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

Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch, hosted the event, which featured a special opening by Inuit throat singers, Tamara Takpannie and Janice Oolayou, from Iqaluit, Nunavut, and ten Award presentations.

MEET THE 2024 INDIGENOUS ENTREPRENEUR AWARD RECIPIENTS

Ivy Richardson, Founder of Red Girl Rising (Snuneymuxw First Nation, BC)

RBC Rising Star Award recipient, presented by Tracy Antoine, RBC Origins, Senior Director, Client Strategy at RBC. Watch here.

“Throughout this journey, I’ve learned that entrepreneurship is as much about resilience as it is about innovation,” shared Ivy Richardson. “As Indigenous entrepreneurs, we don’t just navigate the typical challenges of business. We carry the weight of systemic barriers that our communities have faced for generations, yet we persist.”

Ivy Richarson is from the Quatsino and Nuxalk Nations, operating her non-profit organization on the traditional territory of the Snuneymuxw First Nation, centered around movement as medicine. Red Girl Rising’s mission is to collaborate with communities to develop empowering and accessible movement programs, camps, and workshops to unlock their full potential and thrive. Ivy has created and facilitated over 300 movement initiatives since Red Girl Rising’s inception in 2019 and continues to empower and build confidence in surrounding communities.

Beatrice Johnson Tarbell, Founder and Lead Consultant of JT Business Services (Akwesasne, ON) 

RBC Entrepreneurial Icon Award recipient, presented by Tracy Antoine, RBC Origins, Senior Director, Client Strategy at RBC. Watch here.

“I would like to thank the organizations that have supported us at our early stages in my community and to Pow Wow Pitch for this recognition,” shared Beatrice Johnson Tarbell. To her fellow Indigenous entrepreneurs, Beatrice offers the following advice, “trust yourself, don’t stop learning, keep trying in the face of challenges and I wish you the best of luck on your journey, nia:wen’kowa.”

Beatrice Johnson Tarbell is from the Mohawks of Akwesasne and has been operating as a business consultant for more than 20 years, servicing her home community and across Canada with her workshops and programming. JT Business Services provides employment training ​and development, small business management, partnership ​development, and project management to a large network of clients ranging from corporations to small businesses. As Lead Consultant, Beatrice’s strategic vision to build companies from the inside out has left a profound impact on bridging the gaps identified in small businesses.

Crystle Lightning, Co-Creator and Director of Bear Grease (Calgary, AB)

Shopify Entrepreneurial Spirit Award recipient, presented by Kyle Brennan Shàwinipinesì, Senior Lead for Indigenous Entrepreneurship at Shopify. Watch here.

“I am really grateful to Pow Wow Pitch for this incredible honour and thank you to my community. It is such an honour to be recognized and validated as an entrepreneur,” shared Crystle Lightning. “It was really important to create these opportunities and space in the entertainment industry for not only ourselves but for Indigenous people everywhere. I want to encourage all of the young people that anything is possible, chase it down.”

Crystle Lightning is from the Enoch Cree Nation, and has been a trailblazer in Indigenous representation and leadership in the entertainment industry for over 30 years. She is the co-creator, director, and star of Bear Grease, an acclaimed all Indigenous musical that reimagines the 1978 classic Grease with an Indigenous twist. Bear Grease has toured across Canada and the U.S., earning praise for its humour and the vibrant Indigenous spirit. Crystle’s work on Bear Grease reflects her dedication to creating space for Indigenous voices and stories, leading the way for greater visibility and opportunities in the arts.

Lesley Hampton, Artist & Fashion Designer (Toronto, ON)

Shopify Innovation Excellence Award recipient, presented by Kyle Brennan Shàwinipinesì, Senior Lead for Indigenous Entrepreneurship at Shopify. Watch here.

“Receiving this award is a testament to the power of embracing who you are, of blending the old world and new world, and innovating with a purpose that goes beyond profit,” shared Lesley Hampton. “To my community, thank you so much for your unwavering support, I am constantly inspired by the strength, wisdom, and resilience of our community. And to the next generation of Indigenous entrepreneurs, remember that our stories and knowledge are our greatest assets. Migwetch and let’s continue to create a future where traditions and innovations thrive together.”

