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Pow Wow Pitch, an Indigenous-led non-profit organization dedicated to empowering and supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs, is excited to unveil the 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Box in partnership with RBC and Mastercard. Valued at over $250, this curated collection features thirteen selected products and digital experiences created by Indigenous entrepreneurs.

The Pow Wow Pitch Box Program offers emerging Indigenous-owned businesses a platform to gain exposure, access mentorship, funding, and vital support to elevate their ventures. By sourcing products directly from these entrepreneurs, Pow Wow Pitch helps them connect with hundreds of new customers.

This year’s box features a curated mix of products and experiences spanning wellness, food, accessories, art, books, and digital offerings, highlighting the creativity and innovation of Indigenous entrepreneurs from across Turtle Island. The 2026 edition is brought to life through Lofi, an original artwork by Inuit artist and Taqqiq founder Saelym DeGrandpre. Inspired by music, creativity, and cultural identity, Lofi transforms the box into a collectible piece that celebrates contemporary Indigenous art and storytelling.

Spotlight on this year’s Pow Wow Pitch Box products:

Limited Edition Antler Pin -  Taqqiq

Taqqiq is an Inuit-owned business founded by artist and designer Saelym DeGrandpre of Baker Lake, Nunavut, and the featured artist behind the 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Box. Inspired by Inuit culture and storytelling, Taqqiq creates wearable art that celebrates identity and connection. This limited edition antler pin, crafted from caribou antler and featuring a hand-painted Inuk drum, offers a unique expression of Inuit artistry and tradition.

Rooted Cap - Tapwi

Founded by Cree-Métis entrepreneur Bobbie Racette, recipient of the 2022 RBC Entrepreneurial Icon Award at the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, Tapwi is an Indigenous lifestyle brand rooted in truth, authenticity, and purpose. The Rooted Cap reflects the importance of staying connected to who you are, where you come from, and the values that guide your path. Designed as a reminder to remain grounded while reaching for new possibilities, it celebrates personal growth, identity, and community.

Berry Patch Bundle - Bougie Birch

Founded by Mohawk entrepreneur Ashley Clark, Bougie Birch is an Indigenous-owned business dedicated to sharing culture, creativity, and connection through meaningful products and experiences. The Berry Patch Bundle features strawberry, blueberry, raspberry, and blackberry embroidered patches inspired by the importance of berries in Indigenous teachings. Representing nourishment, seasonal cycles, and the abundance of the land, these vibrant patches bring a touch of nature-inspired storytelling to jackets, bags, hats, and more.

PASS THE SAGE - Tessa Belanger 

Pass the Sage was created by Tessa Belanger, an Anishinaabeg writer, educator, and community healer from Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg, and the 2025 Pow Wow Pitch Creative Semi-Final Winner. Rooted in the belief that storytelling is medicine, Pass the Sage brings together Indigenous voices, reflections, and experiences that encourage healing, self-discovery, and connection. Through stories of strength, growth, and resilience, the book creates space for readers to honour their journeys while finding inspiration in the shared experiences of others.

Room Linen Mist in Aloe + White Tea + Soft Woods - Mashkiki Lifestyle & Co.

Mashkiki Lifestyle & Co. is an Indigenous women-owned home fragrance and lifestyle brand founded by Métis sisters Amanda Britten and Monicque Kitchen, 2025 Pow Wow Pitch Semi Finalists. Mashkiki creates small-batch products inspired by memories, land, and community. The Aloe + White Tea + Soft Woods Room Linen Mist offers a fresh and calming blend that brings warmth and balance to any space. Thoughtfully crafted to create moments of comfort and reflection, it invites the soothing essence of nature into everyday life.

Fireweed & Lavender Lotion Bar - Nature Spirit Soaps 

Nature Spirit Soaps is an Indigenous-owned business founded by Tahltan entrepreneur and 2025 Pow Wow Pitch Semi-Finalist Kim in Whitehorse, Yukon. Inspired by traditional plant knowledge and the healing properties of the land, Nature Spirit Soaps creates handcrafted bath, body, and skincare products using wild-harvested botanicals. The Fireweed & Lavender Lotion Bar features wild-harvested fireweed extracts blended with nourishing oils and butters to help soothe, moisturize, and support everyday wellness.

