Kiera Brown, a 2026 Tech 4 Youth Grant recipient, 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Semi-Finalist, and Owner of K’s Handmade Beaded Bracelets, is turning her passion for creating into a growing youth-led business. A Métis youth and citizen of Métis Nation British Columbia, Kiera creates handmade beaded bracelets for both children and adults, bringing her creativity and love of beading to each piece she makes.

At the heart of K’s Handmade Beaded Bracelets is Kiera’s genuine enjoyment of her craft. What began with a love of making bracelets has become an opportunity to explore entrepreneurship while sharing her creations with others. Through her business, Kiera is developing her skills as both a young artist and entrepreneur while continuing to experiment with new creative ideas.

Looking ahead, Kiera hopes to expand her business by reaching new customers through social media and marketing, developing her website, and growing beyond bracelets to offer more handmade beaded items and accessories.

Thanks to the Tech 4 Youth Grant and support from Best Buy Canada, new technology will help Kiera strengthen the creative and business sides of K’s Handmade Beaded Bracelets. The technology will support marketing, website development, order management, printing, and design, making it easier for her to manage her growing business and bring new ideas to life.

As K’s Handmade Beaded Bracelets continues to grow, Kiera is showing how a passion for creating can become an opportunity to learn, experiment, and build something of your own. With plans to expand her designs and reach more customers, she is continuing to develop her creativity while building the next stage of her business.

Explore Kiera’s handmade creations through K’s Handmade Beaded Bracelets. Learn more about the Tech 4 Youth Program here.

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Harley Maytwayashing, a 2026 Tech 4 Youth Grant recipient, 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Semi-Finalist, and Founder and CEO of Anish Luxe, is building an Indigenous-owned streetwear brand that brings together fashion, culture, and community. A member of Long Plain First Nation, Harley created Anish Luxe with a vision of offering premium yet accessible apparel while collaborating with Indigenous artists, sharing Indigenous stories, and creating opportunities to give back to community.

Harley’s journey began with a desire to create something that reflected who he is, where he comes from, and what he believes Indigenous communities can achieve. Growing up in Long Plain First Nation, he saw the importance of culture, community, opportunity, and representation. That experience inspired the idea for Anish Luxe, a brand Harley envisions as more than clothing. His goal is to create a platform that celebrates Indigenous identity, creates opportunities for Indigenous artists, builds pride among Indigenous youth, and eventually reinvests a portion of sales back into Indigenous communities.

One of Harley’s proudest accomplishments has been taking his idea seriously and beginning to turn it into something real. He has developed product samples and prototypes, completed a Business Certificate with a 3.5 GPA, and continued his university studies in Indigenous Studies while building the foundation for Anish Luxe. “What makes me most proud is that Anish Luxe represents a much bigger vision for me,” Harley shares. “I want to build a successful business while using my platform to contribute to my community and inspire the next generation to believe that they can become entrepreneurs, leaders, artists, and changemakers.”

Looking ahead, Harley is preparing to launch Anish Luxe’s first apparel collection, establish an e-commerce website, grow the brand’s social media presence, and begin collaborating with Indigenous artists. Thanks to the Tech 4 Youth Grant and support from Best Buy Canada, he received technology to help move Anish Luxe from development toward launch. A laptop and tablet will support graphic design, website management, marketing, and business administration, while a camera, lighting equipment, and tripod will help Harley produce professional product photography and digital content. A label printer will also support shipping and order fulfillment as the business begins reaching customers. Together, these tools will help Harley build more of the creative and operational foundation of Anish Luxe himself.

For other Indigenous youth dreaming of starting something of their own, Harley encourages them to begin even if they do not have everything figured out. “Start with your idea, learn as much as possible, ask questions, and be willing to change your approach when you receive good advice,” Harley says. He also encourages young entrepreneurs to recognize the strength of their own backgrounds, experiences, and communities while learning the practical skills required to build a sustainable business.

