On November 9, 2023, Pow Wow Pitch, a non-profit organization supporting and celebrating Indigenous entrepreneurs, announced eight Award Winners from across Turtle Island at the 3rd Annual Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, co-presented by RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard in partnership with Export Development Canada and the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada. 

The Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards recognize and celebrate excellence and outstanding impact in Indigenous entrepreneurship by recognizing eight entrepreneurial leaders for their perseverance, growth, impact and example.

Sunshine Tenasco, Co-Founder of Pow Wow Pitch, hosted the event, which featured a special hoop dance performance by Theland Kicknosway from Walpole Island Bkejwanong Territory, Ontario and eight Award presentations.

MEET THE 2023 INDIGENOUS ENTREPRENEUR AWARD WINNERS 

Terry Brown, Founder & CEO Okimaw Community and HR Solutions (Winnipeg, MB)

RBC Rising Star Award Winner, presented by Carrie Batt, Vice President of Business Markets at RBC. Watch here.

“I’d like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Pow Wow Pitch organizers, sponsors, and my family for believing in me,” said Co-Founder and CEO, Terry Brown. “Eight years ago I embraced entrepreneurship, seeking autonomy and ownership after a decade of building entities for others. The arrival of my daughter became my greatest inspiration to create a greater future for her and other generations to come. None of this would be possible without my incredible team at Okimaw Community and HR Solutions, their dedication and hard work have been the driving force behind our success.”

Terry Brown, the Founder of Okimaw Community and HR Solutions from Peguis First Nation, has emerged as a transformative force to the standard of Human Resource practices. By combining deep-rooted Indigenous tradition with a drive to grow, Okimaw champions growth and unity. Serving more than 60 Indigenous communities across Canada, Okimaw Community and HR Solutions is investing in giving back in education and employment avenues, attesting to its commitment to community and economic prosperity.

Michelle Bernier, Founder and CEO of Northern Nursing Solutions (Calgary, AB)

RBC Entrepreneurial Icon Award Winner, presented by Carrie Batt, Vice President of Business Markets at RBC. Watch here.

“I stand before you today deeply humbled and grateful to receive this award,” said Founder and CEO, Michelle Bernier. “I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the incredible team at Northern Nursing Solutions, their dedication is the driving force behind our mission success. I am also indebted to my family and community, whose unwavering support and encouragement have been my pillars of strength throughout this journey.”

As a Penticton-based Northern Tutchone woman from Selkirk First Nation who is committed to providing culturally safe and aware services to the healthcare industry, Michelle Bernier is bridging gaps as the Founder and CEO of Northern Nursing Solutions. Northern Nursing Solutions is a woman-led and Indigenous-owned travel nursing agency that provides understaffing and relief solutions to healthcare facilities. Founded in 2017, and incorporated in 2021, Northern Nursing Solutions, supports clients to access more than 300 dedicated and qualified healthcare professionals and has grown to more than $2.4 million in annual revenue. Dedication to serving Indigenous communities and transforming the quality of healthcare, makes Michelle Bernier a most deserving recipient of the RBC Entrepreneurial Icon Award.

Sarain Fox, Activist, Entrepreneur, Broadcaster (Barrie, ON)

Shopify Entrepreneurial Spirit Award Winner, presented by Kyle Brennan Shàwinipinesì, Build Native Program Manager at Shopify. Watch here.

“This means so much to me because it took me decades to be able to claim storytelling as a career path,” said Artist and Entrepreneur, Sarain Fox. “To me the art of storytelling and entrepreneurship started in the world of theater and seeing what could happen when you have the power to tell your own stories. Through my platform at Sarain Fox and my production studio, our goal is to create meaningful representation through all sectors. This award means so much because it not only recognizes recent work over the last few years, but decades worth of work that myself and so many Indigenous people have been doing to create space, meaningful dialogue, and to create activists.”

Sarain Fox, founder of Land Back Studios, is a force to be reckoned with. Hailing from Batchawana First Nation, she is a filmmaker, broadcaster, entrepreneur, storyteller and fierce activist. Her documentary “Inendi” speaks volumes to her storytelling talent and activist flame to ensure Indigenous voices are heard and protected. Sarain’s screen highlights include the award-winning series, RISE (Viceland), Cut-off (Viceland) and APTN’s Future History. Her ability to dive into challenging social and cultural topics has gained Sarain an audience that is as diverse as it is engaged. In every role, Sarain is a staunch advocate, pushing for Indigenous rights and representation.

