The Indigenous Prairie Bison Initiative is creating new opportunities for Indigenous communities across the Prairies by strengthening skills, supporting producers, and expanding access to land-based learning.
The National Circle for Indigenous Agriculture and Food (NCIAF) has been chosen as a key delivery partner and will receive $2 million over three years to guide capacity building, mentorship, and training programs.
The initiative is funded through the Strategic Partnership Initiative, which brings together federal partners to support Indigenous-led economic development. The goal is to help communities participate more fully in bison ranching while building sustainable operations rooted in cultural knowledge and local priorities.
“The return of the buffalo is more than an agricultural opportunity—it is a healing opportunity,” said Kallie Wood, President and CEO, National Circle for Indigenous Agriculture and Food. “Indigenous Peoples have always held deep relationships with the buffalo as teachers, providers, and protectors. This initiative ensures that communities have the tools, knowledge, and partnerships needed to build sustainable bison herds for food sovereignty, cultural revitalization, and economic independence.”
“The NCIAF is honoured to help lead this work alongside our federal partners and, most importantly, with the communities who have asked for this support.”
As a coordinating partner, the NCIAF will lead several supports to help emerging and existing producers. These include training and mentorship programs, business planning tools, and feasibility assessments designed to fit community needs. The initiative will also offer land-based learning opportunities for youth, Elders, and producers so that cultural teachings remain central to the growth of the bison economy.
Knowledge-sharing will be an important part of the program. A Prairie-wide Learning Herd Network will connect producers, experts, lenders, and technical advisors. Communities will also gain access to funding pathways and technical guidance to strengthen long-term herd management and operational planning.
Over the next three years, this partnership among Indigenous communities, federal departments, scientific partners, and conservation leaders will help build a culturally grounded bison economy across Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta. The initiative aims to support food sovereignty, cultural revitalization, and sustainable economic independence for Indigenous producers across the Prairie region.