Beaded Keychain - Eiralize Dreams

Eiralize Dreams is an Indigenous-owned business founded by Marissa Dube of Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg and Kahnawà, and a 2023 Pow Wow Pitch Semi-Finalist. Inspired by a love of beadwork and self-expression, Eiralize Dreams creates handcrafted pieces that celebrate Indigenous artistry and creativity. This beaded keychain adds a beautiful and meaningful touch to everyday life.

Shaker Bottle - For The People

For The People is an Indigenous-owned social enterprise founded by Quinn Williams of Walpole Island First Nation. Built on the belief that wellness and community go hand in hand, For The People creates products that encourage healthy, active lifestyles. Their shaker bottle is designed for everyday use, whether mixing protein shakes, pre-workout, or staying hydrated throughout the day, making wellness accessible for the people, by the people.

Red Hamburger Relish - Rad Relish Co.

Rad Relish Co. is a Métis-owned business founded by Garrett Millsap, a 2022 Pow Wow Pitch Finalist, and inspired by a family recipe first created by Peggy Millsap in the 1940s. Rooted in tradition and reimagined for today, their Red Hamburger Relish delivers a sweet and tangy flavour while embracing innovative packaging designed to reduce environmental impact.

Limited Edition Sedna Greeting Card - Annie Pillaktuaq

Annie Pillaktuaq is an Inuk artist and recipient of the Consumer Products & Retail category at the 2025 Pow Wow Pitch Finals. Inspired by Inuit stories and traditions, Annie creates artwork that celebrates culture, connection, and the natural world. These limited edition 5 x 7 greeting cards feature her depiction of Sedna, the Inuit sea goddess, bringing a meaningful piece of Inuit artistry and storytelling to share with others.

Cellphone Cozy - Aurora Heat

Aurora Heat is a Dënesųłiné-owned business founded by Brenda Dragon of the Northwest Territories. Inspired by generations of northern knowledge and craftsmanship, Aurora Heat creates handmade products using natural materials that celebrate connection to the land. Their Custom Fur Cell Accessory combines traditional materials with contemporary style, adding a unique northern touch while showcasing the beauty and artistry of Indigenous craftsmanship.

Online Portfolio - Jamie Stevenson Photography

Jamie Stevenson Photography is owned by Tłı̨chǫ photographer Jamie Wetrade-Stevenson of Yellowknife, Northwest Territories. Through her lens, Jamie captures stories, landscapes, and moments that reflect the beauty and spirit of the North. This digital experience offers access to her online portfolio, showcasing a collection of photography that celebrates connection, culture, and the world around us.

Digital Experience - Adakai Media Group 

Adakai Media Group is an Indigenous-owned production company founded by filmmaker Wade Adakai. Through storytelling and film, Wade shares stories that uplift Indigenous voices and communities. The Hidden Blessing | MOD•SANI follows Stephanie Mitchell, founder of Mod•Sani, as she explores Diné cultural teachings and natural approaches to support her son with autism. The short film highlights the importance of embracing and celebrating neurodivergent relatives while fostering greater understanding, acceptance, and community support. 

Sales for the 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Box closed on July 24th. View these products at powwowpitch.org/box. 

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Since establishing NACCA's National Capital Region office as Pow Wow Pitch's headquarters in 2024, the partnership has created new opportunities for collaboration. Together, the organizations have hosted information sessions, engaged local communities through volunteer opportunities, and worked alongside NACCA's ADAAWE Indigenous Business Hub to support Indigenous entrepreneurs. Pow Wow Pitch also continues to utilize ADAAWE's studio space to produce educational content, including Tuesday Tips and the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast.

NACCA is supporting the Pow Wow Pitch community, sharing its expertise and leadership to advance Indigenous entrepreneurship. Team members, along with NACCA’s Indigenous Youth Business Advisory Council, will serve as mentors and judges throughout the virtual pitch competition and at live events across Canada, while NACCA's CEO will continue to provide strategic guidance through Pow Wow Pitch's Advisory Council.

