Two of the fellowships are awarded to enrolled tribal members, First- and Second-Line Descendants of the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohican Indians in recognition of the peoples on whose homelands Forge Project is situated and to encourage site-specific and relational projects. Each Forge Project Fellow receives a total of $25,000 toward their practice and will have full access to the Forge Project site, libraries, and lending collection of living Indigenous artists during a residency stay of up to three weeks. First- and Second-Line Descendants must secure a Descendant Verification Letter issued by SMC Enrollment Department.

The Forge Project space consists of two structures designed by Ai Weiwei in collaboration with HHF Architects. The larger of the two buildings consists of four equal-sized boxes, where Forge Project hosts its public programming, including special-topic talks with Fellows. Parallel to the main building is a Y-shaped building; the upper floor features a circular skylight that illuminates a central art gallery, and houses a fluid living and studio space for Fellows.

Fellows have the opportunity to present their work to the local Forge Project audience on site as well as a wider international audience via social media. Fellows have the opportunity to work one-on-one with Director of Indigenous Programs and Relationality, Sarah Biscarra Dilley (yak titʸutitʸu yak tiłhini [Northern Chumash]) and Public and Community Programs Coordinator, Robbie Wing (Cherokee Nation) to develop public programming, to make connections and build contacts, and for support or mentorship during their stay.