As a Friend Partner, Jelly Marketing will continue to provide digital marketing expertise and support to Pow Wow Pitch. This collaboration helps extend the reach of programming and elevate the stories of Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island.

“Continuing our partnership with Pow Wow Pitch is deeply meaningful,” said Darian Kovacs, Principal of Jelly Marketing. “Supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs through accessible digital education remains a priority for our team. Together, we are creating opportunities for individuals to build confidence in their marketing skills and share their stories in ways that reflect who they are and where they come from.”

Pow Wow Pitch echoed this sentiment. “We are grateful to Darian and the Jelly Marketing team for their continued collaboration and support,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director. “Access to digital skills is essential for entrepreneurs building and growing their businesses today. Through this partnership, we are able to provide meaningful learning opportunities that support entrepreneurs at different stages of their journey.”

This ongoing partnership reflects a shared commitment to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs through education, mentorship, and access to practical tools. By working together, Pow Wow Pitch and Jelly Marketing continue to create opportunities for entrepreneurs to grow their businesses and share their work with wider audiences.

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 Jelly Marketing

Jelly Marketing is an award-winning digital marketing and public relations agency based in Fort Langley, British Columbia, helping brands grow their visibility across North America. Founded in 2013, Jelly delivers integrated strategies that combine PR, social media, SEO, and digital advertising to drive measurable results. The agency blends creative storytelling with data-driven insights to build campaigns that connect with the right audiences and elevate brand awareness. Jelly partners closely with clients of all sizes to create impactful marketing that scales and delivers real business growth.

For more information about Jelly Marketing, visit jellymarketing.ca.

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Futurpreneur, Canada’s only national non-profit organization dedicated to supporting young entrepreneurs aged 18 to 39, by providing loans, mentorship, and resources to help entrepreneurs start, buy, or grow their businesses. Through its continued collaboration with Pow Wow Pitch, Futurpreneur continues to empower Indigenous entrepreneurs across the country.

As a Friend Partner, Futurpreneur will continue its involvement by engaging team members as mentors and judges for Pow Wow Pitch’s virtual pitch competition and at in-person Pow Wow Pitch events at powwows across Canada.

Through this partnership, Pow Wow Pitch will continue to connect entrepreneurs to Futurpreneur’s Indigenous Entrepreneur Startup Program. Participants can access loans, financial literacy workshops, mentorship, and business planning support. These resources continue to support Indigenous entrepreneurs as they start, buy, or grow their businesses.

“This partnership creates meaningful opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs to access mentorship, funding, and business support,” said Holly Atjecoutay, Head of Inclusive Impact and Director of Indigenous and Northern Entrepreneurs. “When organizations come together with a shared commitment to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs, it creates stronger pathways for young business owners to move forward with confidence.”

“We are pleased to continue working with Futurpreneur to support Pow Wow Pitch entrepreneurs,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “Access to mentorship and resources plays an important role in helping entrepreneurs build and sustain their businesses. We value Futurpreneur’s continued partnership in supporting young Indigenous entrepreneurs.”

Together, Futurpreneur and Pow Wow Pitch continue to create opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs to access support, build their businesses, and strengthen their communities through entrepreneurship.

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 Futurpreneur’s Indigenous Entrepreneur Startup Program

At Futurpreneur, we believe in building trust and leveraging lived experience to support young Indigenous entrepreneurs. Futurpreneur’s Indigenous Entrepreneur Startup Program (IESP) works with young and aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs, ages 18-39, to start, buy, or grow their own businesses. Offering access to a loan up to $75,000 with expert mentoring and resources, Futurpreneur is here to help young Indigenous entrepreneurs reach their business goals and strengthen their communities.

For more information about the Indigenous Entrepreneur Startup Program, visit

https://futurpreneur.ca/en/offering/indigenous-entrepreneur-startup/.

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Pow Wow Pitch, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs, co-presented in partnership with RBC and Mastercard, announced the selection of artist Saelym DeGrandpre’s piece ‘Lofi’ as the official art for the 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Box, a mailer box featuring quality products created by early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs.

Pow Wow Pitch supports emerging Indigenous-owned businesses by creating opportunities for visibility, recognition, and access to mentorship, funding, and community support to grow their ventures. Since launching in 2021, the Pow Wow Pitch Box program has showcased both digital and physical products from Indigenous entrepreneurs, connecting them with new audiences across the country.