Harley Maytwayashing’s story reflects a vision for entrepreneurship that extends beyond building a brand. As Anish Luxe continues to grow, Harley hopes to use fashion and storytelling to celebrate Indigenous identity, create opportunities for Indigenous artists, support community initiatives, and encourage other Indigenous youth to see what is possible through entrepreneurship.

Follow Anish Luxe on Instagram. Learn more about the Tech 4 Youth Program here.

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Brandon Hart, a 2026 Tech 4 Youth Grant recipient, 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Semi-Finalist, and Founder of Nuniyeh, is bringing his creativity and entrepreneurial spirit to graphic design and apparel. A member of York Factory First Nation, Brandon creates clothing featuring his own graphic designs alongside work from other Indigenous artists, using fashion as a way to showcase Indigenous creativity and create opportunities through entrepreneurship.

For Brandon, entrepreneurship has been part of his life from an early age. Growing up around business and always finding ways to hustle helped shape his entrepreneurial mindset and eventually led him to create something of his own. Through Nuniyeh, Brandon has turned that drive toward graphic design and clothing, building a business around original artwork and Indigenous-created designs.

One of Brandon’s motivations for building his business is straightforward: he wants to earn money while being able to help people. That goal continues to shape his approach to entrepreneurship as he works to develop Nuniyeh and create new opportunities through his work.

Looking ahead, Brandon is focused on strengthening the creative and operational sides of Nuniyeh. Thanks to the Tech 4 Youth Grant and support from Best Buy Canada, new technology will help him create designs, produce professional product photography, manage print-ready files, and improve his shipping and inventory processes. With tools including a laptop, monitor, camera and lighting equipment, label printer, and scanner, Brandon will have more of the technology needed to take his designs from an initial idea through to the finished product and customer experience.

For other Indigenous youth interested in entrepreneurship, Brandon’s journey shows the value of starting with what you know and building from there. Having grown up around business and entrepreneurship, he has carried that experience into Nuniyeh, combining his interest in graphic design and apparel with a desire to create opportunities and support others through his work.

Brandon Hart’s story reflects the creativity and entrepreneurial drive Indigenous youth are bringing to business. As Nuniyeh continues to develop, Brandon is creating a space for his own designs and the work of other Indigenous artists while building a business that can grow alongside his creative vision.

Learn more about the Tech 4 Youth Program here.

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Alliah Oldpan, a 2026 Tech 4 Youth Grant recipient, 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Finalist, and Founder of Sky Dancer Movement, is creating culturally grounded opportunities for Indigenous girls and young women through powwow dance, mentorship, and movement. From Ermineskin Cree Nation and Gwich’in Tribal Council, Alliah created Skydancermovement to promote confidence, wellness, and cultural connection while creating accessible opportunities for youth to learn and participate in powwow dance.

Alliah’s journey into entrepreneurship began through a program with Tribal Chiefs Employment and Training Services, where mentors encouraged her to believe in her ideas and take them seriously. Their support gave her the confidence to take the first steps toward building something of her own. What began as an idea has grown into Skydancermovement, where Alliah can share her knowledge, culture, and love of powwow dance with the next generation.

One of Alliah’s proudest accomplishments has simply been taking the step to turn her idea into something real. “I’m proud of the courage it took to start, learn, put myself out there, and continue growing even when I didn’t have everything figured out,” Alliah reflects. Seeing something that began as a dream become a program she can share with her community has continued to motivate her as an entrepreneur.

Looking ahead, Alliah hopes to expand Skydancermovement by bringing workshops to more communities across Alberta and introducing culturally grounded powwow dance teachings in her Gwich’in community in the Northwest Territories. Thanks to the Tech 4 Youth Grant and support from Best Buy Canada, she received technology to help make that growth possible, including a laptop, printer and scanner, and speaker. These tools will help Alliah create lesson plans and teaching materials, manage her business, communicate with schools and organizations, support music during workshops, and develop resources for participants. Most importantly, the technology will allow her to spend more time focused on teaching powwow dance, sharing culture, and creating meaningful opportunities for Indigenous youth.

