May 3, 2023 | Pow Wow Pitch, a grassroots initiative for Indigenous entrepreneurs, has announced the opening of applications and nominations for the 3rd Annual Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards.
The awards aim to celebrate the excellence and outstanding achievement of Indigenous entrepreneurship and recognize Indigenous entrepreneurs and Indigenous-owned businesses across Canada.
The Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards are presented in partnership with RBC, Shopify and Mastercard, with the support of the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada and Export Development Canada.
To be eligible for the awards, applicants must be Indigenous entrepreneurs who have been operating their businesses for at least three years and reside in Canada.
Applications and nominations close on June 21, 2023, and winners will be announced and celebrated during a digitally broadcast awards presentation on November 3, 2023.
Pow Wow Pitch Founder Sunshine Tenasco said, “The Awards are our opportunity to honour the wisdom, love, respect, bravery, honesty, humility and truth of the entrepreneurial icons of our generation, express our gratitude and create a platform to tell their stories of resilience and reconciliation through entrepreneurship.”
“The contribution of Indigenous entrepreneurs to our economy and communities is immeasurable,” said Michael Ferencich, Senior Vice President, Business Financial Services, RBC. “Through our collaboration and support for the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, we aim to break down barriers and create more opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurship while inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.”
“Through our partnership with Pow Wow Pitch and support of the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, Shopify is proud to celebrate and amplify the exceptional talent and resilience of Indigenous entrepreneurs,” said Kyle St-Amour-Brennan, Build Native Indigenous Entrepreneurship Program Manager at Shopify. “Embracing the strength of our ancestral wisdom, Indigenous entrepreneurs weave a vibrant tapestry of innovation, resilience, and sustainable prosperity for future generations.These awards showcase the power of Indigenous entrepreneurship to drive economic growth, social impact, and cultural celebration. We are honoured to be part of this movement.”
Overall, the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards aim to celebrate Indigenous entrepreneurship, empower Indigenous entrepreneurs, and support the growth and success of Indigenous businesses. To apply or nominate, visit powwowpitch.org/awards.