James Jones, Activist, Dancer, Entrepreneur (Edmonton, AB)

Shopify Entrepreneurial Spirit Award Winner, presented by Kyle Brennan Shàwinipinesì, Build Native Program Manager at Shopify. Watch here.

“I would like to thank my family, sisters, and friends who have been my biggest supporters throughout this process,” said James. “As an Indigenous artist and entrepreneur, I have learned that we belong in these spaces, whether it’s on billboards or in the media, we 100% deserve to be here. Thank you to all of the organizers of this event for this award! My number one call to action to any looking to start their social media journey is to ‘Just giv’er!’”

James Jones, “Notorious Cree” from Tall Cree First Nation, Alberta, is a talented Nêhiyaw (Cree) hoop dancer and fierce activist. Garnering more than four million followers on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, he’s been a force on global stages: the Winter Olympics, Coachella, and the Sydney Opera House. Among the Top 5 hoop dancers globally, he’s collaborated with luminaries like K-OS and Snoop Dogg, and shone on “So You Think You Can Dance Canada.” James is an emblem of Indigenous pride, fiercely challenging misconceptions while celebrating and elevating Indigenous heritage. 

Vanessa Gernier, Founder and CEO of Quilts for Survivors (Timmins, ON)

Mastercard Game Changer Award Winner, presented by Jennifer Sloan, Senior Vice President of Public Policy and Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard. Watch here.

“I am honoured to accept this award in recognition for the work being done for Indigenous survivors by survivors,” said Founder and CEO, Vanessa Genier. “I am here today because of my great grandparents and survivors, Emily and David. What started out as a grassroots project quickly became an international way to bring honour, respect, and love to survivors. Thank you to Pow Wow Pitch and Mastercard for honouring Indigenous entrepreneurs. I would also like to thank our many volunteers, our supporters, my first nation, our board, friends, and family.”

Vanessa Genier, Founder of Quilts for Survivors, represents the essence of Missanabie Cree First Nation’s strength and tenacity. Through Vanessa’s visionary leadership, the non-profit has compassionately draped over 3,000 survivors of Residential School and 60’s Scoop Survivors in the warmth of meticulously crafted quilts, symbolizing both solace and recognition. Each quilt, thoughtfully woven with indigenous values, becomes a resilient testament to past adversities and a beacon for collective healing. Vanessa’s initiative is creating a platform for Indigenous cultural education and a call to Truth and Reconciliation. 

Lori Anne Stanger, Co-founder and CEO of FIRE 1 (North Bay, ON)

Mastercard Game Changer Award Winner, presented by Jennifer Sloan, Senior Vice President of Public Policy and Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard. Watch here.

“I am really grateful to be here and I would like to thank all the sponsors and the hardworking team of the Pow Wow Pitch organizers for sharing the message across Turtle Island that entrepreneurship is a possibility for Indigenous peoples,” said Lori. ”It has been a historic fire season and I would like to honour and thank the brave people that are out on the fireline keeping communities safe. I would also like to thank my incredible team at FIRE 1 for their support. Thank you to everyone, migwetch.”

Lori Anne Stanger, from Timiskaming First Nation, has expertly positioned her enterprise in response to the escalating challenges of global wildfires through her organization, FIRE 1. To tackle the devastation caused by rising climates and wildfires, Lori created FIRE 1 to educate and train skilled teams to bring aid to communities. Established in 2013, FIRE 1 boasts a prestigious accreditation from Ontario’s Ministry of NDMNRF, reflecting its commitment to top-tier training in wildfire suppression, mitigation, and prevention. Leading a team of eight specialists, Lori uniquely stands as an Indigenous woman directing essential wildfire training. 

Vanessa Marshall, Founder and CEO of Jack59 Inc. (Edmonton, AB)

EDC Export Award Winner, presented by Todd Evans, National Lead for Indigenous Exporters at Export Development Canada. Watch here.

“I am deeply honoured and humbled to accept the EDC export award for domestic success and global potential,” said Founder and CEO, Vanessa Marshall. “This award holds profound significance for not just myself, but for the broader Indigenous communities and our collective journey towards redefining entrepreneurship and paving the way for future generations.”