For other Indigenous youth dreaming of starting something of their own, Alliah encourages them to believe in their ideas and not be afraid to start small. “You don’t need to have everything figured out right away. Take advantage of mentorship, programs, and the people around you who believe in your vision,” Alliah shares. “Most importantly, take that first step. Sometimes the biggest part of becoming an entrepreneur is simply believing that your idea is worth pursuing and giving yourself the chance to make it real.”

Alliah Oldpan’s story shows what can grow from taking an idea seriously and having the courage to begin. AsSkydancermovement continues to grow, Alliah is creating more opportunities for Indigenous girls and young women to connect with culture, build confidence, and experience powwow dance through community-based programming.

Follow Alliah’s journey on Instagram at @Alliahskyy. Learn more about the Tech 4 Youth Program here.

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Cody McDonald, a 2026 Tech 4 Youth Grant recipient, 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Semi-Finalist, and Owner of Mayzoon Parisien, is creating greater access to Métis regalia through a combination of traditional design and modern production methods. A citizen of the Manitoba Métis Federation, Cody creates custom Métis regalia with a focus on traditional vests and ribbon skirts. Through his work, he aims to make regalia more accessible while remaining rooted in Métis culture, traditional design and Michif language revitalization.

Cody’s journey began after seeing a lack of Métis regalia options available, something that became especially evident while searching for something to wear for his own graduation. Motivated to create his own, Cody began learning how to make Métis regalia and continued developing his skills from there. What started as a personal need has grown into Mayzoon Parisien, a business using tools such as machine embroidery and Direct-to-Film transfers to create Métis regalia while helping lower costs and improve accessibility.

One of Cody’s proudest accomplishments has been the connections he has made with people and artisans in his community through markets and community events. These experiences have also given him opportunities to share and educate others about Métis culture. “Seeing people enjoy and connect with my work has always been something that keeps me motivated to continue creating,” Cody reflects.

Looking ahead, Cody is focused on continuing to grow Mayzoon Parisien and reaching more people through his website and social media. Thanks to the Tech 4 Youth Grant and support from Best Buy Canada, he received a new iPad and iPhone to support both the creative and business sides of his work. The technology will allow Cody to design and store embroidery files, use more advanced design software, take higher-quality product photos, manage his website and stay connected with customers from anywhere. These tools will help streamline his work and give him more time to focus on creating, connecting with customers and growing his business.

For other Indigenous youth dreaming of starting something of their own, Cody encourages them to connect with their communities and other Indigenous entrepreneurs and seek out the resources available to them. “There are many people and organizations that want to support Indigenous entrepreneurs, whether it’s through mentorship, funding, training, or simply sharing their experiences,” Cody shares. “Some of the most meaningful opportunities and connections I’ve made through my business have come from engaging with my community and these supports.”

Cody McDonald’s story demonstrates how culture, creativity and technology can come together to create new opportunities for Indigenous youth entrepreneurship. As Mayzoon Parisien continues to grow, Cody is creating greater access to Métis regalia while helping celebrate and carry Métis culture forward.

Explore Cody’s work with Mayzoon Parisien and follow his journey on Instagram. Learn more about the Tech 4 Youth Program here.

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In 2022, Pow Wow Pitch and Best Buy Canada launched the Tech 4 Youth program to equip young Indigenous entrepreneurs with essential technology to support their entrepreneurial journeys. As the primary partner of the Pow Wow Pitch Youth category, Best Buy Canada also supports aspiring young business leaders through mentorship, helping them strengthen their one-minute pitches for the opportunity to win cash prizes. 

The Tech 4 Youth program welcomed applications from Pow Wow Pitch Alumni aged 21 and under from across Canada. This year’s recipients are building businesses across fashion, beadwork, photography and videography, cultural programming, graphic design, and more. Through the program, each recipient received technology to support their individual business needs, helping them strengthen operations, create and market their work, reach new customers, and continue developing their entrepreneurial skills.