Lesley Hampton is an Anishinaabe artist and fashion designer from Temagami First Nation who is focused on mental wellness and body neutrality in fashion through an Indigenous lens. Lesley has scaled her brand as a retailer to provide a wide range from luxury designs, athleisure, jewelry, and custom designs. Her unique blend of traditional and modern designs has positioned her as a leader in Indigenous fashion. As a brand, Lesley Hampton has showcased at Fashion Weeks around the world, and Indigenous Fashion Arts Festivals, and has also dressed celebrities for red carpets.

Darion Ducharme, Founder of Teqare (Winnipeg, MB)

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

“Our vision is to go all across Turtle Island and for Teqare to be a household name that people can trust,” shared Darion Ducharme. “I received this award with the belief that it is possible for everyone, no matter your background or situation. The Creator has a plan, a purpose for your life, and you can accomplish anything that is in your heart.”

Darion Ducharme is the Lac Seul First Nation Founder of Teqare, a 100% Indigenous-owned and operated technology training company based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Darion is accompanied by a growing team of Indigenous youth and shares his entrepreneurial journey with co-founder Zachary Flett from Sagkeeng First Nation. Darion has spearheaded initiatives such as scam prevention workshops for elders, both in urban and rural Indigenous communities across Canada. In 2024, Darion secured contracts to visit rural northern Indigenous communities to expand tech safety training to elementary schools and community centres, expanding Teqare’s impact.

Kelsey Deer, Founder of KEL Tech Gear (Kahnawà:ke, QC)

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

“It means so much to me to receive this award,” shared Kelsey Deer. “I never had a hard launch on my business, instead I started slowly in my community, and I am so grateful for their support of me and my business. To anyone who has supported me on this journey, I’m so grateful.”

From the Mohawks of Kahnawà:ke, Kelsey Deer is a designer, seamstress, and the Founder of KEL Tech Gear. Based on the Kahnawà:ke Mohawk Territory in Quebec, Kelsey’s brand has been hitting milestones as a growing leader in Indigenous design and accessories. Since launching KEL Tech Gear in 2020, Kelsey’s bags have been a hit, selling out at local vendor markets and powwows. Her designs are praised for their handmade quality and bright customizable colours.

Jennifer Ashton, Owner of Jenn Ashton Art (Robert’s Creek, BC)

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

“I want to take this opportunity to encourage others to follow their dreams,” shared Jenn Ashton. “A few things I’ve learned on my path that I would like to share is the importance of embracing new perspectives, building a community of support, never feeling ashamed to ask for help, staying flexible, and enjoying the journey. Embrace the highs and lows because it will always be your story to share, and our stories connect us all, so keep telling your story. Walk in gratitude always.”

Jennifer Ashton is an Award-winning Sḵwx̱wú7mesh author, visual artist, and filmmaker based in Robert’s Creek, British Columbia. Her contributions to the education and entertainment industries have pushed the boundaries of Indigenous representation. Jenn has contributed to various Indigenous film projects such as the Academy Award Nominated “Killers Of The Flower Moon” and her own short film, “What the Dirt Don’t Like.” As a successful author, Jenn is also published in multiple journals, articles, and Canadian textbooks, contributing to the landscape of Indigenous literature and education. Today, Jenn offers mentorship and programming to her community to share her knowledge in the visual art, writing, and filmmaking industries.

Priscilla Boulay, Artist & Operator of Inuvialuit Carvers (Calgary, AB)

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

“There is nothing more fulfilling than passing along my Dad’s legacy and our rich culture to my children and to others as an educator,” shared Priscilla Boulay. “I am living my passion every day as a mother, carver, and teacher. None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of my husband. I extend my heartfelt thanks to my family, mentors, and to all of my supporters. Thank you to Pow Wow Pitch and partners for all that you do to uplift our Indigenous communities that have provided for me and many others the platform to share our stories and talents.”