Vanessa Marshall, a visionary Métis entrepreneur, brought to life Jack59 Inc. from the heart of Edmonton, Alberta. Inspired by her Indigenous roots and a commitment to sustainable change, Jack59 stands as a testament to Vanessa’s dedication to championing both environmental responsibility and diversity, especially within the LGBTQ2S+ community. Today, with 16 dedicated employees and boasting an annual revenue of over $1.4 million, Jack59 has achieved a BCorp certification and continues to pave a path towards sustainability and recognition for Indigenous brands across Canada. Vanessa’s leadership not only ensures a nurturing environment where women can thrive, but she also passionately bridges the gap between tradition and modernity, proving that businesses can indeed be both impactful and ethical.

Trina Mather-Simard, Founder of Indigenous Experiences & Mādahòkì Farms (Stitsville, ON)

ITAC Tourism Award Winner, presented by Keith Henry, CEO of the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada. Watch here.

“I have lived and operated our organization, Indigenous Experiences, on the traditional unceded algonquin territory for over 25 years,” said Trina. “I am grateful to the organizers of pow wow pitch for this recognition and to all of their sponsors for making it possible. I am incredibly grateful for the strong team and community I have behind me at Indigenous Experiences and Mādahòkì Farm who share this honour, chi miigwetch.”

For over two decades, Trina Mather-Simard has been a formidable force in the Indigenous tourism sector, reshaping Ottawa’s urban landscape with enriched Indigenous culture. Founder of Indigenous Experiences, she innovatively transitioned the Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival to a virtual platform during the pandemic, engaging over half a million participants. Her venture, Mādahòkì Farm, is an agritourism hot spot and economic powerhouse on the traditional unceded Algonquin Nation territory that houses multiple forms of traditional programming and protection of endangered Ojibwe spirit horses. Through initiatives like the farm’s Indigenous marketplace, she bolsters local economies, and provides significant employment opportunities. Trina is a cultural ambassador, ensuring authentic Indigenous stories and traditions thrive.

“It is an honour to be celebrating the paths and triumphs of Indigenous entrepreneurs,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “Congratulations to this year’s Indigenous Entrepreneur Award Recipients. Your entrepreneurial spirit is a testament to resilience and strength to reach new heights. You are lighting the path for future generations to tread with confidence and purpose.”

“The Pow Wow Pitch is an incredible showcase of Indigenous trailblazers who are playing a critical role in driving economic growth and social impact with their innovative solutions, resilience and unwavering commitment to success,” said Michael Ferencich, Senior Vice President, Business Financial Services, RBC. “We are proud to put a spotlight on this year’s winners and celebrate their outstanding contributions to Canada’s business and entrepreneurial ecosystem. Through our collaboration with the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, we will continue to uncover more of these inspiring stories and support the growth and success of Indigenous entrepreneurs.”

“A resounding applause for the exceptional and motivating recipients, visionary leaders, and their outstanding teams! Indigenous entrepreneurship is a dynamic force, and these remarkable award winners are trailblazers in the ever-evolving age of Indigenous excellence in commerce,” celebrated Kyle St-Amour-Brennan, Senior Lead for Indigenous Entrepreneurship at Shopify. “We are honored and grateful to contribute to and witness this transformative wave that rightfully acknowledges Indigenous entrepreneurs and their communities nationwide, fostering collective empowerment that centers social, environmental, and cultural well-being at its core.”

“Congratulations to the winners of the 2023 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards! All of this year’s competitors demonstrated what it means to lead with creativity, resiliency and innovation,” said Sasha Krstic, President of Mastercard in Canada. “At Mastercard, we’re proud to support opportunities for economic growth, contribute to community building and engage in collaborative partnerships. We know the future is brighter when Indigenous entrepreneurship is recognized, supported and celebrated.”

“Congratulations to all of the winners and nominees of the 2023 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards,” said Todd Evans, National Lead for Indigenous Exporters at Export Development Canada. “Indigenous entrepreneurs serve as inspirations and role models in their communities, showcasing the potential for prosperity and paving the way for aspiring entrepreneurs. We take immense pride in standing alongside these trailblazers, recognizing their invaluable contributions and ensuring their visions come to fruition.”

“Congratulations to all of the recipients of the 2023 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards and businesses being recognized tonight,” said Keith Henry, President and CEO of the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC). “ITAC believes strongly in supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs and tourism businesses, and we are proud to recognize their outstanding work in taking strides in the tourism industry.”