Meet the 2026 Tech-4-Youth Recipients

Cody McDonald, Founder and Owner of Mayzoon Parisien and a citizen of the Manitoba Métis Federation, creates custom Métis regalia with a focus on traditional vests and ribbon skirts. Cody received an iPad and iPhone to support digital illustration and embroidery design, product photography, website management, customer communications, and the continued growth of his business.

Alliah Oldpan, Founder of Skydancermovement from Ermineskin Cree Nation and Gwich’in Tribal Council, provides culturally grounded powwow dance programming for Indigenous girls and young women through mentorship, movement, and teachings. Alliah received a laptop, printer and scanner, and speaker to support lesson planning, workshop delivery, business administration, community outreach, and the expansion of her programming.

Brandon Hart, Founder of Nuniyeh from York Factory First Nation, creates graphic-design apparel featuring his own work and designs from other Indigenous artists. Brandon received technology to strengthen the creative and operational sides of his business, supporting graphic design, product photography, marketing, shipping, inventory management, and the continued development of his brand.

Harley Maytwayashing, Founder and CEO of Anish Luxe from Long Plain First Nation, is developing an Indigenous-owned streetwear brand bringing together fashion, culture, storytelling, and community. Harley received technology to support graphic design, e-commerce, business administration, product photography, digital content creation, and order fulfillment as he prepares to launch Anish Luxe’s first apparel collection.

Kiera Brown, Owner of K’s Handmade Beaded Bracelets and a citizen of the Métis Nation British Columbia, creates handmade beaded bracelets for children and adults. Kiera received technology to support marketing, website development, design, order management, and the expansion of her business into new beaded items and accessories.

Kashtin Delorme, Owner of KASHT2N Productions from Cowessess First Nation, operates an Indigenous-owned photography and videography business in Saskatchewan focused on visual storytelling, events, promotional content, and community stories. Kashtin received a 70–200mm lens to expand his photography and videography capabilities and support an upcoming documentary exploring the history of Cowessess First Nation and the return of buffalo to the Nation’s lands.

Isabella “Bella” McBain-Nepton, Owner of Bella McBain Creations, creates handmade brick-stitch earrings inspired by Mi’kmaq culture and community while sharing beading skills with Indigenous youth. Bella is receiving camera and lighting equipment to strengthen her product photography, digital storytelling, social media presence, and ability to share her work with audiences across Canada.

“We are deeply grateful to Best Buy Canada for continuing to support and uplift the ideas and ambitions of young Indigenous entrepreneurs through Tech 4 Youth,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “This year’s recipients are bringing their creativity, culture, and entrepreneurial vision into so many different spaces, from fashion and beadwork to visual storytelling and cultural programming. Congratulations to Cody, Alliah, Brandon, Harley, Kiera, Kashtin, and Bella! We are excited to see how you use this technology to continue building your businesses, developing your skills, and bringing your ideas to life.”

“At Best Buy Canada, we believe in the power of technology to open doors and create opportunities,” said Karen Arsenault, Head of Social Impact and Sustainability at Best Buy Canada. “Through the Tech 4 Youth program, we are honoured to support the next generation of Indigenous entrepreneurs as they pursue their dreams and build businesses that will create a positive difference in their communities. We are inspired by their creativity and vision for the future, and we’re proud to play a part in their entrepreneurial journey.”

Through Tech 4 Youth, Pow Wow Pitch and Best Buy Canada continue to create opportunities for young Indigenous entrepreneurs to access technology that meets their business needs and supports the next stage of their entrepreneurial journeys.

Learn more about the Tech 4 Youth program at powwowpitch.org/best-buy.

To watch the 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Youth Semi-Finals, click here.

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On October 21, 2026, Pow Wow Pitch, an Indigenous-led non-profit organization that hosts Turtle Island’s premier Indigenous Business Pitch Competition for Indigenous entrepreneurs, co-presented in partnership with RBC and Mastercard, announced Danielle Boyer, Anishinaabe Founder and CEO of The STEAM Connection, as the 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Winner and recipient of the Grand Prize of $25,000.