Each year, Pow Wow Pitch collaborates with Indigenous artists to bring the Box design to life. In 2026, Saelym DeGrandpre was selected for her distinctive artistic approach and her work advancing Inuit representation within contemporary design.

About Saelym DeGrandpre

Saelym DeGrandpre is an urban Inuk graphic designer, artist, and mother based in Ottawa, Ontario.Saelym graduated from Algonquin College with a General Arts and Science in Aboriginal Studies.

Saelym’s work is rooted in a desire to increase Inuit representation in media, creating space for people to see themselves reflected through design and storytelling. Through her graphic design practice, she has collaborated with organizations including APTN, Know History, Canada’s History Society, Pinnguaq, Pauktuutit, Tungasuvvingat Inuit, Connected North, Winterlude, and more.

Saelym’s multidisciplinary practice spans graphic design, carving, digital illustration, printmaking, and jewelry making. Drawing inspiration from Inuit legends and teachings, femininity, contemporary art, and spirituality, she incorporates Tunniit, or traditional Inuit tattoos, as a form of visual storytelling that conveys energy, sound, and emotion while bringing Inuit culture to the forefront of design.

About ‘Lofi’

‘Lofi’ is a contemporary digital artwork that explores the connection between music, creativity, and cultural identity. Inspired by the creation of her first Inuk drum, the piece reflects how rhythm and sound shape both artistic practice and personal growth. In Inuit culture, music holds deep meaning, from throat singing and lullabies to drum dancing and storytelling that marks seasonal changes like the return of the sun.

Through ‘Lofi’, Saelym reimagines music interfaces through an Inuit lens, blending cultural elements with modern design. The work reflects her use of music, particularly lo-fi, as a tool to focus, create, and fully immerse herself in her process.

Saelym’s work reflects her journey as an Indigenous entrepreneur learning to create on her own terms. By embracing her natural creative rhythm, she has developed an approach that prioritizes authenticity, cultural connection, and sustainability.

Creating Space Through Entrepreneurship

“Indigenous entrepreneurship means creating space for our stories, our representation, and our design perspectives to be seen, valued, and sustained,” Saelym shared. “Music has become a tool that supports my creativity and allows me to create work I am proud to share.”

On her collaboration with the Pow Wow Pitch Box, she adds, “I’m honoured to have my work featured on the Pow Wow Pitch Box. Being part of something that uplifts Indigenous entrepreneurs and creatives means a lot to me. It’s important that our stories and perspectives are represented across all spaces, including design.”

“Pow Wow Pitch is proud to feature Saelym DeGrandpre in our 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Box,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “We first saw Saelym’s work last year when she was a 2025 Semi-Finalist, and we are always thrilled to collaborate with Indigenous entrepreneurs who have been part of our programming. This year marks our first collaboration with an Inuk artist for the Pow Wow Pitch Box. Through Lofi, Saelym brings Inuit culture to life in a contemporary design. We are honoured to showcase her work and to continue our commitment to increasing visibility for Indigenous artists across Turtle Island.”

With ‘Lofi’, Saelym’s work will help inspire and uplift a new wave of Indigenous entrepreneurs, connecting creativity, culture, and business through the Pow Wow Pitch Box.

Applications to be featured in the 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Box will open on April 17, 2026.

To view more of Saelym’s work, visit Taqqiq.

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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 Mastercard and RBC, and in partnership with Sklar Wilton and Altis Recruitment, these awards stand as a testament to the innovation and cultural richness of Indigenous entrepreneurship.

Eligible applicants must be Indigenous entrepreneurs aged 18 or older who have been operating their business in Canada for at least three years. Nominations and applications will remain open until June 8, 2026, culminating in the announcement and celebration of recipients during a digitally broadcast awards presentation in November 2026.

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, shared, “As we celebrate another year of the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, we are excited to honour Indigenous entrepreneurs whose vision and dedication strengthen our communities and inspire the next generation. These Awards recognize the exceptional leadership and entrepreneurial spirit that set a standard of excellence across Indigenous business and drive our communities forward.”

Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs, Policy and Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard, Canada shared, “Supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs is about  sharing their stories and raising awareness of the actions needed to ensure they can succeed and thrive. Together with Pow Wow Pitch, we are proud to support opportunities that strengthen communities and shape a more inclusive and prosperous digital economy across Canada.”