Each of tonight’s winners receives an Official Pin for Award recipients designed and hand created by Niiostoseraah Thompson, Founder and CEO of Small Feather Empire; and a signed limited edition print of the artwork ‘Ring’ by Chippewa and Potawatomi Artist, Chief Lady Bird from Rama First Nation, which features a plaque with their name and recognition.

To watch the 2023 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, click here.

For interviews with the winners or founder of Pow Wow Pitch, please email hello@powwowpitch.org.

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November 9, 2023 | Pow Wow Pitch, North America’s premier pitch competition for emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, co-presented by RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard in partnership with Export Development Canada and the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, presented Sarain Fox from Batchawana First Nation with the Shopify Entrepreneurial Spirit Award at the Third Annual Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards. 

Sarain was presented the Shopify Entrepreneurial Spirit Award by Kyle Brennan Shàqinippinesì, Build Native Program Manager at Shopify. 

Sarain Fox, the founder of Land Back Studios and member of Batchawana First Nation, Sarain Fox’s work spans entrepreneurship, filmmaking, broadcasting, and activism. 

Her documentary “Inendi” raised awareness for Elder protection during the pandemic, exemplifying her drive for societal change. 

With appearances on platforms like Vogue, CBC, and The New York Times, and partnerships with brands such as Sephora and Nike N7, Sarain’s influence is far-reaching.

She’s shaped narratives in her award-winning series ‘RISE’ and ‘Cut-off’, using storytelling to spark dialogue and action, becoming an essential voice for Indigenous rights and representation. 

Sarain’s commitment to her community and cultural heritage in her entrepreneurial journey honors the very essence of the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards and makes  Sarain a most deserving winner of the Shopify Entrepreneurial Spirit Award.

“This means so much to me because it took me decades to be able to claim storytelling as a career path,” said Sarain. “To me the art of storytelling and entrepreneurship started in the world of theater and seeing what could happen when you have the power to tell your own stories. Through my platform at Sarain Fox and my production studio, our goal is to create meaningful representation through all sectors. This award means so much because it not only recognizes recent work over the last few years, but decades worth of work that myself and so many Indigenous people have been doing to create space, meaningful dialogue, and to create activists.”

“It is an honour for us to celebrate and recognize excellence and outstanding impact in Indigenous entrepreneurship and activism,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “Congratulations, Sarain, we are so proud of your work and courage to inspire the next generation of Indigenous excellence to be fierce and proud of who they are. You truly embody the essence of an Indigenous Entrepreneurial Spirit.”

To watch Sarain’s feature, click here. To watch the full Awards show, click here.

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November 9, 2023 | Pow Wow Pitch, North America’s premier pitch competition for emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, co-presented by RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard in partnership with Export Development Canada and the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, presented James Jones from Tall Cree First Nation with the Shopify Entrepreneurial Spirit Award at the Third Annual Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards.

James was presented the Shopify Entrepreneurial Spirit Award by Kyle Brennan Shàqinippinesì, Build Native Program Manager at Shopify.

James Jones, known as “Notorious Cree,” is a world-renowned Nêhiyaw hoop dancer from Tall Cree First Nation. 

His unique blend of traditional and modern dance has garnered over four million followers, taking him from the Winter Olympics to the Sydney Opera House. Ranked among the world’s top 5 hoop dancers, James has shared stages with K-OS and Snoop Dogg, and showcased his talent on “So You Think You Can Dance Canada.” 

His 15-plus years of dance experience fuel his high-energy, interactive performances, combining traditional hoop, powwow, and hip-hop dance styles. Beyond performance, James’s social work degree informs his empowerment workshops addressing critical issues in Indigenous communities. 

As a TikTok sensation, he’s using his platform to share and celebrate Indigenous culture, making him a trailblazer and an inspiring recipient of the Shopify Entrepreneurial Spirit Award.

“I would like to thank my family, sisters, and friends who have been my biggest supporters throughout this process,” said James. “As an Indigenous artist and entrepreneur, I have learned that we belong in these spaces, whether it’s on billboards or in the media, we 100% deserve to be here. Thank you to all of the organizers of this event for this award! My number one call to action to any looking to start their social media journey is to ‘Just giv’er!’”

