unforgettable experience that honors our heritage and showcases the beauty of our environment!

Social Enterprise Development
Community-Based Social Enterprises
We are dedicated to fostering community-based social enterprises that improve the lives of those living on the Fort Belknap Reservation. Our focus is on creating initiatives that benefit the entire community rather than private interests.
These enterprises serve as a powerful means to mobilize and empower community members, allowing them to take charge of their well-being and participate in economic activities that benefit everyone.
We provide support in expanding entrepreneurial initiatives, offering technical assistance to both community-based enterprises and individual entrepreneurs. Our goal is to cultivate sustainable practices that uplift our communities and create lasting positive change.
Join us in building a brighter future for the Fort Belknap Reservation through collaboration and innovation!

Indigenous Youth Leadership
Indigenous Youth Leadership Project
Our new Indigenous Youth Leadership Project is dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities for Native youth on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation. We aim to empower our youth by encouraging them to engage with traditional ecological knowledge (TEK), cultural STEM activities, learn the Aaniiih and Nakoda languages, and participate in culturally rooted activities.
Through this project, we offer a variety of learning experiences, including arts and crafts such as sewing, beading, drum making, and regalia making. Participants will also have the chance to engage in youth powwows, youth mentorship, traditional native games and traditional customs, such as sweat ceremonies, fostering intergenerational knowledge transfer.
We are committed to nurturing the unique needs of our youth to support their growth and help them forge strong partnerships with their peers and the community. Together, we can build a vibrant future that honors our heritage and empowers the next seven generations.

Artists’ Gallery
Welcome to Our Gift Shop
Our gift shop serves as a vibrant platform for local entrepreneurs, artists, and skilled artisans to showcase their work and products. We are committed to expanding our online presence to enhance marketing opportunities for our community.
Currently, our selection includes a diverse range of items, such as:
- Paintings and sculptures
- Limited edition prints and posters
- Handmade jewelry
- Clothing and blankets
- Arts and crafts materials
- Kitchen items and decor
- Greeting cards and much more
By supporting our gift shop, you not only find unique and meaningful products but also contribute to the growth and sustainability of our local artisans and community. Explore our offerings and celebrate the creativity of our people!