The Grand Finale was hosted by Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch, and brought together Indigenous entrepreneurs from Nations and communities across Turtle Island to pitch their businesses and share their entrepreneurial journeys.

Following the qualifying Semi-Final round, the top 17 Indigenous entrepreneurs from across Turtle Island went head-to-head pitching their businesses to a panel of judges who evaluated and selected the 2026 Grand Finale winners.

The 2026 Grand Finale Judges included Herb ZoBell, Vice President, Commercial Financial Services at RBC; Mansur Mirani, Vice President, Data Portfolio & Strategic Programs at Mastercard; Kendal Garlow, Co-Founder and CEO of SproutSync Ltd. and the 2025 Pow Wow Pitch First Place Winner; and Dr. Shyra Barberstock, Co-Founder and CEO of Kebaonish Inc. and the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch First Place Winner.

MEET THE WINNERS

The First Place Prize of $25,000 presented by RBC was Danielle Boyer, Founder and CEO of The STEAM Connection, an Anishinaabe entrepreneur and enrolled citizen of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians and business based in Troy, Michigan. The STEAM Connection designs, manufactures and distributes robotics and technology resources with a focus on making technology education more accessible for Indigenous youth. Danielle’s work includes SkoBots, wearable robots that combine technology with Indigenous knowledge and language revitalization. Watch Danielle’s pitch. 

“Being a Pow Wow Pitch winner means being able to bring more attention to the importance of language revitalization and making it more accessible to our youth. Our voices deserve to be heard, and platforming ethical technology rooted in data sovereignty means a lot,” shared Danielle Boyer, Founder and CEO of The STEAM Connection.

Danielle plans to use the $25,000 Grand Prize to expand The STEAM Connection’s manufacturing capacity, allowing the organization to produce more robotics resources and get them into the hands of more Indigenous youth and communities. 

Danielle shares this advice for other Indigenous entrepreneurs: “Start with your community and what matters to you. You don’t need a fancy degree, decades of experience, or a perfect plan to begin. Build something that reflects your values, stays true to your teachings and community, and creates meaningful change for your people.”

Danielle expresses her gratitude to Pow Wow Pitch, her grandmother Bernadine Edwards, the language keepers who share their knowledge and voices, and the Indigenous youth who help design and build SkoBots. “This work is only possible because of the communities who trust us to support their language revitalization journeys.”

The Second Place Prize of $10,000, presented by Mastercard, was awarded to Rain Ward, Founder of 2Bear: Indigenous Wellness, from Metepenagiag Mi’qmak Nation and business based in Metepenagiag Mi’qmak Nation, New Brunswick. 2Bear is a Mi’kmaq-owned wellness collective offering holistic wellness, facilitation, workshops, ceremony, traditional food and medicine education, cultural activities and community-based programming. In his pitch, Rain shared that he would create a cultural ceremony space to enhance the mental health landscape in his community and hire a staff member to support operations. Watch Rain’s pitch.

“It means the world that a little guy from the Rez can make a big difference for myself, my Nation, and the country,” shared Rain Ward, Founder of 2Bear: Indigenous Wellness. “The most meaningful part has been the validation that other people can feel the way I feel about 2Bear. All this hard work is building a future for myself and my family, and showing that Indigenous people can make a way for ourselves while staying true to our traditional ways of knowing and being.”

Rain shares this advice for other Indigenous entrepreneurs: “Find the things that make you different and that you love, and be authentic to yourself. Your first product you’re selling is yourself. Show the world what makes you so special and how you can share.”