Chinyere Eni, Head of RBC Origins, emphasized the significance of the 2026 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, stating: “Indigenous entrepreneurs play an important role in building Canada’s economy and fostering the growth of communities across the country. Their leadership and dedication continue to shape businesses that reflect culture, community, and long-term change for generations to come. We are proud to support the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards as part of our ongoing commitment to recognizing and celebrating the achievements of Indigenous business owners.”

Libier Gomez, Managing Director of Sklar Wilton, shares, “Indigenous entrepreneurs are redefining what leadership looks like by building businesses rooted in culture and community. Sklar Wilton is honoured to support the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards and celebrate the visionaries shaping more inclusive and thriving communities across Turtle Island.”

Kathryn Tremblay, Co-founder and Owner of Altis Recruitment, shared, “There is so much to celebrate in the work Indigenous entrepreneurs are doing across Canada. We look forward to recognizing business leaders whose success reflects commitment, creativity, and community leadership.”

The Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards are a testament to the vitality of Indigenous entrepreneurship, celebrating entrepreneurs and supporting the growth and success of Indigenous businesses. To nominate or submit an application, please visit powwowpitch.org/awards.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact:

Destiny Maluga at destiny@powwowpitch.org

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Launched in 2022, Tech 4 Youth was created to help remove barriers to entrepreneurship by ensuring Indigenous youth have access to the tools they need to grow their businesses and bring their ideas to life. As the primary partner supporting the Pow Wow Pitch Youth category, Best Buy Canada also contributes mentorship to youth participants, helping them refine their one minute pitches for the opportunity to compete for cash prizes.

The Tech 4 Youth program welcomes applications from Pow Wow Pitch Alumni and current year participants aged 21 and under from across Canada. Through the program, selected recipients will receive technology to support launching, managing, and expanding their businesses.

Each year, applicants represent a wide range of industries including creative ventures, technology, education, and community focused businesses. Their ideas reflect the diversity and innovation of the next generation of Indigenous entrepreneurs, many of whom are building businesses rooted in culture, community, and positive change.

Applications for the 2026 Tech 4 Youth program open April 2, 2026 and close June 30, 2026. Selected recipients will be announced in the Fall, 2026.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the Tech 4 Youth program, applicants must:

• Identity as First Nations, Inuit, Métis, or Native American
• Reside in Canada
• Be between the ages of 10 and 21 (youth under 18 must provide parental or guardian consent as part of the application process)
• Have previously participated in the Pow Wow Pitch Competition or plan to pitch in the current year
  

Entrepreneurs at all stages, from early ideas to established small businesses, are encouraged to apply. 

How to Participate

Eligible applicants can submit a Request 4 Tech application to access technology that supports launching or growing their business.

Applications open: April 2, 2026
Deadline: June 30, 2026
Recipient announcement: Fall 2026

Young Indigenous entrepreneurs interested in applying can submit their application here. 

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Indigenous vendors, artists, and entrepreneurs from both Canada and the United States are encouraged to pitch their businesses and ideas, virtually or in-person at various powwows, for an opportunity to join the Pow Wow Pitch training and mentorship program, and to vie for cash prizes.

“As we enter the eleventh year of Pow Wow Pitch, our pitch program continues to be a vibrant space where Indigenous entrepreneurs can share their ideas, gain momentum, and turn vision into action,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder and Chair of Pow Wow Pitch. “The pitch competition celebrates the creativity, determination, and leadership of Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island, and the thriving businesses and communities they continue to build.”

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, added: “Every year, Indigenous entrepreneurs show up with business ideas rooted in who they are and the communities they come from, and a clear vision for where they’re headed. We’re honoured to welcome another year of bold thinkers and doers. At Pow Wow Pitch, we’re proud to create a platform that builds confidence, strengthens community support, and sets entrepreneurs up for long-term success. Community over competition, always. Together, we are paving a path for generations to come.” 

Here’s how it works:

Virtual Pitch: Entrepreneurs can submit a one-minute video pitch virtually between April 1 and June 1 at powwowpitch.org/pitch. Pow Wow Pitch will select the top 100+ Indigenous entrepreneurs as semi-finalists, providing them with mentorship and pitch training. Semi-finalists will then compete in virtual semi-finals for the opportunity to receive a $1,000 semi-finals cash award and a spot in the Grand Finale.

In-Person: This year’s Pow Wow Pitch Trail features three in-person Pow Wow Pitch events at powwows across Canada. At each stop, entrepreneurs can share their business or idea live, connect with mentors in a supportive and celebratory environment, and compete for cash prizes. The first place winner at each event will earn a golden ticket to the Grand Finale. Watch for updates and upcoming live pitch events on our website at powwowpitch.org/pitch. 