Shannin Metatawabin, CEO of NACCA, shared: "At NACCA, we see Indigenous entrepreneurs as changemakers who are creating opportunity, strengthening communities, and shaping the future of Indigenous business. Our renewed partnership with Pow Wow Pitch helps fuel that momentum, connecting entrepreneurs to the resources, mentorship, and support they need to bring their visions to life and grow with confidence.”

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch added: "NACCA has been an important partner since nearly the beginning of Pow Wow Pitch, playing a vital role in helping us expand support for Indigenous entrepreneurs across Canada. This renewed multi-year partnership allows us to continue collaborating in meaningful ways, creating opportunities for entrepreneurs to access mentorship, build connections, and grow their businesses."

Together, Pow Wow Pitch and NACCA remain committed to fostering a strong network of Indigenous entrepreneurs and ensuring business owners have access to the resources, relationships, and opportunities they need to succeed.

About Pow Wow Pitch

Pow Wow Pitch is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting and funding early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island, with the co-presenting support of Mastercard and RBC. Our vision is to create a world where Indigenous entrepreneurs thrive, feeling supported, safe, and encouraged to develop their ideas and build businesses that create a positive cycle of growth. With a mission to provide resources and mentorship, we empower Indigenous entrepreneurs while amplifying their stories to inspire future generations and foster a more inclusive world.

For more information, visit powwowpitch.org.

About NACCA

NACCA, the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association, is a network of over 50 Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs) dedicated to stimulating economic growth for all Indigenous people in Canada. These efforts increase social and economic self-reliance and sustainability for Indigenous people and communities nationwide. IFIs have provided nearly 55,000 loans totaling more than $3.56 billion to First Nations, Métis, and Inuit-owned businesses. NACCA celebrates 30 years in 2026. 

For more information, visit nacca.ca.

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As Pow Wow Pitch enters its 11th season, this continued collaboration reflects a shared commitment to creating more opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs to strengthen their businesses, access mentorship, and explore pathways into international markets.

Through EDC’s support, Pow Wow Pitch will continue to expand its virtual programming, deliver in-person experiences in communities across Turtle Island, and provide Indigenous entrepreneurs with tools and resources to help grow their businesses with confidence.

EDC team members will once again participate as judges for the Pow Wow Pitch Indigenous Business Pitch Competition and support entrepreneurs through mentorship and knowledge-sharing opportunities throughout the season. EDC will also continue presenting the Export Award as part of the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, recognizing an Indigenous entrepreneur demonstrating strong potential for growth beyond local markets.

Anthony Wingham, Co Founder of Nuez Acres® and a semi finalist in the 2021 Pow Wow Pitch competition, credits the experience with helping shape the company’s growth and export journey: “Pow Wow Pitch gave us more than a platform to share Nuez Acres®. It helped connect us to a community of Indigenous entrepreneurs, mentors, and partners who understood both the opportunity and the challenges of building a business. Through that journey, connections with organizations like EDC helped us think bigger about export, growth, and what was possible beyond our local market. It is exciting to see this partnership continue so more Indigenous entrepreneurs can access mentorship, relationships, and support as they grow their businesses.”

Donna St. Louis, National Lead, Indigenous Business, Inclusive Trade at EDC, shared the importance of continuing the partnership: “Indigenous entrepreneurs are building innovative businesses that are creating new opportunities within their communities and beyond. Through our ongoing collaboration with Pow Wow Pitch, we’re proud to help entrepreneurs access the knowledge, connections, and support they need as they explore growth in international markets.”

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, emphasized the value of the collaboration: “We’re grateful to continue working alongside EDC to support Indigenous entrepreneurs as they explore new opportunities for growth and expansion. This partnership helps provide entrepreneurs with access to mentorship, business knowledge, and encouragement as they build businesses rooted in their values, communities, and long-term goals.”

Grounded in a shared respect for Indigenous cultures, traditions, and entrepreneurship, Pow Wow Pitch and EDC are working together to support Indigenous business owners through accessible programming, relationship-building, and practical business supports. Together, the partnership helps create more opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs to strengthen their businesses and pursue new opportunities across Canada and internationally.