The Third Place Prize of $5,000, presented by Pow Wow Pitch Alumni Dr. Shyra Barberstock, went to Cole Sanderson, Founder of North Wrestle, from Sturgeon Lake First Nation and business based in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. North Wrestle is a Canadian wrestling media platform dedicated to growing the sport, celebrating athletes and creating greater visibility and opportunities for Canada’s wrestling community. Cole plans to use the prize money to grow North Wrestle into a sustainable national platform that tells the stories of Canadian wrestlers and creates opportunities for athletes, coaches, and wrestling communities. The funding will support expanded event coverage, media production, and a national ranking system to help grow the sport and inspire the next generation of Canadian wrestlers. Watch Cole’s pitch.

“I’m very grateful to be a Pow Wow Pitch winner. It took my community, family, and a lot of people believing in me to get here. This win means I get to keep building North Wrestle and share my story and the journey toward increasing visibility for the sport that gave me everything. This is just the beginning. You’re going to hear and see a lot more from me,” shared Cole Sanderson, Founder of North Wrestle.

Cole shares this advice for other Indigenous entrepreneurs: “Entrepreneurship is hard, and I won’t pretend otherwise. The struggles and challenges will keep coming. Your job is to keep moving. Start, even before you feel ready, and keep going when it gets heavy. The fear doesn’t go away; you just learn to move with it.”

The Alumni Choice Prize of $5,000 was presented on behalf of Pow Wow Pitch Alumni by Kendal Garlow, went to Dana Swart, Owner of Trailhead Bread, from the Métis Nation of Alberta and business based in Crowsnest Pass, Alberta. Trailhead Bread is an artisan bakery led by Red Seal Baker Dana Swart, specializing in handcrafted sourdough and baked goods while incorporating local ingredients and regional flavours wherever possible. Dana will use the funds to increase food literacy and purchase equipment to expand retail opportunities beyond wholesale. Watch Dana’s pitch.

“Being selected as a Pow Wow Pitch winner means so much to me. Starting a small business is a lot of work, and having that effort recognized and supported by my community is incredibly meaningful,” shared Dana Swart, Owner of Trailhead Bread. “[These funds] will allow me to invest in the business, grow thoughtfully, and bring my vision to life. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity and for the people who believe in what I’m building.”

“This year’s winners remind us of the incredible diversity, creativity, and vision within Indigenous entrepreneurship,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “From technology and wellness to wrestling and food, each entrepreneur is building something rooted in who they are and where they come from, while creating opportunities for their communities. We are so proud to celebrate Danielle, Rain, Cole, and Dana, and grateful to every finalist who shared their story with us. Miigwetch for bringing your ideas, your culture, and your dreams into this circle. We are honoured to walk alongside you and look forward to seeing where your journeys take you next.”

“Empowering Indigenous entrepreneurship is critical to advancing economic resilience, growth, and reconciliation,” said Brittanee Laverdure, Director, Truth and Reconciliation Office, RBC Origins. “At RBC, we are proud to support Pow Wow Pitch in providing a platform for Indigenous entrepreneurs to generate meaningful impact in their communities across Turtle Island and beyond. Congratulations to this year’s finalists and winners – we’re humbled to witness your growth and celebrate your success.”

“At Mastercard, we’ve been inspired by the innovation, drive, and creativity shown by the Indigenous entrepreneurs who took part in this year’s Pow Wow Pitch,” said Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs, Policy and Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard, Canada. “Our partnership with Pow Wow Pitch reflects our shared commitment to expanding economic opportunity and supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs. We’re proud to support their journeys and to celebrate their accomplishments. Congratulations to all the pitchers, and a special congratulations to Danielle, Rain, Cole, and Dana on winning the 2026 Pow Wow Pitch!”

To watch the Grand Finale, click here.

To schedule an interview with Pow Wow Pitch Founder, Sunshine Tenasco, Executive Director, Naomi Sarazin, or one of our winners, Danielle, Rain, Cole or Dana, please contact hello@powwowpitch.org.

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 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 105,000+ 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.

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 media inquiries, please contact:

Helena Wade, Manager, Communications

Mastercard

helena.wade@mastercard.com

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Now in its fifth year, the partnership between Pow Wow Pitch and Aritzia continues to support Indigenous women and two-spirit entrepreneurs through funding, visibility and mentorship. What began in 2022 with support for Indigenous fashion entrepreneurs has expanded across the Pow Wow Pitch competition, with eligible Indigenous women and two-spirit entrepreneurs advancing to the Grand Finale receiving an Aritzia Grant. 

