Pow Wow Pitch, North America’s leading initiative and non-profit organization dedicated to supporting emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, is thrilled to announce the continuation of its partnership with Export Development Canada (EDC) for the fourth consecutive year. EDC, committed to fostering Indigenous entrepreneurship, will join Pow Wow Pitch as a Silver Partner for the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Program.
Building on the success of the previous years, EDC remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting more than 2,500 Indigenous entrepreneurs in 2024. EDC’s investment ensures that Pow Wow Pitch can amplify its virtual programs, expand in-person support in communities across Canada, and grow its offerings to support Indigenous entrepreneurs to pursue global markets.
Reflecting on the historical importance of trade in Indigenous prosperity, Todd Evans, National Lead for Indigenous Exporters at EDC, voiced his optimism: “Exporting can empower today’s Indigenous entrepreneurs to build sustainable businesses. Our alliance with Pow Wow Pitch aids EDC’s mission to make trade more inclusive by offering access to our trade expertise, financing solutions, equity, insurance, and connections.”
Through the continued partnership, a range of initiatives will empower Indigenous entrepreneurs seeking to expand into global markets including an Export Series on the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast, a TuesdayTips series on Instagram and Facebook, and EDC will provide Export 101 training at the Pow Wow Pitch Bootcamp. Furthermore, EDC and Pow Wow Pitch will partner on an analysis of the export activity of Indigenous entrepreneurs to inform further support and resources in the future.
Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with EDC to support early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs to understand the opportunities of global markets for their businesses. By providing training, encouragement, and support to Indigenous businesses, we are reclaiming trade our own way across Turtle Island and beyond.”
EDC’s active engagement will extend to judging Pow Wow Pitch events online and participating in person at powwows across Canada. Moreover, EDC employees will play an integral role as mentors, providing guidance and support to Indigenous entrepreneurs on their Pow Wow Pitch journey.
Guided by respect for Indigenous history, traditions, and culture, EDC remains dedicated to supporting Indigenous businesses and removing barriers to growth. Through its partnership with Pow Wow Pitch, EDC aims to reinforce economic self-reliance and community prosperity among Indigenous entrepreneurs in Canada and beyond.
For additional information on the collaboration between Pow Wow Pitch and EDC, please visit Pow Wow Pitch’s website.
About Pow Wow Pitch:
Pow Wow Pitch is a groundbreaking entrepreneurship program for rising Indigenous entrepreneurs. It fosters a safe, supportive, cooperative, empowering, and culturally conducive environment that comprehends and addresses the unique challenges Indigenous entrepreneurs and aspiring ones face. Pow Wow Pitch enables sustainable growth for current and prospective Indigenous entrepreneurs through comprehensive programs and resources. It also encourages community leadership via volunteerism, reflecting respect and reciprocity at the core of Pow Wow Pitch. For more information, visit Pow Wow Pitch’s website.
About EDC:
Export Development Canada (EDC) is a financial Crown corporation committed to helping Canadian companies of all sizes flourish on the global stage. As international risk experts, EDC empowers Canadian companies with the tools they need – trade knowledge, financing solutions, equity, insurance, and connections – to confidently expand their business. We remain committed to sustainable and responsible business. Our work with Indigenous businesses helps them bring their products and services to global markets, reinforcing economic self-reliance and community prosperity. For more information and to learn how we can assist your company, visit us at EDC’s website.