About Pow Wow Pitch

Pow Wow Pitch is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting and funding early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island, with the co-presenting support of Mastercard and RBC. Our vision is to create a world where Indigenous entrepreneurs thrive, feeling supported, safe, and encouraged to develop their ideas and build businesses that create a positive cycle of growth. With a mission to provide resources and mentorship, we empower Indigenous entrepreneurs while amplifying their stories to inspire future generations and foster a more inclusive world.

For more information, visit powwowpitch.org.

Media Contact
Destiny Maluga
Communications Coordinator, Pow Wow Pitch
hello@powwowpitch.org

About Export Development Canada

Export Development Canada (EDC) is a financial Crown corporation dedicated to helping Canadian businesses make an impact at home and abroad. EDC has the financial products and knowledge Canadian companies need to confidently enter new markets, reduce financial risk and grow their business as they go from local to global. Together, EDC and Canadian companies are building a more prosperous, stronger and sustainable economy for all Canadians.

For more information and to learn how we can assist your company, call us at 1-800-229-0575 or visit  www.edc.ca.

Media Contact
Media
Export Development Canada
1-888-222-4065
media@edc.ca

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Since 2022, Aritzia has supported the Fashion category in the Pow Wow Pitch Semi-Finals, as well as the Aritzia Indigenous Fashion Grants, providing funding to emerging designers. Building on this foundation and Aritzia’s belief in empowerment, the Aritzia Indigenous Grant will once again be awarded to eligible self-identifying Indigenous women and two-spirit entrepreneurs advancing to the 2026 Grand Finale.

This continued expansion reflects a long-term investment in Indigenous entrepreneurs who are building businesses rooted in creativity, culture, and community. By extending support beyond fashion, the partnership acknowledges the breadth of innovation taking place across Turtle Island and ensures more founders have access to resources at a critical stage of growth.

Together, Pow Wow Pitch and Aritzia are strengthening pathways for Indigenous women and two-spirit entrepreneurs to grow their businesses, reach new audiences, and build sustainable ventures.  

“Our work with Pow Wow Pitch reflects Aritzia’s commitment to elevating the lives of women and girls,” said Corinne Kepper, Vice President of Corporate Giving at Aritzia. “By extending the Aritzia Entrepreneur Grant across all categories, we’re supporting Indigenous women and two-spirit entrepreneurs at a pivotal stage in their journey. It’s about ensuring more founders have access to both funding and support as they move their businesses forward.” 

“This partnership continues to uplift and celebrate Indigenous women and two-spirit entrepreneurs,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “With Aritzia’s support, more founders are being recognized for the brilliance of their businesses. Together, we are creating space for Indigenous entrepreneurs to thrive, share their stories, and grow in ways that honour who they are and where they come from across Turtle Island.” 

Through this partnership, Aritzia and Pow Wow Pitch continue to expand a national network of support for Indigenous entrepreneurship, grounded in collaboration and long-term commitment.

About Pow Wow Pitch 

Pow Wow Pitch is a program for emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, which provides a safe, supportive, collaborative, empowering and culturally supportive environment that addresses the unique challenges of Indigenous entrepreneurship. Pow Wow Pitch enhances, develops and accelerates the growth of current and aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs in a sustainable way through programs and resources. Community leadership through volunteerism is promoted as a reflection of respect and reciprocity as the foundation of the Pow Wow Pitch.

For more information, visit powwowpitch.org.

About Aritzia

Aritzia is a design house with an innovative global platform. Creators and purveyors of Everyday Luxury, Aritzia is home to an extensive portfolio of exclusive brands for every function and individual aesthetic. 

Founded in 1984 in Vancouver, Canada, Aritzia prides itself on creating immersive, highly personalized shopping experiences at aritzia.com and in its 115+ boutiques throughout North America — for everyone, everywhere.

About Aritzia Giving

As a women-led company, Aritzia Giving is dedicated to powering impactful programs to elevate the lives of women and girls. Through volunteering and mentoring, financial contributions and product donation, we continuously invest our energy, intention and resources to drive positive change, living into our ethos Women to the Power of Women — or Women ^ Women. ​

We are of women, for women, supporting women. ​
Because Women to the Power of Women can change the world​.

