Our Story

Taza is a story of the past and future, of culture and nature, of friendship and connection. It’s a story for all of us.

our story:

Be part of something wondrous

The story of Taza begins with the land, sky and stars—and the idea they inspired. More than 50 years ago, Tsuut’ina leaders began to reimagine their people’s potential for economic prosperity. Today, this vision has a clear shape: Taza is creating three interconnected community villages in Tsuut’ina Nation, where Calgary and the foothills meet.

This partnership between the Tsuut’ina Nation and Canadian real estate developer Canderel will create innovative urban villages that welcome everyone, shaped by a deep connection to the land. It’s a truly progressive partnership, and it’s creating a way of life that can only exist in this remarkable place.

Learn About Tsuut’ina Nation

Learn About Canderel

Three new community villages

Taza is creating three new community villages on 1,200 acres of Tsuut’ina Nation land: Taza Park, Buffalo Run and The Crossing. It will be one of the largest First Nation developments in North America. Bordered by Tsuut’ina Trail (the Southwest Calgary Ring Road) and the breathtaking Alberta foothills, each village has its own unique charm and character, and each is part of a shared vision for a deeply connected way of life. Here in Taza, nature and culture come together to create a unique place where everyone can live, gather and thrive.

see what taza is building

Taza: Timeline of a vision

Setting the foundation for one of the largest Indigenous-driven development projects in North America didn’t happen overnight. The idea for economic prosperity began with Tsuut’ina leaders more than 50 years ago. Today, that idea has evolved into a powerful partnership rooted in respect, cooperation and innovation—and above all, passion. Taza has been a vision for generations and an active project for years, and this is only the beginning.

see the taza timeline

Our pillars

Taza embodies and expresses Tsuut’ina culture and principles. When designing each of our community  villages—from their built form to their unique spirit—we apply these four pillars.

Community and Connectivity

Gúdìsnùd-di ùwa Átłà dít’iyí

In the spirit of genuine partnership: After years of searching for the right strategic partner, Tsuut’ina leaders found an ally in Canderel. Together, the Nation and the developer formed a shared vision for the community villages, based on the values of inclusion, integrity and collaboration. As Taza, they will shape the land while honouring its history, weave a social and cultural fabric that embraces tradition and modernity, and build a future where prosperity and sustainability go hand in hand.

Cultural Influences

Gunìnishà ìsíla Gutsìk’ats’idiyá-hí

United by resilience:United by resilience: Tsuut’ina Nation begins at the edge of Calgary’s southwest quadrant, but we share more than a border. Calgary is known for its entrepreneurial spirit and optimism. So is Tsuut’ina. Calgary respects leadership, innovation and resilience, and Tsuut’ina epitomizes these strengths. As Taza, we have a united vision for the future, informed by ancestral wisdom, shaped by rich cultural traditions and focused on moving forward together.

Nature and Connection to the Land

Mìsgùsʔóní ùwa Nìsk’a Àdàdít’iyí

Development with intention: The Tsuut’ina people have deep reverence for the land, and this connection to the natural world is at the heart of Taza. It’s in the way we approach urban planning, how we define ESG (environmental, social and governance) practices, and why we incorporate sustainability best practices and follow development laws and civic procedures. All our decisions are shaped by the Tsuut’ina principle of taking only what’s needed. In this way, we create adaptable communities that will meet environmental, social and economic needs for generations to come.

Economic Diversity

Ástoó-gù Didilí Nàts’iyiní-hí

Paving the way for prosperity: Through purposeful development, investment and revitalization, Taza is a socioeconomic driver. We’re realizing the Tsuut’ina vision to build long-term prosperity for the Nation while creating opportunities and advantages for all who make their lives and livings here—from residents and guests to investors, entrepreneurs and businesses. An efficient development approval process and competitive property taxation are just a couple of ways Taza acts as a beacon for economic growth.

Our leadership: driven by passion, united in partnership

Taza is more than a development—it’s about building a legacy. To succeed, we need a team of industry and Indigenous leaders with deep expertise and experience. We need mutual respect, shared values and a spirit of collaboration. Our leadership team brings all that, and more.

meet the leadership team

Our vision is guided by a focus on fostering togetherness and a unique collective experience while nurturing the rich history and ingrained connection to the legacy and the land.

Taza’s vision

It takes a village

A community of community builders

Taza creates opportunities and supports lasting prosperity for the Tsuut’ina Nation and our partners, communities and industry sectors. In all our relationships and interactions, we consider it our responsibility (and our joy) to make positive contributions that enhance resiliency and well-being.

see how taza gives back