Pow Wow Pitch, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs, is proud to announce the renewal of its partnership with Mastercard in Canada for the fourth year in a row, as a co-presenting partner through 2025. This continued collaboration will maintain efforts to inspire and equip Indigenous entrepreneurs with the tools, resources, and opportunities needed to thrive in a digital economy.
“Empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs and fostering economic development within Indigenous communities aligns with our mission to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone across Canada,” said Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs & Policy and Stakeholder Engagement. “We are proud to renew our partnership with Pow Wow Pitch by continuing to collaborate and support Indigenous entrepreneurship.”
Mastercard first partnered with Pow Wow Pitch as a co-presenting sponsor in 2022, marking their support to Indigenous entrepreneurship. Since then, Mastercard’s support has played a crucial role in supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs as they tackle the challenges of launching and growing their businesses.
Through this partnership, Mastercard actively supports Pow Wow Pitch in various capacities. Mastercard team members, including software, engineers, data scientists, marketers, management consultants, and government affairs experts, serve as virtual mentors and judges and share their knowledge and expertise with Indigenous entrepreneurs. Additionally, Jennifer M. Sloan enhances the partnership by serving on the Pow Wow Pitch Advisory Council.
“Our growing partnership with Mastercard is invaluable and deeply impactful,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “We cherish when sponsors evolve into true partners, and Mastercard has embodied this for Pow Wow Pitch. Together, we have grown, and I am excited to see how our collaboration will continue to deepen as we drive our mission forward and build capacity within Indigenous communities. With a shared vision, aligned values, and a steadfast commitment to empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs, this partnership exemplifies the power of collaboration and shared leadership as we work together to foster economic empowerment for generations to come.”
Mastercard’s continued support of Pow Wow Pitch extends beyond mentorship and financial support. Through initiatives like Mastercard Changeworks™, the company provides crucial support for technology, digital adoption, and cybersecurity training to the organization. Additionally, Mastercard will present two awards at the 2025 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, further enhancing the ecosystem by celebrating Indigenous entrepreneurship.
Through its support of Pow Wow Pitch and investment in its long-term success, Mastercard is helping power the Canadian economy and empower people across Canada by supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs. This partnership stands as a powerful example of how corporate organizations can support Indigenous entrepreneurship to level the economic playing field and drive Canada’s future prosperity.
About Pow Wow Pitch
Pow Wow Pitch is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting and funding early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island, with the co-presenting support of Mastercard and RBC. Our vision is to create a world where Indigenous entrepreneurs thrive, feeling supported, safe, and encouraged to develop their ideas and build businesses that create a positive cycle of growth. With a mission to provide resources and mentorship, we empower Indigenous entrepreneurs while amplifying their stories to inspire future generations and foster a more inclusive world.
For more information, visit powwowpitch.org.
About Mastercard (NYSE: MA)
Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re building a sustainable economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help
For media inquiries, please contact:
Helena Wade, Manager, Communications
Mastercard
helena.wade@mastercard.com