Visit aritzia.com to learn more.

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Pow Wow Pitch, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs, is proud to announce its first-time collaboration with the Gesgapegiag Mawiomi PowWow, taking place in Gesgapegiag, Quebec on July 17 and 18, 2026.

The Gesgapegiag Mawiomi PowWow brings together community, culture, and celebration through dance, song, and gathering. This year, Pow Wow Pitch will be on-site to spotlight Indigenous entrepreneurs, vendors, and creators attending the powwow.

Entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to pitch their business or idea live for a chance to win cash prizes and gain support from a growing community.

How It Works

Indigenous entrepreneurs can pre-register for limited pitch spots at powwowpitch.org/gesgapegiag, with additional spots available on-site for those who want to sign up the day of. Entrepreneurs will have 1 minute to present their idea or business for a chance to win.

The top 10 pitchers will be paired with mentors to refine their final pitch before presenting to the judges. Prizes at Gesgapegiag include $5,000 for 1st place, $2,500 for 2nd place, $1,000 for 3rd place, $500 for the Youth prize, and $500 for the Fan Favourite. The 1st place winner will also receive a Golden Ticket to the 2026 Grand Finale for a chance to win the $25,000 Grand Prize.

“We are honoured to partner with the Gesgapegiag Mawiomi PowWow for the first time,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “Bringing Pow Wow Pitch to Gesgapegiag allows us to create opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs to share their ideas, grow their businesses, and be supported in a meaningful way that honours our collective success.”

“We are excited to welcome Pow Wow Pitch to Gesgapegiag for the first time,” said Amanda Larocque, PowWow Coordinator. “It’s an honour to host this experience within our First Nation, creating a space where entrepreneurs and community members can come together to share their gifts, build confidence, and celebrate the creativity and spirit of our people alongside our powwow.”

Join us at the Gesgapegiag Mawiomi Pow Wow Pitch and pitch your business for a chance to win. This is an opportunity to share your story, connect with community, and take your next step as an entrepreneur.

All participants who pitch will gain access to the Pow Wow Pitch community, receive free entry into the Indigenous Startup Program, and receive a free .CA domain courtesy of CIRA.Visit powwowpitch.org/gesgapegiag to learn more and pre-register.

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Through this partnership, Indigenous entrepreneurs from across New Brunswick will have the opportunity to pitch their businesses in-person, connect with mentors, and compete for $9,500 in cash prizes.

Women in Business New Brunswick will support the event through mentorship, judging, and engagement with participants on-site. Through its programs and services, WBNB works with women entrepreneurs across the province, including Indigenous women at various stages of their business journey.

“Women in Business New Brunswick is proud to support Indigenous entrepreneurs through partnerships like this,” said Nacole Charlie, Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs Development Officer at Women in Business New Brunswick. “Pow Wow Pitch creates a space for entrepreneurs to share their ideas, build confidence, and connect with others.”

“We’re excited to work with Women in Business New Brunswick as we bring Pow Wow Pitch to Sitansisk Powwow,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “This work opens more doors for entrepreneurs to access support and take the next step in their business journey. It’s especially important that they have local support to continue building momentum long after our programming wraps up in community.”

Indigenous entrepreneurs who participate in Sitansisk Pow Wow Pitch will also gain access to Pow Wow Pitch programming, including mentorship, resources, and opportunities to grow their businesses beyond the event.
Visit powwowpitch.org/sitansisk to learn more and pre-register to pitch.

About Pow Wow Pitch

Pow Wow Pitch is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting and funding early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island, with the co-presenting support of Mastercard and RBC. Our vision is to create a world where Indigenous entrepreneurs thrive, feeling supported, safe, and encouraged to develop their ideas and build businesses that create a positive cycle of growth. With a mission to provide resources and mentorship, we empower Indigenous entrepreneurs while amplifying their stories to inspire future generations and foster a more inclusive world.

For more information, visit powwowpitch.org.

