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Breaking Ground
Harnessing Sovereignty in Pursuit of Nation Building
Get ready to be part of an exciting experience at NADC’s 15th Annual Conference, where nation-building takes center stage through economic growth and community development. This year, we’re bringing back the energy, knowledge, and networking opportunities that have defined our past conferences, with even more to look forward to.
What is the Breaking Ground Conference?
Attendees can expect a robust agenda filled with one-on-one government matchmaking opportunities, business development sessions, an industry trade show, and an artisan market.
Additionally, the conference provides a platform for networking with key industry stakeholders, learning from experts, and accessing resources that support health and wellness strategies.
This gathering is not just a conference, but a celebration of culture, innovation, and collective progress, with diverse sessions fostering the development of supportive business environments on reservations and beyond.
It’s an essential destination for tribal leaders, entrepreneurs, and organizations committed to making a difference in the economic landscape of Native communities.
Strategy without tactics is the slowest route to victory. Tactics without strategy is the noise before defeat.
What to Expect:
Dynamic Sessions and Workshops:
Engage with thought leaders and innovators as they share insights on creating supportive business environments, leveraging public and private resources for strategic development, and driving economic and community initiatives forward.
One-on-One Business & Government:
Business Development Opportunities:
Immerse yourself in sessions dedicated to refining your business strategies and identifying new avenues for growth.
Industry Trade Show:
Discover the latest trends, products, and services as you walk through an expansive showcase of industry-leading companies and entrepreneurs.
Artisan Market:
Celebrate the rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship within our Native American community with unique offerings from a diverse array of artisans.
Networking Opportunities:
Connect with peers, potential collaborators, and industry veterans in various networking settings designed to spark conversation and collaboration.
A Call For Presenters:
Share Your Expertise
The Breaking Ground Conference is seeking dynamic presenters who are passionate about economic development, healthcare, and procurement within the Native American community. If you have innovative ideas, success stories, or valuable insights that can contribute to the growth and success of Native communities, we invite you to submit a proposal to present at our upcoming conference.
- Innovative economic strategies and best practices
- Success stories of business growth and development on reservations
- Cutting-edge healthcare initiatives that serve our communities
- Effective procurement methods and resources
- Sustainable community development projects
- Platform to showcase your expertise to a dedicated and influential audience
- Opportunities to connect with other thought leaders and policymakers
- Enhance your professional influence and expand your network
- Contribute to meaningful change and progress in the Native American Community
If you’re interested in making an impact and sharing your knowledge, please contact us for more information on how to apply. Together, we can create a diverse and enriching experience for all participants.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Past Conferences
Event Details
Big Sky Native ECon 2025: The Art of Action; August 5–7, 2025 | DoubleTree Hotel, Billings, MT
Join us for three powerful days of strategy, creativity, and community at the 16th Annual Big Sky Native ECon Conference, hosted by the Native American Development Corporation (NADC). This year’s theme—“The Art of Action”—calls Indigenous leaders, entrepreneurs, artists, and changemakers to lead boldly, build collaboratively, and move with purpose toward a thriving future for Indian Country.
About Big Sky Native ECon 2025
Big Sky Native ECon 2025 is where vision meets momentum. Presented by the Native American Development Corporation (NADC), this year’s conference will be held August 5–7 at the DoubleTree Hotel in downtown Billings, Montana. As we mark the 16th year of this vital gathering, our theme—“The Art of Action”—invites us to lead with clarity, creativity, and courage.
Inspired by the timeless strategy of The Art of War, this theme reimagines bold movement through an Indigenous lens: where resilience, relationship-building, and innovation drive long-term impact. It’s a call to not just plan—but to act. To not just imagine—but to implement.
Over the course of three days, Big Sky Native ECon will bring together tribal leaders, Native-owned businesses, creative professionals, procurement specialists, and community advocates from across the Rocky Mountain and Great Plains regions. Participants can expect:
- Insightful keynote speakers
- Engaging breakout sessions
- A dynamic Native Art Market and Industry Tradeshow
- Networking receptions that celebrate Indigenous culture and entrepreneurship
With 150–200 attendees anticipated, this is more than a conference—it’s a platform for transformation. Whether you’re launching a business, expanding your network, or advancing economic development in your community, Big Sky Native ECon is your opportunity to turn strategy into action.
And new this year: Entrepreneur Day, a focused networking event tailored for creative professionals and procurement-driven businesses.
We’re excited to welcome you to Billings for three days of inspiration, learning, and purposeful movement. Let’s take action—together.
Entrepreneur Day | Tuesday, August 5, 2025 | 1–5 PM (MST) | DoubleTree Hotel, Billings, MT
Free & open to the public (please register with the Entrepreneur Day ticket: https://whova.com/portal/registration/4zG5@AB2bREk7c9zreb6/ )
Kick off Big Sky Native ECon 2025 with Entrepreneur Day—an afternoon of high-impact, low-pressure matchmaking built for Indigenous artists, creatives, Native-owned businesses, and buyers.
This unique event features two focused tracks:
- Creative Industry Matchmaking – Connect Indigenous artists and entrepreneurs with galleries, curators, tourism orgs, and buyers.
- Business Matchmaking – Pair Native-owned businesses with procurement professionals, agencies, and corporate buyers.
You’ll engage in curated, one-on-one meetings—designed to spark real-world partnerships and opportunities. Authentic, productive conversations that move you forward.
Whether you’re here for Entrepreneur Day only or joining the full conference, this is your launchpad for action.