“We are honoured to celebrate the incredible role models of Indigenous entrepreneurship,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “Congratulations, James, we are so proud to watch you shine as a positive role model for Indigenous youth and stand as an advocate for Indigenous representation across the globe.”

To watch James’s feature, click here. To watch the full Awards show, click here.

The post James Jones wins the Shopify Entrepreneurial Spirit Award appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

November 9, 2023 | Pow Wow Pitch, North America’s premier pitch competition for emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, co-presented by RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard in partnership with Export Development Canada and the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, presented Vanessa Genier from Missanabie Cree First Nation with the Mastercard Game Changer Award at the Third Annual Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards.

Vanessa was presented with the Mastercard Game Changer Award by Jennifer Sloan, Senior Vice President of Public Policy and Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard.

Through her Timmons, Ontario-based organization, Quilts for Survivors, Vanessa Genier, who belongs to Missanabie Cree First Nation, has sparked a nationwide movement, uniting communities with every stitch. 

Through her leadership, Vanessa has transformed the craft of quilting into a social enterprise with profound impact. Her non-profit has empowered over 3,800 Residential School and 60’s Scoop Survivors across Canada, enveloping them in quilts that symbolize healing and cultural reverence.

This award celebrates Vanessa’s remarkable ability to weave together a network of volunteers and quilters, fostering a community dedicated to support and reconciliation. Quilts for Survivors transcends traditional boundaries, creating a space for education, remembrance, collective action and cultural learning. 

Vanessa’s unwavering commitment, entrepreneurial acument and community impact, proves that true change is handmade and makes Vanessa a most deserving recipient of the Mastercard Change Maker Award.

“I am honoured to accept this award in recognition for the work being done for Indigenous survivors by survivors,” said Vanessa. “I am here today because of my great grandparents and survivors, Emily and David. What started out as a grassroots project quickly became an international way to bring honour, respect, and love to survivors. Thank you to Pow Wow Pitch and Mastercard for honouring Indigenous entrepreneurs. I would also like to thank our many volunteers, our supporters, my first nation, our board, friends, and family.”

“It is an honour for us to celebrate the outstanding impact in Indigenous entrepreneurship and initiatives toward reconciliation,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “Congratulations, Vanessa, we are so proud of your work and heart to take care of our elders and Survivors. Thank you for creating a platform that helps our Survivors feel safe and protected.”

To watch Vanessa’s feature, click here. To watch the full Awards show, click here.

The post Vanessa Genier wins the Mastercard Game Changer Award appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

November 9, 2023 | Pow Wow Pitch, North America’s premier pitch competition for emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, co-presented by RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard in partnership with Export Development Canada and the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, presented Lori Anne Stanger from Timiskaming First Nation with the Mastercard Game Changer Award at the Third Annual Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards.

Lori was presented with the Mastercard Game Changer Award by Jennifer Sloan, Senior Vice President of Public Policy and Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard.

Lori Anne Stanger, from Timiskaming First Nation, leads FIRE 1 with strategic expertise, turning it into a frontline defence against wildfires. 

Her accredited training facility, recognized by Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Forests, provides rigorous training and education, equips communities across Ontario to effectively mitigate fire risks. 

Through FIRE 1, accredited by Ontario’s Ministery of Natural Resources and Forrests, Lori leads a specialized team in a field where indigenous knowledge and modern techniques intersect, creating a formidable force against the perils of fire. 

Together with her daughter, they exemplify leadership and solid business growth, setting a new benchmark in fire management. 

For her pivotal role in enhancing safety and preparedness, and as an Indigenous woman directing essential wildfire training, Lori is a standout recipient of the Mastercard Game Changer Award.

“I am really grateful to be here and I would like to thank all the sponsors and the hardworking team of the Pow Wow Pitch organizers for sharing the message across Turtle Island that entrepreneurship is a possibility for Indigenous peoples,” said Lori. ”It has been a historic fire season and I would like to honour and thank the brave people that are out on the fireline keeping communities safe. I would also like to thank my incredible team at FIRE 1 for their support. Thank you to everyone, migwetch.”

“It is an honour for us to celebrate the incredible initiative of Indigenous entrepreneurship,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “Congratulations, Lori Anne, we are so proud of your work to take care of our communities and our environment.”

To watch Lori’s feature, click here. To watch the full Awards show, click here.

