Comprehensive research services grounded in community and collaboration

We actively engage in collaborative partnerships to gather stories and insights that lead to strategic decision-making and systems change.

  • Community-based assessments

    Using surveys, interviews, financial analysis, interactive focus groups, and spatial-asset mapping, we collect information collaboratively and respectfully to create a holistic picture of each community.

  • Market & feasibility studies

    We evaluate the cultural and economic viability of initiatives through in-depth data collection and analysis, visioning and listening sessions, case studies, and cost projections to guide strategic decision-making.

  • Participatory studies & analysis

    Our inclusive approach involves local individuals and organizations throughout the entire research process, ensuring active participation and alignment of goals with mission and vision from the outset.

  • Evaluative research

    Using a variety of research tools and mixed methods, we evaluate the effectiveness of programs and services and help measure their impact. This helps organizations understand what’s working and what can be improved, and informs responsive planning.

We help build a clear picture of your community, so that programs and services can be designed to address your specific needs and priorities.

3D rendering of community building. Young people are walking and talking on paths around the building.

Honoring lifeways, experiences, and identities, our work fosters:

  • Cultural self-determination

  • Workforce readiness

  • Housing access and equity

  • Business planning and improvement

  • Community and individual health and well-being

  • Arts enrichment

  • Financial education

  • Youth services

  • Food and agricultural sovereignty

  • Social justice

  • Tourism initiatives

Research team

  • Michael Brydge photo

    Michael Brydge

    RESEARCH DIRECTOR

  • Max Van Oostenburg photo

    Max Van Oostenburg

    ASSOCIATE RESEARCH DIRECTOR

  • Jackie Carter photo

    Jackie Carter

    ASSOCIATE RESEARCH DIRECTOR

  • Mairi Creedon photo

    Mairi Creedon

    SENIOR RESEARCH MANAGER

Our team uses a participatory, whole systems approach to support long-term development, combining experience and data to understand how an organization can improve and grow.

Featured projects

  • Buffalo grazing in green field with a blue sky and clouds above.

    Find Your Story: Texas Indigenous Data Sovereignty Study

    Texas Tribal Buffalo Project

    Learn more →

  • Close-up of farmer outside in a field carrying a bowl of green leafy vegetables.

    Food Systems Study: Exploring the Local Food Economy of the Oglála Lakhóta Oyáte

    Makoce Agriculture Development

    Learn more →

  • Professional woman working on a laptop inside a cafe.

    Building Capacity in Indigenous Finance: A Native CDFI Career Preparation Survey & Report

    NACDC Financial Services

    Learn more →

  • Large green field of short crops in the bright sun.

    CDFA Farm Equity Office Tribal Listening Sessions Report

    California Department of Food and Agriculture

    Learn more →

  • "Our work with Sweet Grass has helped us raise the voice of our neighbors who live challenging lives in an area that has been purposefully and historically ignored for generations."

    Julie Keel, Mountain T.O.P. 

  • "I know that you put a lot of heart and intent into your work up here and I just want to thank you. Most people will never see your efforts or how they impact the work but the contribution you are making will lead to transformative change for many."

    Nick Tilsen, Thunder Valley Community Development Corporation

  • "[Sweet Grass] has been very attentive to our needs not only with the survey but other components of our organization. [Their] staff is always available to assist and teach our staff about their programs when called upon which is greatly appreciated!"

    Izel Lopez, Texas Tribal Buffalo Project

  • "It was my pleasure working with you and your staff . . . in seeking ways to find justification and answers in how we need to move forward in providing housing opportunities for our community."

    Donovan Vicenti, Pueblo of Jemez Housing Authority

  • "Thank you for going above and beyond to help us meet our grant reporting deadline for the survey!!"

    Izel Lopez, Texas Tribal Buffalo Project

  • "Michael and team are great to work with. Capable of understanding the issues of indigenous communities and assisting in assessing much needed data in Indian country. They are willing to help train our staff so we can do the work ourselves in current and future projects."

    Lucille Contreras, Texas Tribal Buffalo Project

Ready to get started?