Remember last year when we launched the 7000 Languages Project to bring our world-class web and mobile technology to the world’s other 7000 languages? Today, we’re excited to announce the launch of the Doyon Foundation 7000 Partnership, the latest initiative of the 7000 Languages Project.

Though we may be donating our technology for this project, the passion and expertise truly comes from the folks at the Doyon Foundation, a private non-profit that works to preserve and strengthen language and culture in the Doyon region. Through this partnership, we hope to create cutting-edge teaching and learning materials for the Athabascan languages of Alaska’s Doyon region, which covers approximately 12.5 million acres of the Alaskan Interior.

“Providing cultural opportunities and a strong demonstration of Native traditional language and culture is at the core of Doyon Foundation’s mission and vision,” said Doris Miller, Foundation executive director. “This partnership will enable us to make significant strides toward the revitalization of our Native languages, which is critical for their survival.”

There are nine Athabascan languages in the Doyon region: Benhti Kenaga’ (Tanana), Deg Xinag, Denaakk’e (Koyukon), Denak’i (Upper Kuskokwim), Dinjii Zhuh K’yaa (Gwich’in), Han, Holikachuk, Tanacross, and Née’ aaneegn’ (Upper Tanana). We will begin by focusing on one of two of these languages, later expanding to encompass all nine.

Want to learn more about the great folks at the Doyon Foundation? Connect with them on Facebook! Want to learn more about the 7000 Languages Project, or apply as a project partner? Connect with us!