The post Lori Anne Stanger wins the Mastercard Game Changer Award appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

November 9, 2023 | Pow Wow Pitch, North America’s premier pitch competition for emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, co-presented by RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard in partnership with Export Development Canada and the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, presented Vanessa Marshall from the Métis Nation of Alberta with the EDC Export Award at the Third Annual Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards.

Vanessa was presented with the EDC Export Award by Todd Evans, National Lead for Indigenous Exporters at Export Development Canada.

Vanessa Marshall’s vision for Jack59 transcends borders, merging Métis heritage with global sustainability goals. In Edmonton, she launched an eco-innovative line of shampoo bars, steering the beauty industry towards greener horizons. 

Under Vanessa’s entrepreneurial spirit, Jack59 flourishes, now boasting a presence in over 300 stores in Canada and beyond, and contributing to job growth with 16 employees. 

A BCorp-certified beacon, Jack59 embodies inclusivity and environmental integrity, successfully keeping over 600,000 plastic bottles from landfills. 

As a member of the Métis Nation of Alberta, Vanessa has positioned Jack59 not just as a Canadian success story but as a global example of how Indigenous-led businesses can scale, create value, and lead in sustainability. 

Her leadership, advocating for a better world through inclusive, sustainable innovative business practices, makes Vanessa a most deserving recipient of the Export Development Canada Export Award.

“I am deeply honoured and humbled to accept the EDC export award for domestic success and global potential,” said Vanessa. “This award holds profound significance for not just myself, but for the broader Indigenous communities and our collective journey towards redefining entrepreneurship and paving the way for future generations.”

“It is an honour for us to celebrate the innovation and leadership of Indigenous entrepreneurship,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “Congratulations, Vanessa, we are so proud of your commitment to fostering an ethical and sustainable business model and mission.”

To watch Vanessa’s feature, click here. To watch the full Awards show, click here.

The post Vanessa Marshall wins the EDC Export Award appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

November 9, 2023 | Pow Wow Pitch, North America’s premier pitch competition for emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, co-presented by RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard in partnership with Export Development Canada and the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, presented Trina Mather-Simard from Curve Lake First Nation with the ITAC Tourism Award at the Third Annual Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards.

Trina was presented with the ITAC Tourism Award by Keith Henry, President and CEO of the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada. 

Trina Mather-Simard, a member of Curve Lake First Nation, has transformed Ottawa’s cultural landscape through Mādahòkì Farm. 

Situated on unceded Algonquin Nation territory, Mādahòkì Farm stands as a year-round agritourism gem, with thousands of visitors each year, preserving Ojibwe (O-jib-way) spirit horses and igniting economic prosperity through its Indigenous marketplace, culinary experiences, cultural education and community collaborations. 

As a trailblazing founder in the tourism sector, Trina champions authentic Indigenous experiences, forging a sustainable economic path. 

Trina’s visionary journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to Indigenous culture and sustainable tourism making Trina the ideal recipient of the Indigenous Tourism Association Tourism Award.

“I have lived and operated our organization, Indigenous Experiences, on the traditional unceded algonquin territory for over 25 years,” said Trina. “I am grateful to the organizers of pow wow pitch for this recognition and to all of their sponsors for making it possible. I am incredibly grateful for the strong team and community I have behind me at Indigenous Experiences and Mādahòkì Farm who share this honour, chi miigwetch.”

“We are honoured to celebrate the outstanding leaders in Indigenous entrepreneurship and tourism,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “Congratulations, Trina, you are putting real Indigenous experiences on the map and we are so proud of your work to conserve culture, take up space, and support local Indigenous economies!”

To watch Trina’s feature, click here. To watch the full Awards show, click here.

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November 9, 2023 | Pow Wow Pitch, North America’s premier pitch competition for emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, co-presented by RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard in partnership with Export Development Canada and the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, presented Michelle Bernier from Selik First Nation with the RBC Entrepreneurial Icon Award at the Third Annual Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards.

Michelle was presented with the RBC Entrepreneurial Icon Award by Carrie Batt, Vice President of Business Markets at RBC.

As a Penticton-based Northern Tutchone woman from Selik First Nation committed to providing culturally safe and aware services to the healthcare industry, Michelle Bernier is bridging gaps as the Founder and CEO of Northern Nursing Solutions. 

Northern Nursing Solutions is a woman-led travel nursing agency that provides understaffing and relief solutions to healthcare facilities. Founded in 2017, Northern Nursing Solutions, has grown robustly, boasting over 300 dedicated professionals and a noteworthy $2.4 million in annual revenue. 

