On this collaboration, Chief Lady Bird said, “I am happy to be partnering with Pow Wow Pitch because I believe in uplifting Indigenous entrepreneurs and love that Pow Wow Pitch is creating opportunities for Indigenous people to maintain ownership of their craft, business and intellectual property. It is important to me, as an entrepreneur, to be able to determine my own version of ‘success’ and be free to make choices that best represent my ethics, and I want this to be true for other entrepreneurs as well, and am always excited to watch other Indigenous people thrive!”
Best Buy and Pow Wow Pitch Launch Tech 4 Youth for a Second Year
“We are excited to once again support Pow Wow Pitch by providing technology, mentorship, and funding for Indigenous youth as they prepare to be future entrepreneurs,” said Jen Knight, Social Impact Manager, Best Buy Canada. “Last year our employees had such a meaningful experience mentoring these young entrepreneurs, and we’re proud to continue helping to amplify the amazing work being done by Pow Wow Pitch across Canada.”
Sklar Wilton & Associates Continues Partnership with Pow Wow Pitch to Support Indigenous Entrepreneurs
“We are honoured to continue our partnership with Pow Wow Pitch – an organization that works tirelessly to support Indigenous entrepreneurs” said Jennifer Marley, Partner at Sklar Wilton & Associates. “We have been so impressed with the program and the work these entrepreneurs have done over the past two years and can’t wait to see what this year’s finalists will accomplish.”
CIRA Continues Partnership to Support Online Start-Up for Indigenous Entrepreneurs
“Indigenous entrepreneurs are among the most dynamic and creative in Canada. They are breaking down barriers, supporting their communities and making an impact,” said Spencer Callaghan, Director, Brand and Communications, CIRA. “CIRA is thrilled to continue our partnership with the Pow Wow Pitch community and champion their successes.”
Tara Hall, The Indigenous Kitchen, wins 2023 Manito Ahbee Pow Wow Pitch
“Doing this Pow Wow Pitch was amazing,” said First-Place Winner Tara Hall, Founder of The Indigenous Kitchen. “It was my first try, so I want to say ‘Give it a try and it was worth a shot.’” Tara shares her advice to other entrepreneurs, “Somebody said that the worst case scenario was that someone was going to say ‘No’ to me but to just keep on trying, so that’s what I did.”
Rebuilding Spiritual and Entrepreneurial Foundations
Jenn believes that generational healing is possible, and she has transformed herself into a new person who can handle things in a much healthier way. Jenn says, “We are the only ones in charge of seeking healing.”
Pitcher to Partner: Pow Wow Pitch Partners with Kejic Productions at Manito Ahbee Festival
“We could not be more proud of Erica and her team,” said Sunshine Tenasco, founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “Erica’s resilience and passion truly shines and watching her grow from a pitcher to a collaborating partner has been an incredible experience. We are so proud to welcome Kejic Productions and can’t wait to see them work their magic.”
Pow Wow Pitch Partners with IndigPro for Manito Ahbee Festival Pitch Winners
“As Canada’s economy continues to evolve, it’s essential that we provide ample opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs to succeed,” said Dwayne Bird, CEO of IndigPro. “We understand that starting a profitable, sustainable business is no easy feat, especially for those facing unique obstacles related to family, community, and culture. However, we are proud to be partners with Pow Wow Pitch as we work towards our shared goal of supporting and removing barriers to growth for Indigenous entrepreneurs. Our collaborative efforts will help build strong, vibrant brands that embody the spirit of winners.”
ITAC and Pow Wow Pitch Partner for Another Year to Uplift Creative and Tourism Entrepreneurs
“We are so pleased to work with the Indigenous-led team at Pow Wow Pitch to provide important support to creative and tourism entrepreneurs,” said Keith Henry, President and CEO of ITAC. “As we begin our recovery for the Indigenous tourism industry, it is critical we include Indigenous creators to bring our vibrant Indigenous cultures to life from coast to coast to coast.”
Canada Post and Pow Wow Pitch Partner for the Fourth Year to Uplift Indigenous Entrepreneurs Through Mentorship
Danielle Doiron, General Manager, Marketing, at Canada Post, said, “As part of our commitment to investing in the success of small business and strengthening communities across Canada, including underserved northern and Indigenous communities, we are proud to once again sponsor Pow Wow Pitch. We are honoured to enable Indigenous entrepreneurs across the country and help them start and grow their businesses.”
Weaving Culture and Community Together
Trisha and Mélanie, the founders of MINI TIPI, are business partners but they are also close friends. For them, “entrepreneurship is not just about creating a business. It’s about creating a legacy,” said on the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast.
Mastercard doubles down on support for Indigenous entrepreneurs with Pow Wow Pitch partnership extension!
“At Mastercard, we are proud to invest in establishing and growing Pow Wow Pitch as a sustainable and scalable solution to foster Indigenous entrepreneurship and empowerment,” said Sasha Krstic, president of Mastercard in Canada. “Seeing the impact Pow Wow Pitch has had on Indigenous entrepreneurs is truly inspiring. We are excited to extend our partnership and continue the important work of empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs.”
Creating Growth through Partnerships between Researchers & Businesses
“Mitacs and Pow Wow Pitch share a vision for the future of innovation and the important role Indigenous researchers and organizations play in ensuring Canada’s economic success. We are proud to partner with Pow Wow Pitch as a Community-Level Sponsor and to continue working together to empower Indigenous innovation, research, and entrepreneurship,” said John Hepburn, CEO of Mitacs Inc.
Celebrate Indigenous Entrepreneurship: Applications Now Open for 2023 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards
Pow Wow Pitch has announced the opening of applications and nominations for the 3rd Annual Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards. Applications close on June 21st, 2023.
Calling All Indigenous Entrepreneurs: Pow Wow Pitch Announces $200,000 Cash Prize Competition
Pow Wow Pitch has announced the opening of its eighth annual competition to Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island. The competition is presented in partnership with RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard and offers more than $200,000 in cash prizes.