About Women in Business New Brunswick

Women in Business New Brunswick (WBNB) supports women entrepreneurs across the province with training, resources, and programming tailored to meet their unique needs. Through inclusive and community-driven initiatives, WBNB is committed to helping women — particularly those from underrepresented groups — start, grow, and lead successful businesses.

For more information, visit wbnb-fanb.ca/en. 

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This collaboration will support Indigenous entrepreneurs from across New Brunswick as they gather to pitch their businesses during the Sitansisk Powwow. Participants will have the opportunity to present their business ideas, connect with mentors, and compete for $9,500 in cash prizes.

JEDI will contribute to the experience through mentorship, judging, and support for entrepreneurs throughout the event. As an Indigenous organization focused on advancing economic participation in New Brunswick, JEDI continues to play a key role in supporting Indigenous business development across the province.

“At JEDI, we are committed to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs as they build and grow their businesses,” said Stanley Barnaby, CEO of JEDI. “Opportunities like Pow Wow Pitch create space for entrepreneurs to share their ideas, connect with others, and take meaningful steps forward. When entrepreneurs are supported in this way, it creates lasting ripple effects throughout their families and communities.”

“We’re grateful to continue working alongside JEDI,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “This fourth year of partnership reflects a shared commitment to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs in New Brunswick, ensuring opportunities are not just available, but accessible, meaningful, and rooted in community.”

Indigenous entrepreneurs participating in Sitansisk Pow Wow Pitch will also gain access to Pow Wow Pitch programming, including mentorship, resources, and opportunities to grow their businesses beyond the event.
Visit powwowpitch.org/sitansisk to learn more and pre-register to pitch.

About Pow Wow Pitch 

Pow Wow Pitch is an entrepreneurship program for emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, which provides a safe, supportive, collaborative, empowering and culturally supportive environment that addresses the unique challenges of Indigenous entrepreneurs and aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs. Pow Wow Pitch enhances, develops and accelerates the growth for current and aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs in a sustainable way through programs and resources. Community leadership through volunteerism is promoted as a reflection of respect and reciprocity as the foundation of the Pow Wow Pitch.

For more information, visit powwowpitch.org.

About JEDI

The Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) is an Indigenous organization dedicated to supporting Indigenous participation in New Brunswick's economy.  JEDI began in 1995 as a tripartite partnership between Indigenous communities in New Brunswick, the Government of Canada, and the Government of New Brunswick. In 2009, JEDI was incorporated as an independent, non-profit organization and over the years JEDI has grown into an Indigenous organization focused on working closely with its partners from Indigenous communities, organizations, government, and the private sector to foster Indigenous economic development in New Brunswick.

For more information, visit jedinb.ca.

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Pow Wow Pitch, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs, co-presented by Mastercard and RBC, proudly announces its partnership to host an Indigenous Business Pitch Competition at the Sitansisk Powwow, taking place in St. Mary’s First Nation, New Brunswick on June 19 & 20, 2026.

Sitansisk Powwow is a vibrant gathering that celebrates culture, community, and connection. This annual event brings together dancers, drummers, vendors, and visitors to honour traditions and showcase the strength and creativity of Indigenous communities in the region.

St. Mary’s First Nation will host Pow Wow Pitch as part of this year’s powwow, creating space to spotlight Indigenous vendors, entrepreneurs, artists, creators, and innovators. New Brunswick-based Indigenous entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to pitch their businesses for a chance to win $9,500 in cash prizes and gain valuable exposure.

The Sitansisk Pow Wow Pitch is presented locally by the Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI)  in partnership with Women in Business New Brunswick (WBNB). Their collaboration supports on-site mentoring, judging, and ongoing support for participants.

How It Works

To enter, New Brunswick-based Indigenous entrepreneurs can pre-register for limited spots here: powwowpitch.org/sitansisk, with a limited number of spots reserved for those who arrive on-site and want to pitch. Entrepreneurs will have 1 minute to present their ideas or businesses for a chance to win.

The top 10 pitchers will be paired with mentors to refine their final pitch before presenting to the judges. Prizes at Sitansisk include $5,000 for 1st place, $2,500 for 2nd place, $1,000 for 3rd place, $500 for the Youth prize, and $500 for the Fan Favourite. The 1st place winner will also receive a Golden Ticket to the 2026 Grand Finale for a chance to win the $25,000 Grand Prize.

