Best Buy Canada maintains a commitment to make a positive community impact through programs and partnerships that help bridge the digital divide and provide opportunities for youth. They strive to build brighter futures through technology, focusing on fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in all facets of their operations. Their current endeavours include enhancing opportunities for Indigenous youth across Canada via mentorship, technology grants, and direct technology experience.
To learn more about Best Buy’s community efforts, visit bestbuy.ca/socialimpact.
TECH 4 YOUTH GRANTS
In 2022, Pow Wow Pitch and Best Buy Canada launched the Tech-4-Youth program, offering essential technology to young Indigenous entrepreneurs. Indigenous youth entrepreneurs across Canada can submit a ‘Request for Tech’ to apply for the necessary technology to launch and operate their business. In 2024, Pow Wow Pitch and Best Buy Canada awarded 5 recipients of the Tech-4-Youth grants to Indigenous youth between 9 and 18 years of age.
MEET THE 2024 TECH-4-YOUTH GRANT RECIPIENTS
Simon Monteith, the Founder of Simon the Scientist from Opaskwayak Cree Nation, residing in Winnipeg, MB, provides YouTube online learning for kids, explaining science from an Indigenous perspective. Simon is receiving an AnkerMake M5 3D printer with filament, as well as a microscope with a built-in camera to support him with video production for his educational videos.
Cadence Cotter, Owner of Manes and Reins Equestrian Co., a citizen of the Métis Nation of Ontario and residing in Linwood, ON, provides custom products for both equines and equestrians. Cadence is receiving an Apple iPhone 15 and OtterBox phone case to enhance her ability to take orders, which typically arrive via text or phone calls.
Damon Martin, Owner of Nomad Prints from Haisla Nation, residing in Surrey, BC, is striving to launch a 3D printing business that will feature a YouTube channel showcasing the ease and fun of creating cool 3D printed items, which he plans to sell at craft fairs and kids’ entrepreneur events. Damon is receiving a AnkerMake M5 3D printer with filament and a Dell XPS laptop to support his venture in creating tutorial videos.
Isabella McBain-Nepton, Co-Owner of Carie McBain Creations and Supplies from Pekuakamiulnuatsh First Nation, residing in Ottawa, ON, is a business that sells bead supplies and beadwork online and at powwows. Isabella is receiving an Apple iPhone 15 and OtterBox phone case to take higher quality photos for their business, helping to showcase their intricate beadwork and supplies with greater detail.
Kashtin Delorme, Founder of KASHT2N PRODUCTIONS from Cowessess First Nation, residing in Melville, SK, provides photography and videography for events including powwows. Kashtin is receiving a Sony Alpha 7 Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera with a Lens Kit to help produce high quality work for current and future clients.
READ THE 2024 TECH 4 YOUTH GRANT ANNOUNCEMENT
