The Pow Wow Pitch Alumni Network is a vibrant community of Indigenous entrepreneurs who have participated in the Pow Wow Pitch program. Together, these alumni collaborate with Pow Wow Pitch to empower the next generation of Indigenous entrepreneurs by sharing their knowledge, experiences, and resources. The Pow Wow Pitch Alumni Network is evolving into a thriving, self-sufficient community, driven by Alumni who join us as partners and contribute to the Alumni Fund at Pow Wow Market.
"By sharing and combining resources, our generation can do more good things for future generations."
- Matthew Nahdee, Board Director of Pow Wow Pitch & Alumni Champion
Alumni Fund
The Alumni Fund is an integral part of Pow Wow Market, with all featured brands pledging 15% of their sales on the marketplace back into the fund. Each year, the fund is reinvested into Pow Wow Pitch programs, ensuring that the success of Indigenous entrepreneurs extends beyond your own businesses, fueling the growth of emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs.
Alumni Collaborations
Pow Wow Pitch has collaborated and supported Alumni throughout our programming from artists and designers to apparel and media production. Developing opportunities for Alumni to shine is what makes our community a continued celebration of Indigenous entrepreneurship from first time pitcher to esteemed Alumni judge or collaborator. We are proud to integrate Alumni participation into our Pitch Competition, Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, Pow Wow Pitch Box, and the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast.
The Alumni Network connects you not only to Pow Wow Pitch, but from entrepreneur to entrepreneur. We encourage all Alumni to use Pow Wow Pitch as a way to meet new entrepreneurs to collaborate, share ideas, and feel connected on your journeys. Alumni-led collaborations like Kejic Productions capturing the spirit of Pow Wow Pitch through video, and creative artist collaborations such as Bastien Industries and Sky-Eagle Creations, are shining examples of the remarkable talent within our community. We’re incredibly proud to celebrate these standouts who exemplify creativity and community spirit.
Alumni Prizes
In 2021, we were able to fully integrate a dedicated Alumni Prize of $5,000 into our Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale as a testament to the importance of celebrating community-led accomplishments and recognition.
In 2024, the Alumni Choice Semi-Final winner, Simon Monteith, Founder of Simon The Scientist from Opaskwayak Cree Nation, MB, was selected by a diverse panel of Alumni judges consisting of Cece Meadows of Prados Beauty, Trisha Pitura of MINI TIPI, Bernice Clark of Uasau Soaps, Anthony Wingham of Nuez Acres, and Alana Cook of Walking Like Warriors. He received $1,000 and advanced to the 2024 Grand Finale. Also in 2024, the Alumni Choice Winner of $5,000 and presented by Ashley Michel of 4 Generations Creations was Lisa Vicaire, Founder of Algonquin Acres from Timiskaming First Nation, QC.
This achievement by the Pow Wow Pitch Alumni Network serves as an inspiring example of how we can unite and grow Indigenous entrepreneurship.
Join the Alumni Network
All Indigenous entrepreneurs who have pitched online or in-person for Pow Wow Pitch in any year are welcome to join us.
Joining the Pow Wow Pitch Alumni Network is an opportunity to give back and access exclusive benefits. By joining, you'll have the chance to be featured on Pow Wow Market, apply to be featured in the Pow Wow Pitch Box, qualify to be a welcomed guest on the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, and you'll also gain access to promotional opportunities for growth.
Ready to join us? Learn more about how you can pitch at powwowpitch.org/pitch.
Already an Alumni and want to connect with Pow Wow Pitch or a fellow Alumni? Contact us at hello@powwowpitch.org.