Coming from a long line of Inuvialuit carvers from Tuktoyaktuk, Northwest Territories, Priscilla Boulay has grown her family’s practice to be shared with surrounding communities and those looking to learn the tradition of Inuvialuit carving. Inuvialuit Carvers is a collection of Priscilla’s family members, the descendants of Bobby Taylor Pokiak, the original carver in the Taylor family, and has since successfully passed the craft to three generations of carvers. Today, Inuvialuit Carvers is based in Calgary, Alberta and offers presentations and carving lessons to keep the craft alive with her community.

Lori Finders, CEO of Binesiwag Center for Wellness (Couchiching First Nation, ON)

Sklar Wilton & Associates Legacy Award recipient, presented by Libier Gomez, Managing Director at Sklar Wilton & Associates. Watch here.

“I want to extend my deepest thanks to my work family at Binesiwag Centre for Wellness, who are truly heart workers and are incredibly gifted Anishinaabekwe,” shared Lori Flinders. “Our Anishinaabe ways of being helpers is a sacred responsibility. It’s a path that requires humility, compassion and deep connection to our community and traditions. These values have guided me in this work and have also helped me in passing that knowledge bundle forward.”

Lori Flinders from Couchiching First Nation, is a published author in wellness from an Anishinaabe worldview and has published an Indigenous mental health and addictions leading practice with Accreditation Canada. Her expertise offers 20 years of leadership, management, program development, leading best practices, and mentorship. The Binesiwag Centre for Wellness is an organization focused on providing a variety of wellness services across the lifespan, including inclusive support for addictions, women, and 2SLGBTQ+. Lori is leaving behind a legacy of empowered and healed individuals through re-membering and re-matriating systems with traditional ceremony, land-based learning, and addiction programs.

Kristopher Morrison, Founder of Indigenous Men’s Alliance (Moose Cree Nation, ON)

Raven Capital Spotlight Award recipient, presented by Althea Wishloff, General Partner at Raven Indigenous Capital Partners. Watch here.

“The Indigenous Mens Alliance was born from the recognition that our men need a space where they can come together, support one another, and confront the challenges we all face in our lives,” shared Kristopher Morrison. “This journey is not just about individual growth, it’s about collective empowerment. When we uplift our men, we uplift our families, our communities, and our future generations. I want to encourage all my relations to bring your ideas forward to uplift our communities and Nations.”

Kristopher Morrison from Moose Cree Nation, founded the Indigenous Men’s Alliance, a network that has echoed a nation-wide call for men’s mental health amongst Indigenous communities. The Indigenous Mens Alliance creates brave spaces where Indigenous men can support one another in overcoming challenges and celebrating their identities and accomplishments. Using traditional and land-based approaches, the Indigenous Men’s Alliance provides quality programs that foster and encourage men to embrace their heritage and build strong, positive relationships within their communities. 

“It is an honour to celebrate these ten Indigenous entrepreneurs who wholeheartedly embody their entrepreneurial spirit,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “Congratulations to the 2024 Indigenous Entrepreneur Award recipients! We are immensely proud of all that you have accomplished and look forward to seeing the incredible impact you will continue to make. Keep inspiring, as you are lighting the path for future generations to follow with confidence and purpose.”

“We are so proud to put a spotlight on this year’s winners and celebrate their incredible achievements and contributions to Canada’s business and entrepreneurial ecosystem.” said Tracy Antoine, RBC Origins, Senior Director, Client Strategy at RBC. “Through our collaboration with Pow Wow Pitch, we will continue to empower Indigenous entrepreneurs by bringing their talents to the forefront and providing meaningful opportunities to support their growth and success across Turtle Island and beyond.” 

“Each year, we are profoundly inspired by the remarkable talent and unwavering spirit of Indigenous innovators honoured at these Awards. Heartfelt congratulations to Crystle and Lesley for their outstanding achievements and well-deserved recognition,” celebrated Kyle Brennan Shàwinipinesì, Senior Lead for Indigenous Entrepreneurship at Shopify. “We are honoured and grateful to be a part of and witness this transformative movement that acknowledges Indigenous entrepreneurs and their communities across Turtle Island. The Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards promote collective empowerment by celebrating innovation, honouring Indigenous-led businesses, and fostering a community that uplifts Indigenous entrepreneurs.”