Dedication to serving Indigenous communities and transforming the quality of healthcare, makes Michelle Bernier a most deserving recipient of the RBC Entrepreneurial Icon Award.

“I stand before you today deeply humbled and grateful to receive this award,” said Michelle. “I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the incredible team at Northern Nursing Solutions, their dedication is the driving force behind our mission success. I am also indebted to my family and community, whose unwavering support and encouragement have been my pillars of strength throughout this journey.”

“We are honoured to celebrate the outstanding leaders in Indigenous entrepreneurship and tourism,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “Congratulations, Trina, you are putting real Indigenous experiences on the map and we are so proud of your work to conserve culture, take up space, and support local Indigenous economies!”

To watch Michelle’s feature, click here. To watch the full Awards show, click here.

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November 9, 2023 | Pow Wow Pitch, North America’s premier pitch competition for emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, co-presented by RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard in partnership with Export Development Canada and the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, presented Terry Brown from Peguis First Nation with the RBC Rising Star Award at the Third Annual Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards.

Terry was presented with the RBC Entrepreneurial Icon Award by Carrie Batt, Vice President of Business Markets at RBC.

Terry Brown, the Co-Founder of Okimaw Community and HR Solutionsbelonging to Peguis First Nation, stands at the forefront of economic development within Indigenous communities. His leadership has catalyzed the growth of Okimaw, shaping it into a key player in fostering economic sovereignty across Indigenous nations.

Since its inception in 2019, Okimaw has grown to serve over 100 Indigenous communities, a testament to Terry’s profound impact on economic empowerment and reconciliation. His strategic vision has been pivotal in facilitating significant business deals, contributing to over half a billion dollars in sales and economic activity.

With his dedication to combining traditional values with strategic economic practices, Terry Brown has rightfully earned the RBC Rising Star Award for his measurable achievements in economic growth and community empowerment within Indigenous communities.

“I’d like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Pow Wow Pitch organizers, sponsors, and my family for believing in me,” said Terry. “Eight years ago I embraced entrepreneurship, seeking autonomy and ownership after a decade of building entities for others. The arrival of my daughter became my greatest inspiration to create a greater future for her and other generations to come. None of this would be possible without my incredible team at Okimaw Community and HR Solutions, their dedication and hard work have been the driving force behind our success.”

“It is an honour for us to celebrate the outstanding impact and leadership of Indigenous entrepreneurship,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “Congratulations, Terry, we are so proud of your commitment to creating culturally aware solutions and practices in your mission to grow Indigenous businesses across Turtle Island.”

To watch Terry’s feature, click here. To watch the full Awards show, click here.

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November 2, 2023 | Today, Pow Wow Pitch, a non-profit organization that supports and celebrates Indigenous entrepreneurs, announced artist and entrepreneur, Niiostoseraah Thompson of Small Feather Empire as the creator for the 2023 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards Official Pin.

Small Feather Empire is a collective of beadwork artists that specializes in Haudenosaunee raised beadwork lead by Founder and CEO, Niiostoseraah. 

Each of the eight Award Winners of the 2023 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards from across Turtle Island will receive an official gold and crystal adornment as an heirloom in recognition of their impact and outstanding achievements.

Niiostoseraah shares the following description of the design, materials and vision.

“My intention for this pin was for everyone to feel proud of their accomplishments.

From Chief Lady Bird’s ‘Ring’ art piece, I interpreted the flower and vines of the medallion to represent that anyone can blossom into whoever they want to be and take different paths to success.

I used 24 karat gold beads with a swarovski flower crystal in the center to bring it all together. 

I would like the entrepreneurs to think about their community and that no matter where they go or what they do, they always have a place in that community and to go back to.

What went through my mind when I created the pins was how much the recipients have accomplished with their business and I hope to grow to the levels that they have.

Congratulations to the recipients of the 2023 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, thank you for being a leader for other Indigenous entrepreneurs out there and keep doing what you’re doing.”

The Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards Digital Gala takes place on November 9th from 6.00 PM ET and features a special performance by hoop dancer, Theland Kicknosway and the presentation of the eight Award Winners. Register now to watch the awards and join in the celebration.

The Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards are presented by RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard in partnership with Export Development Canada and the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada.

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