Pow Wow Pitch Box set to feature fourteen products from Indigenous entrepreneurs from across Turtle Island
Pow Wow Pitch, an Indigenous-led non-profit organization that empowers and supports Indigenous entrepreneurs, is proud to present this year’s Pow Wow Pitch Box in partnership with RBC, Shopify and Mastercard, and in collaboration with Canada Post and Indigenous Prosperity Foundation. The contents of the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Box, featuring fourteen selected products and digital experiences from Indigenous entrepreneurs, has a market value of over $250.
Pow Wow Pitch provides emerging Indigenous-owned businesses with the opportunity to gain exposure and recognition, and access support, mentorship and funding to take their business to the next level. The Pow Wow Pitch Box is a collaborative initiative of Pow Wow Pitch to procure products from Indigenous businesses to support and provide a platform for the entrepreneurs to reach hundreds of new customers.
This year, Pow Wow Pitch has featured fourteen products and digital experiences spanning from bath, body, and stationary, to apparel, home, and food products. In addition, the box is also presented with art from Indigenous artists: Steven Paul Judd’s ‘All My Relations’ mosaic piece and Tenille K. Campbell’s ‘What If’ poem written for Indigenous entrepreneurs.
Spotlight on this year’s Pow Wow Pitch Box products:
Limited Edition Aaniin Bubble Scarf & Beanie
From aaniin retail Inc., founded by Chelsee Pettit from Aamjiwnaang First Nation, and in collaboration with Pow Wow Pitch, this limited edition bubble scarf and beanie hat features yellow and purple colours inspired by the ‘All My Relations’ art piece from Steven Paul Judd and Anishinaabemowin syllabics for the word “aaniin”. Stay warm for the cooler seasons with this matching set that is sure to spark any conversation with “Aaniin” (hello)!
“aaniin is honoured to collaborate with Pow Wow Pitch to bring you this limited edition set,” shared Chelsee Pettit, Founder of aaniin retail Inc. “We hope you love it, and we’re grateful to Pow Wow Pitch for their ongoing support of small businesses.”
‘Amplify Indigenous Voices’ Holographic Sticker
From 4 Generations Creations, founded by Ashley Michel, a Secwepemc mother from Kamloops, BC and 2023 Pow Wow Pitch Winner, the holographic sticker is approximately 4 inches and is perfect to add to your belongings and display your support of Indigenous peoples and communities. Featuring the powerful message ‘Amplify Indigenous Voices,’ this sticker is a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and serves as a way to honour and celebrate Indigenous peoples and their voices. Made with high-quality vinyl, this holographic sticker is waterproof, durable and long-lasting, ensuring that its minimalist yet powerful message will stay visible for years to come.
Prados Beauty X SPJ OG Highlight Palette
From Prados Beauty, founded by Cece Meadows, a Xicana and Indigena woman from Las Cruces, New Mexico, this highlight palette is sure to light up any look. Embrace your inner glow with the Prados Beauty x Steven Paul Judd OG Highlight Palette. This palette features four universally flattering, shimmering gold shades and a pink shade that delivers buildable radiance to all skin tones. The blendable, vegan formula is easy to apply and creates a gorgeous, long-lasting highlighted look.
‘nedi nezu (Good Medicine)’ Poems
Written by Tenille K. Campbell, a Dené and Métis author and photographer from English River First Nation, explores the beautiful space that being a sensual Indigenous woman creates. This poetry collection doesn’t shy away from depicting the gorgeous diversity surrounding the tantalizing laughter of aunties telling stories. Dive into this poetry book and immerse yourself in a sensual exploration of Indigenous culture, irresistibly drawing anyone enchanted by the allure of dating and relationships.
Sagamité Watso Soup
From Sagamité Watso, founded by Jacques T. Watso, the traditional soup from Abenaki culinary heritage of Odanak. This soup mix is made from 9 varieties of beans, hominy corn, spices, and dehydrated vegetables. This staple is good to eat during the colder seasons and serves as a hearty and comforting soup that can pair well with any meat choice to enhance the taste. Enjoy the nutritious blend of Abenaki First Nation-style traditional soup and warm your taste buds.