Grand Finale: On October 21, 2026, the top entrepreneurs from both virtual semi-finals and the first place winners from in-person events will pitch to a panel of judges at the Grand Finale for a chance to win the following top prizes: an Alumni Choice Prize of $5,000, 3rd Place Prize of $5,000, 2nd Place Prize of $10,000, and 1st Place Prize of $25,000.

All participating entrepreneurs will join a thriving community of Indigenous entrepreneurs, get a free pass to all 2026 Pow Wow Pitch learning opportunities, gain access to free training and support, and receive a free .CA domain from CIRA.

Last year’s Grand Prize winner, Kendal Garlow, co-founder of SproutSync Ltd., shares inspiring advice for emerging entrepreneurs: “When the going gets tough, the tough gets you going. As an Indigenous entrepreneur who still feels like I’m at the start of my journey, when things get hard, or you run into obstacles, keep going. There is a space for you, and if Indigenizing the business world is something you want to do, you can absolutely do it.”

Pow Wow Pitch gratefully acknowledges all of its partners for their unwavering support. Co-presenting partners, Mastercard and RBC have provided significant multi-year backing that empower Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island, fostering innovation, mentorship, and opportunity. Their commitment ensures that Indigenous entrepreneurs can turn bold ideas into thriving businesses.  

Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs, Policy and Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard, Canada, added, “Marking five years of partnership with Pow Wow Pitch, we’re honoured to continue supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs and contributing to resilient economic growth within Indigenous communities. This collaboration reflects Mastercard’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, digital economy that enables Indigenous entrepreneurs to thrive.”

Chinyere Eni, Head of RBC Origins, commented on the launch of this year’s Pow Wow Pitch programming: “At RBC, we value the role Indigenous entrepreneurs play in strengthening communities through business. We are proud to support Pow Wow Pitch as we aim to advance economic reconciliation and contribute to the prosperity of Indigenous entrepreneurs across different sectors.”

Pow Wow Pitch invites all Indigenous entrepreneurs to take part in this year’s competition and join a growing community of innovators, creators, and business leaders across Turtle Island. Whether pitching virtually or on the Pow Wow Pitch Trail, participants will gain mentorship, build confidence, and showcase their ideas to a national audience, all while celebrating their culture and the communities that inspire them. Don’t miss this opportunity to bring your vision to life, connect with fellow entrepreneurs, and compete for over $100,000 in cash prizes. 

Visit powwowpitch.org/pitch to learn more and submit your 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 Mastercard (NYSE: MA)

Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re building a resilient economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realize their greatest potential.

For more information, visit www.mastercard.ca

For media inquiries, please contract:

Helena Wade, Manager, Communications, Mastercard| helena.wade@mastercard.com

About RBC

Royal Bank of Canada is a global financial institution with a purpose-driven, principles-led approach to delivering leading performance. Our success comes from the 101,000+ employees who leverage their imaginations and insights to bring our vision, values and strategy to life so we can help our clients thrive and communities prosper. As Canada’s biggest bank and one of the largest in the world, based on market capitalization, we have a diversified business model with a focus on innovation and providing exceptional experiences to our more than 19 million clients in Canada, the U.S. and 27 other countries. Learn more at rbc.com.‎

We are proud to support a broad range of community initiatives through donations, community investments and employee volunteer activities. See how at rbc.com/peopleandplanet.

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Best Buy Canada will once again support the Youth category during the Pow Wow Pitch Semi Finals, offering mentorship to Indigenous youth under 21 as they refine their business ideas and strengthen their pitches. Best Buy Canada representatives will also participate in the adjudication process, helping select the recipient of the 1,000 dollar Youth Prize, who will advance to compete at the Grand Finale.

Through the Tech 4 Youth program, Indigenous youth entrepreneurs from across Canada can submit a Request for Tech outlining the equipment they need to support their business operations. Together, Pow Wow Pitch and Best Buy Canada will review applications and provide selected recipients with the technology required to enhance their digital presence, streamline operations, and accelerate growth. The 2026 Tech 4 Youth program will launch this spring.

Over the past several years, the Tech 4 Youth program has placed critical technology in the hands of young Indigenous entrepreneurs, helping them overcome digital barriers and build confidence in their entrepreneurial journeys. From laptops and creative tools to essential business equipment, the program continues to ensure youth have practical support as they take their next steps.

