Who We Are
The NCIAF is an Indigenous-led, non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of reconciliation in the agriculture industry and the creation of a national dialogue for Indigenous agriculture. We are pathfinders that are passionate about removing barriers and delivering comprehensive solutions to Indigenous Peoples and communities.
The NCIAF creates and maintains a necessary connection between the agriculture industry, government, and knowledge keepers to the Indigenous communities and peoples working to strengthen their food security and sovereignty; and enhance their role in helping to feed the world, while honouring their traditions, lands, and Mother Earth. The NCIAF will generate positive change by focusing on business acceleration, increasing access to knowledge, strengthening business planning and management practices, and increasing access to capital. The development of training and education programs for Indigenous communities, peoples, and leaders advances awareness of opportunities, policies, and planning. The NCIAF also supports the non-Indigenous agriculture industry to implement reconciliation endeavours within their organizations.
Our Purpose
- To galvanize a community of partners to support Indigenous Peoples and reignite their role in agriculture and food through knowledge sharing and supporting business creation, while honoring Indigenous values, lands, and Mother Earth.
- Advance reconciliation and building of bridges between Indigenous communities and other agriculture and food industry stakeholders to create a shared national vision for Indigenous agriculture.
- Support the development of Indigenous agriculture and food businesses.
- Build Indigenous capacity for agriculture through awareness of opportunities, knowledge exchange, and education and skills development.
Our Mission
To support and advocate for the growth and sustainability of Indigenous agriculture and food ways, ensuring the health and prosperity of Indigenous Peoples and their communities.
Our Vision
To empower Indigenous Peoples and communities through sustainable agriculture and food systems that honour traditional knowledge, promote food sovereignty, and foster economic development.
In Loving Memory of Adam Cameron Subject
We are heartbroken by the loss of our teammate, friend, and champion for youth, Adam Cameron Subject.
One of the things we will always remember about Adam was the way he spoke about the NCIAF. To him, NCIAF was more than just the National Circle for Indigenous Agriculture and Food — it represented who we are and how we operate every day. Adam described the NCIAF as the following:
N stood for Nurturing and Never saying "No" - always finding a way to support people and help move things forward.
C stood for Compassion — something Adam embodied every single day and recognized in every member of our team.
I stood for Innovation — because he believed our team was always looking for new and better ways to serve communities and create opportunities.
A stood for Adaptability — because change is constant, and our strength comes from our ability to pivot, learn, and grow together.
F stood for Family — because at the end of the day, we lean on one another, support one another, and show up for each other without question.
That was Adam. He lived these values every day. Adam, you will be deeply missed, but your legacy lives on through every youth you inspired, every life you touched, and every step we take together as the NCIAF family. We will carry you with us.