Whitefish Moon Bear Air Freshener
From Tendesi Air Fresheners, co-founded by sisters Drew and Jennifer Tenasco from Kitigan Zibi Anishinaabeg, the Whitefish Moon Bear Air Freshener features a fresh forest scent to elevate and brighten any indoor or car space. Designed by Drew Tenasco, the air freshener displays gorgeous Anishinaabe art. Add a touch of Indigenous art into your space with the natural scents from Mother Earth with this air freshener.
Breathe Easy Soy Candle
From Ojibway Natural, founded by Nangoons Wabegijig from Ketagauseebee (Garden River) First Nation, the soy candles are hand poured and scented with lavender, eucalyptus, and peppermint essential oils. This blend is excellent for relaxation while naturally clearing airways and alleviating symptoms of cough, cold, and asthma.
Pecan Nourishing Body Scrub
From Nuez Acres, co-founded by Anthony Wingham from the Métis Nation of British Columbia and his partner Nancy Wingham, the Pecan Nourishing Body Scrub offers deep exfoliation to reveal softer, more luminous skin. Nuez Acres’ formula uses expeller-pressed pecans to gently exfoliate and encourage new cell growth, while a blend of hydrating lemon and lavender oils rejuvenates your skin’s natural glow. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation and self-care with their Pecan Nourishing Body Scrub, and experience the ultimate in skincare luxury.
Boujee Native Lip Balm
From Sweetgrass Soap, owned by Francesca Amine from Lac Seul First Nation, this Boujee Native Lip Pointing Grease Lip Balm will nourish and protect your lips with the power of nature. Crafted using select oils and butters and added vitamin E, this premium lip balm will leave your lips moisturized and tasting like pineapples and mangos.
Wood Eagle Keychain
From E3 Apparel, founded by Conlin McDonald from Muskeg Lake Cree Nation, this keychain features a laser printed design of an eagle and the Cree syllabic word for ‘eagle’ on a wooden coin. E3 Apparel is an initiative to promote the relearning of the Cree language through apparel. Start a conversation wherever you go with this unique eagle design.
‘Coureurs des Bois’ Birch Bark Coffee
From Birch Bark Coffee Co., founded by Mark Marsolais-Nahwegahbow from Whitefish River First Nation, this blend of coffee is inspired by the birch trees that surround his community. Indulge in the unique, rich, and fruity flavours of ‘Coureurs des Bois’ (Wooded Runners) whole bean medium roast coffee, where every sip offers a taste that brings you back to Mother Earth and the land that inspired the coffee bean.
Pow Wow Pitch Box recipients will receive special access to three digital experiences from the following Pow Wow Pitch Alumni:
Powwow Experience
From Marmar Media, founded by Marlon Weekusk from Onion Lake Cree Nation, this video shares the rich Indigenous culture, food, dance, and celebration that happens at powwows. It offers an immersive glimpse into the vibrant traditions and communal spirit that defines these gatherings, and invites viewers to experience the joy and unity that comes with these cultural celebrations.
Documentary Film
From Reel Indian Pictures, co-founder Ramona Emerson from Tohatchi, New Mexico, shares a local, grassroots story of youth as they travel to learn from elders to bring awareness to an important issue and find ways to implement change in their own communities. Watch this powerful narrative and find ways to support positive change in your local community.
Digital Song
Alicia Kayley, a singer and songwriter from the Algonquin and Tahltan Nations, shares her voice through a captivating rendition of a Pop R&B song in Anishinaabemowin, showcasing her cultural roots in mainstream music. Experience the magic of Alicia Kayley’s voice and support her artistic journey by sharing her music.
Pre-sales for the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Box closed on June 30th. View these products at powwowpitch.org/box.