In addition to technology access, Best Buy Canada will continue amplifying youth voices by providing gift cards to Tech 4 Youth recipients who share how their equipment will advance their business goals. These stories highlight the determination and creativity of Indigenous youth entrepreneurs and inspire others to pursue their own ventures.

“We are proud to continue our partnership with Pow Wow Pitch and support Indigenous youth entrepreneurs as they develop their ideas and leadership skills,” said Karen Arsenault, Head of Social Impact at Best Buy Canada. “Our employees value the opportunity to mentor these young founders and contribute to their growth.”

“Youth carry forward the vision and strength of our communities,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “By investing in their ideas today and ensuring they have access to the right tools and guidance, we are supporting not only individual businesses but the future of Indigenous entrepreneurship.”

Through this continued partnership, Best Buy Canada and Pow Wow Pitch remain committed to ensuring Indigenous youth have meaningful access to technology, mentorship, and opportunities that help transform their ideas into sustainable businesses.

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 Best Buy Canada

A wholly owned subsidiary of Best Buy Co., Inc. (NYSE:BBY), Best Buy Canada Ltd. is one of Canada’s largest and most innovative omnichannel retailers, operating the Best Buy, Best Buy Mobile, and Geek Squad ( www.geeksquad.ca ) brands. With over 160 Best Buy and Best Buy Mobile stores across Canada and an expanded assortment of lifestyle products offered through BestBuy.ca, Best Buy is a leader in total retail, catering to customers how, when, and where they want to shop. Best Buy Canada is committed to making a positive impact in the community with programs and partnerships that support youth to connect with technology to advance their education.

For more information, visit bestbuy.ca.

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Pow Wow Pitch, a non profit organization dedicated to supporting and uplifting Indigenous entrepreneurs, announced the selection of ‘Cornhusk Dolls’ created by Alanah Jewell as the Official Art of the 2026 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards.

About ‘Cornhusk Dolls’

The illustration ‘Cornhusk Dolls’ reflects a personal and cultural journey for the artist. Inspired by the traditional corn husk dolls that Alanah grew up seeing, the piece represents the moment when learning the teachings and creating one herself brought a deeper connection to her culture and community.

The artwork speaks to the role that cultural knowledge plays in creation. When teachings, protocols, and ways of life are carried into creative work, each piece becomes an extension of culture and identity.

“Let our way of life guide your practice. When you embed cultural teachings, protocol, and beliefs into your work, your creations become an extension of your culture, reflective of the love, care, time, and effort you put into it,” shared Alanah Jewell.

Through this work, the artist reflects on the shared experience many Indigenous entrepreneurs carry in their journeys. Building something meaningful often begins with a moment of cultural connection that opens the door to creativity and purpose.

Indigenous entrepreneurs understand the responsibility of carrying generations of stories, teachings, and ways of life through their work. For many, their path can be traced back to a moment when culture became a guide for what they create and how they move forward.

About Alanah Jewell

Alanah Jewell, also known as Alanah Astehtsi̲’ Otsistóhkwaˀ (Morningstar) Jewell, is a contemporary artist from the Bear Clan of the Oneida Nation of the Thames. She grew up off reserve and currently lives in Kitchener, Ontario.

Alanah works across multiple mediums including illustration, painting, and mural work. Her creative practice is deeply inspired by her relationship to the land and by the teachings that guide Indigenous cultural expression.

Her work blends contemporary illustration with cultural storytelling, often reflecting the connections between people, land, and tradition.

About the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards

The Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards celebrate excellence and achievement in Indigenous entrepreneurship. The 2026 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards are co-presented by Mastercard and RBC, and in partnership with Sklar Wilton and Altis Recruitment.

Indigenous entrepreneurs and Indigenous-owned businesses across Canada can apply or nominate others who demonstrate perseverance, growth, leadership, and strong examples of Indigenous business success.

Nominations and applications for the 2026 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards open April 7, 2026.

For more information, visit powwowpitch.org/awards.

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CIRA, the nonprofit organization behind Canada’s trusted internet infrastructure, continues its involvement with Pow Wow Pitch. As Canada’s official .CA registry, CIRA provides Pow Wow Pitch participants with access to complimentary .CA domains for their businesses, supported by their partner, Web Hosting Canada. This partnership supports Indigenous entrepreneurs in establishing and strengthening their online presence.