“We’re proud to welcome Pow Wow Pitch to Sitansisk 26th Powwow and create space for Indigenous entrepreneurs to share their ideas and grow their businesses,” said Nicole Carty, Powwow Committee Coordinator for Sitansisk. “This opportunity brings together community, culture, and entrepreneurship in a meaningful way, and we’re excited to see participants share their stories.”

“We’re so honoured to be part of Sitansisk Powwow and celebrate the incredible Indigenous entrepreneurs in New Brunswick,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “These moments are about fun, connection, and possibility, they create space for entrepreneurs to be seen, supported, and celebrated. We’re excited to connect with participants and continue growing this vibrant entrepreneurial community together.”

Join us at Sitansisk Powwow and pitch your business for a chance to win cash prizes. This is your opportunity to share your story, connect with community, and take the next step in your business journey.

All Indigenous entrepreneurs who pitch will be welcomed into the Pow Wow Pitch community and gain access to a free Indigenous Startup Program, opportunities to be considered for the annual Pow Wow Pitch Box, and a free .CA domain courtesy of CIRA.

Visit powwowpitch.org/sitansisk to learn more and pre-register to pitch.

*This opportunity is open to Indigenous entrepreneurs in New Brunswick.

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MINI TIPI is a Canadian lifestyle brand that designs and manufactures its products locally in Gatineau, Canada, with a dedicated team of 18 employees. The brand stands apart as a leader in creating authentic Indigenous designs, offering both signature in-house designs and meaningful collaborations with Indigenous artists across Turtle Island. Through these designs, MINI TIPI ensures thoughtful representation while celebrating Indigenous arts and cultures. With its artist royalty program and giveback initiatives, the brand has become recognized for its strong artistic partnerships, community involvement, and commitment to local manufacturing.   

As part of this ongoing collaboration, MINI TIPI will contribute to Pow Wow Pitch programming by participating in the Indigenous Entrepreneur Bootcamp, sharing knowledge and guidance with emerging entrepreneurs. Co-Founder Trisha Pitura will also return as an Alumni Choice judge during the Semi-Finals, helping select a finalist to advance to the Grand Finale.

Trisha Pitura, Co-Founder of MINI TIPI, shared, “We’re excited to be part of Pow Wow Pitch again this year. Having pitched ourselves, we understand how valuable this experience can be. Pow Wow Pitch creates opportunities for entrepreneurs to step forward, share their ideas, and grow in ways that stay with them long after the competition.”

Mélanie Bernard, Co-Founder of MINI TIPI, added, “Our continued partnership with Pow Wow Pitch reflects our commitment to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs and contributing to a strong and connected business community. It’s important to us to stay involved and give back in ways that support others on their journey.”

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, shared, “Working with our alumni in this way speaks to the strength of the community we are building together. We’re grateful to Trisha and Mélanie for continuing to show up and support others. MINI TIPI represents what it means to grow and give back.”

Together, Pow Wow Pitch and MINI TIPI continue to create opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs to build, connect, and share their stories. This collaboration reflects the value of Indigenous-led partnerships and the strength that comes from supporting one another.

About Pow Wow Pitch

Pow Wow Pitch is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting and funding early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island, with the co-presenting support of Mastercard and RBC. Our vision is to create a world where Indigenous entrepreneurs thrive, feeling supported, safe, and encouraged to develop their ideas and build businesses that create a positive cycle of growth. With a mission to provide resources and mentorship, we empower Indigenous entrepreneurs while amplifying their stories to inspire future generations and foster a more inclusive world.

For more information, visit powwowpitch.org.

About MINI TIPI

MINI TIPI is a Canadian brand which operates and manufactures its products locally in Gatineau, Canada with their team of eleven. Setting themselves apart by being leaders in creating authentic Indigenous designs and collaborating with Indigenous artists to create proper representation and celebrating Indigenous arts and cultures. Through their artist royalty program and giveback initiatives, MINI TIPI has become leaders in artistic collaborations, community involvement, and local manufacturing.

For more information, visit minitipi.ca.

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