“Congratulations to the recipients of the 2024 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards! All of this year’s recipients demonstrated what it means to lead with creativity, resiliency and innovation,” said Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President, Public Policy & Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard Canada. “Through our partnership with Pow Wow Pitch, we are extremely proud of the work being done to help break down the unique barriers and challenges that Indigenous entrepreneurs face to foster a more inclusive economy for all Canadians. We know the future is brighter when Indigenous entrepreneurship is recognized, supported and celebrated.”

“Congratulations to all of the recipients of the 2024 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards and businesses being recognized,” 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 2024 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards,” said Keith Henry, President and CEO of the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC). “ITAC strongly believes in supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs and tourism businesses, and we are proud to recognize their outstanding work in taking strides in the tourism industry. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for this year’s Awards winners.”

“We’re thrilled to celebrate the 2024 Indigenous Entrepreneur Award recipients,” said Libier Gomez, Managing Director at Sklar Wilton & Associates. “Your remarkable achievements and positive impact are a powerful example that dreams can indeed become reality. Your entrepreneurial spirit and persistence are an inspiration for future generations, contributing to economic growth that benefits the community. Congratulations on your well-deserved success!”

“The accomplishments of Indigenous entrepreneurs light up our communities, fueling both economic vitality and cultural pride,” shares Althea Wishloff, General Partner of Raven Indigenous Capital Partners, “Raven Indigenous Capital Partners is honoured to celebrate these outstanding leaders, whose dedication and innovation embody our highest values of integrity, accountability, and transparency. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to each recipient, recognizing their achievements as an inspiration to future generations to lead boldly and thrive.”

Each of the Award recipients received an Official Medallion designed and hand-created by Angel Aubichon, Founder and CEO of Indi City; and a signed limited edition print of the artwork ‘Envisioning our World’ by Inuk Artist, Yurak from Iqaluit, which features a plaque with their name and recognition.

To watch the 2024 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, click here.

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Pow Wow Pitch, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and celebrating Indigenous entrepreneurs, has announced that Angel Aubichon, Founder and CEO of Indi City, has created the Official Medallion for the 2024 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards.

Angel Aubichon, a Cree and Métis fashion designer from Peepeekisis Cree Nation, is recognized as a pioneer in Indigenous fashion. Her work bridges Indigenous ancestral connections to the land with cutting-edge innovation, making her the trailblazing Indigenous designer to integrate wearable technology into powwow regalia, sparking the tech-regalia movement. Since Indi City’s launch in 2018, Aubichon’s designs have been celebrated worldwide, with features in Vogue, Fashion Canada, and Harper’s Bazaar.

Across multiple Indigenous cultures, receiving a medallion carries deep significance and embodies respect, recognition, and honour. Angel’s choice to incorporate this traditional symbol for the 2024 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards reflects a heartfelt commitment to honour the legacy and resilience of Indigenous entrepreneurs.

The 2024 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards Medallion, is a striking acrylic piece drawing inspiration from iggaait – Inuit snow goggles  – and reflects the artistic spirit of the 2024 Awards’ Official Art, ‘Envisioning Our World’ by Yurak. Each of the ten Award recipients will be honoured with a medallion to recognize their outstanding achievements and their impact across Turtle Island.

“It was an honour to create the Official Medallion for the 2024 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards,” shared Angel Aubichon, Founder and CEO of Indi City. “This medallion is more than an adornment—it is a symbol of the resilience, creativity, and boundless spirit of Indigenous entrepreneurs. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Yurak for the inspiring artwork ‘Envisioning Our World,’ which played a key role in shaping this medallion’s design. I hope it serves as a powerful reminder to each recipient of their unique contribution to our shared journey of innovation and cultural legacy. Congratulations to this year’s recipients; your dedication and achievements inspire our communities and future generations.”

The Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards Digital Gala, takes place on November 13 at 6:00 PM ET and features a special opening performance by Inuit throat singers, Tamara Takpannie and Janice Oolayou, followed by the presentation of the Awards. Register now to watch the Awards and join in the celebration.

The Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards are co-presented by RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard Canada, and in partnership with Export Development Canada, the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, Raven Indigenous Capital Partners, and Sklar Wilton & Associates.