In 2026, CIRA and Pow Wow Pitch will continue collaborating on spotlight stories featuring Indigenous entrepreneurs who have participated in Pow Wow Pitch programming and launched or expanded their businesses using a .CA domain. These stories highlight real examples of digital growth and visibility across Turtle Island.

CIRA employees will also remain engaged as mentors and judges for Pow Wow Pitch entrepreneurs, contributing their expertise in digital strategy and brand development.

Spencer Callaghan, Director of Brand and Communications at CIRA, shared, “Supporting Indigenous businesses and communities is essential to building a strong and diversified economic future in Canada. As a longtime partner of Pow Wow Pitch, CIRA has seen firsthand the creativity, innovation and leadership Indigenous entrepreneurs bring to Canada’s business landscape. We’re proud to continue this partnership by providing trusted Canadian digital resources like .CA domains that help entrepreneurs build their online presence while keeping their digital identity rooted in Canada.”

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, added, “CIRA’s continued partnership helps strengthen the digital pathways that Indigenous entrepreneurs across our community rely on to grow and thrive. When Indigenous entrepreneurs have access to trusted online platforms, it supports not only individual businesses, but a thriving Indigenous business landscape built on collaboration, connection, and shared opportunity.”

Through this continued collaboration, Pow Wow Pitch and CIRA are working to ensure Indigenous entrepreneurs have access to the digital infrastructure and visibility needed to build sustainable online businesses. Together, the partnership reflects a shared commitment to strengthening Indigenous entrepreneurship in Canada’s digital economy.

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 CIRA

CIRA is the national not-for-profit best known for managing the .CA domain on behalf of all Canadians. As a leader in Canada’s internet ecosystem, CIRA offers a wide range of products, programs and services designed to make the internet a secure and accessible space for all. CIRA represents Canada on both national and international stages to support its goal of building a trusted internet for Canadians by helping shape the future of the internet.

For more information, visit cira.ca.

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Since its founding in 1989, Altis Recruitment has grown into one of Canada’s largest independent staffing firms, supporting more than 2,900 clients nationwide and placing over 8,000 candidates each year across a wide range of industries and sectors. This partnership aligns with Pow Wow Pitch’s strategic focus on building strong talent, leadership, and organizational culture as a foundation for long term sustainability.

As part of the partnership, Altis provides HR advisory support to the Pow Wow Pitch team and shares industry knowledge through mentorship and coaching opportunities connected to Indigenous entrepreneurs participating in Pow Wow Pitch programming. These contributions reflect a shared commitment to knowledge exchange, relationship building, and community centered approaches to entrepreneurship.

In 2026, Altis will once again support the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, honouring Indigenous business leadership, community contributions, and excellence across Canada.

“As an entrepreneur and business owner, I understand the realities of building and sustaining a business, and I am grateful to be part of a partnership that centres Indigenous entrepreneurs and their visions,” said Kathryn Tremblay, Co-Founder and Owner of Altis Recruitment. “Continuing our partnership with Pow Wow Pitch reflects our respect for Indigenous-led entrepreneurship and community driven business. Our team looks forward to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs in meaningful ways, through mentorship, collaboration, and community.”

“We are pleased to continue working alongside Altis as part of our growing partner community,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “Their engagement strengthens our organizational capacity and supports the relationships, knowledge sharing, and networks that Indigenous entrepreneurs identify as critical to their success.”

Together, Pow Wow Pitch and Altis are contributing to a strong, connected ecosystem for Indigenous entrepreneurship. Rooted in community, collaboration, and shared learning, this partnership supports pathways for growth, visibility, and long-term success.

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 Altis Recruitment & Technology Inc.

Founded in 1989, Altis Recruitment & Technology Inc. (“Altis”—formerly excelHR) is one of Canada’s largest independent staffing firms and remains 100% Canadian-owned and operated, with offices in Ottawa, Toronto and Vancouver. Through its two sister brands, Altis Recruitment and Altis Technology (for all IT staffing), Altis supports more than 2,900 client organizations across industries and sectors nationwide, helping them thrive by connecting them with highly skilled, qualified candidates. Every year, our team of specialized recruiters places more than 8,000 qualified candidates in meaningful roles from coast to coast. Altis is recognized as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies (Platinum Club Member) by Deloitte and has received Women Business Enterprise certification from WBE Canada.

www.altis.com

Media inquiries

Please contact media@altis.com.

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