NCIAF and NAAAN Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Strengthen Agricultural Collaboration Across North America

The National Circle for Indigenous Agriculture and Food (NCIAF) and the North American Agricultural Advisory Network (NAAAN) are proud to announce a new partnership to advance national and tribal collaboration in agriculture throughout Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
This partnership, formalized in a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), represents a shared commitment to strengthening food sovereignty and empowering agricultural communities. Together, NCIAF and NAAAN will focus on providing technical assistance, advocating for shared priorities, sharing resources, improving funding access, and mentoring and engaging the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Inspired by their meeting at the Tri-National Accord of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture in October, both organizations are committed to supporting information sharing and agricultural communities across North America by fostering stronger connections.

"This partnership with NAAAN is a significant step forward not only for the National Circle for Indigenous Agriculture and Food, but for all Indigenous food sovereignty efforts across Turtle Island," said Kallie Wood, President and CEO of NCIAF. "By uniting our strengths, we can empower Indigenous communities to thrive in agriculture, amplify their voices in policy discussions, and ensure that traditional knowledge remains a cornerstone of sustainable practices across North America, the original trading routes of our ancestors."

Kerri Conway, Director of the NAAAN Secretariat added, “This partnership exemplifies the power of cross-border cooperation in addressing shared agricultural challenges and opportunities. Together we aim to inspire the next generation of leaders in agriculture to find new and innovative ways of working together by making a difference for our countries and agricultural communities.”

About NCIAF
The National Circle for Indigenous Agriculture and Food (NCIAF) is a non-profit organization, based in Canada, dedicated to accelerating Indigenous agricultural practices and enhancing food sovereignty among Indigenous communities. NCIAF provides resources, training, and support to advance Indigenous-led agricultural initiatives.

About NAAAN
The North American Agricultural Advisory Network (NAAAN) connects and fosters collaborations in agricultural advisory communities across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Through its membership in the Global Forum for Rural Advisory Services (GFRAS), NAAAN links with global networks to support knowledge sharing, learning, and advocacy in agricultural extension services. The NAAAN is hosted by the Colorado State University System.