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The awards continue their mission to celebrate excellence and remarkable achievements in Indigenous entrepreneurship, recognizing outstanding Indigenous entrepreneurs and Indigenous-owned businesses across Canada.

Presented in collaboration with esteemed partners RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard Canada, and with the valued support of the Export Development Canada, Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, Sklar Wilton & Associates, and Raven Indigenous Capital Partners, these awards stand as a testament to the resilience, innovation, and cultural richness of Indigenous entrepreneurship.

Eligible applicants must be Indigenous entrepreneurs with a minimum of three years of business operation in Canada. Applications and nominations will remain open until June 5, 2024, culminating in the announcement and celebration of winners during a digitally broadcast awards presentation on November 13, 2024.

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, expressed, “The Awards are a beacon of recognition for the entrepreneurial spirit and success within Indigenous communities. They provide a vital platform for celebrating resilience and reconciliation through the lens of entrepreneurship.”

Tracy Antoine, Senior Director of Indigenous Programs and Policies at RBC reiterated the importance of the Awards, stating, “The contribution of Indigenous entrepreneurs to our economy is immeasurable – their leadership inspires innovation, collaboration and plays a critical role in fostering stronger, more inclusive communities. Through our support for the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, we are proud to continue our efforts in recognizing the potential and talent of Indigenous innovators and celebrating their inspirational stories of entrepreneurship.”

Kyle Brennan Shàwinipinesì, Build Native Indigenous Entrepreneurship Program Manager at Shopify, emphasized the significance of celebrating Indigenous ingenuity and excellence, saying, “Through our partnership with Pow Wow Pitch and support of the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, Shopify proudly amplifies the exceptional contributions of Indigenous entrepreneurs. Their innovation and dedication exemplify the strength of ancestral wisdom and pave the way for sustainable prosperity.”

Sasha Krstic, President of Mastercard Canada, reinforced the importance of recognizing the successes of Indigenous entrepreneurs, saying, “by championing Indigenous entrepreneurs, we ensure their voices are heard and seen. Together, with Pow Wow Pitch, we are building a future where everyone can reach their full potential, contributing to a more prosperous and inclusive society.”

Todd Evans, National Lead for Indigenous Exporters at Export Development Canada, highlights that celebrating Indigenous people through the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards is a testament to “honoring the resilience, innovation, and cultural richness of Indigenous entrepreneurs. Together, we pave the path towards a future where Indigenous entrepreneurship not only thrives but leads.”

Keith Henry, President and CEO of the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC), expresses being honoured to support Pow Wow Pitch in uplifting Indigenous entrepreneurs through the Awards, stating, “our shared commitment to amplifying Indigenous Peoples and businesses making strides in the tourism industry fosters economic opportunities, while also preserving our cultural heritage for generations to come.  Moreover, ITAC’s vision is to help make Canada the global leader in Indigenous tourism by 2030. The importance of Indigenous tourism entrepreneurs are essential in helping meet this goal, as they contribute to growth in Indigenous-owned and operated tourism businesses, job growth and contributions to Canada’s GDP.”

Libier Gomez, Managing Director of Sklar Wilton & Associates, shares the importance of highlighting the achievements of Indigenous entrepreneurs, stating, “the positive impact of Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island shines bright and enriches our economy. Sklar Wilton & Associates is so proud to show our support in this year’s Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards by highlighting exceptional community leaders, paving the way for future generations.”

Althea Wishloff, General Partner of Raven Indigenous Capital Partners, reinforces the importance of recognizing Indigenous achievements within entrepreneurship, emphasizing, “The impact of Indigenous entrepreneurs resonates deeply within our communities, igniting economic resurgence and cultural vitality. Raven Indigenous Capital Partners, rooted in our commitment to empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs and fostering economic sustainability, proudly champions Indigenous excellence. We are dedicated to showcasing exemplary leaders who embody our values of credibility, accountability, and transparency, thereby inspiring future generations to thrive.” 

The Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards stand as a testament to the vitality of Indigenous entrepreneurship, serving to empower entrepreneurs and bolster the growth and prosperity of Indigenous businesses. To apply or nominate, please visit powwowpitch.org/awards.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
Keely Thompson-Cook at keely@powwowpitch.org.

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