On November 12th, Pow Wow Pitch, a non-profit organization supporting emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, announced five technology grant recipients for young Indigenous entrepreneurs through the Tech-4-Youth program supported by Best Buy Canada.
In 2022, Pow Wow Pitch and Best Buy launched the Tech-4-Youth program, equipping young Indigenous entrepreneurs with essential technology to elevate their business ventures. As the primary partner for the Pow Wow Pitch Youth category, Best Buy fosters the growth of these aspiring leaders by providing mentorship to help them refine their one-minute pitches for a chance to win cash prizes.
The Tech-4-Youth program welcomed applications from Pow Wow Pitch Alumni aged 19 years and under, from across Canada, demonstrating Best Buy’s strong commitment to supporting each of their entrepreneurial journeys and nurturing a vibrant future where they can thrive. Their entrepreneurial ventures span a wide range of creative and educational fields, each deeply rooted in community impact. Each youth will be equipped with new technology to elevate their businesses, highlighting the diversity of Indigenous entrepreneurship in education, craftsmanship, digital media, and cultural preservation.
Meet the 2024 Tech-4-Youth 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 to inspire other youth by showing just how fun and easy 3D printing can be.
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.
“I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Best Buy for their generous support in providing technology to Indigenous youth,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “These tools empower our youth to bring their business visions to life. With Best Buy’s partnership with the Tech-4-Youth program, our young entrepreneurs now have the resources they need to thrive in today’s digital economy and continue their journeys with confidence and creativity. Congratulations to Simon, Cadence, Damon, Isabella, and Kashtin for being selected as this year’s Tech-4-Youth recipients! We are excited to see how each of you will leverage these tech grants to elevate your businesses and create meaningful impact in your communities.”
To watch the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Youth Semi-Finals, click here.