On September 15, Pow Wow Pitch announced the Finalists advancing to the 2026 Grand Finale. Among this year’s Finalists, sixteen Indigenous women and two-spirit entrepreneurs qualified to receive an Aritzia Grant, representing businesses and organizations across industries including fashion, technology, food and drink, tourism, health and wellness, professional services, sustainability and more.

Meet the 2026 Aritzia Grant Recipients

Aleria McKay, Founder and Director of Miss Indigenous Canada Leadership Development and Ambassador Program, is an Onondaga woman from Six Nations of the Grand River. The program creates leadership development and ambassador opportunities for Indigenous youth, supporting participants in strengthening their leadership skills, connecting with culture and giving back to their communities. Watch Aleria’s Pitch here.

Monique Collins, Founder of Dragonfly Spirit CreeAtions Ltd., is an entrepreneur from Peepeekisis Cree Nation, with her business based in Nisku, Alberta. Dragonfly Spirit CreeAtions offers Indigenous tourism experiences centred on Cree culture, teachings and hospitality. Watch Monique’s Pitch here.

JoLynn Parenteau, Founder and Facilitator of Métis Money Moves, is an Otipemisiwak Métis woman from the Métis Nation of Alberta, with her business based in Medicine Hat, Alberta. Métis Money Moves provides culturally relevant financial education, combining financial literacy with Indigenous values, storytelling and community-based learning. Watch JoLynn’s Pitch here.

Siera Hancharyk, Founder of Three Sisters Indigenous Crafts Market, is an Anishinaabe entrepreneur from Wiikwemkoong First Nation, with her business based in Toronto, Ontario. Three Sisters Indigenous Crafts Market is an Indigenous youth-led grassroots collective creating affordable spaces for Indigenous artists and small businesses to share and sell authentic Indigenous-made products. Watch Siera’s Pitch here.

Neecha Klee, Founder of Aniibiish Herbal, is an entrepreneur from Atikameksheng Anishnawbek, with her business based in Toronto, Ontario. Aniibiish Herbal creates loose-leaf herbal teas inspired by Indigenous plant traditions and designed to support women throughout different phases of their cycles. Watch Neecha’s Pitch here.

Jada Belleau, Founder of Gookom’s Cabinet Mobile Refillery, is an entrepreneur from Garden River First Nation. Her mobile refillery brings refill options directly to customers, encouraging the reuse of containers and providing a lower-waste approach to household and personal care products. Watch Jada’s Pitch here.

Tasha Toulouse, Founder and Owner of Gizaagi’in Home Services, is an entrepreneur from Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation. Gizaagi’in Home Services provides household services to elders, families, kinship families and others who could use an extra helping hand within the community. Watch Tasha’s Pitch here.

Dana Swart, Owner of Trailhead Bread, is a Métis entrepreneur with her business based in Crowsnest Pass, Alberta. A Red Seal Baker and Baking and Pastry Arts graduate, Dana creates handcrafted artisan sourdough and baked goods using local ingredients and flavours wherever possible. Watch Dana’s Pitch here.

Tyler Leslie, Founder of Tyler’s Styling Studio, is an entrepreneur from Yakama Nation, with her business based in Polson, Montana. Through Tyler’s Styling Studio, Tyler combines creativity and fashion to provide styling services that help clients express their personal style. Watch Tyler’s Pitch here.

Alliah Oldpan, Founder of Skydancermovement, is a young entrepreneur from Ermineskin Cree Nation, with her business based in Edmonton, Alberta. Having danced powwow since she was in Tiny Tots, Alliah created Skydancermovement to bring Indigenous youth together through powwow dance, workshops and cultural connection. Watch Alliah’s Pitch here.

Stephanie King, Founder and Owner of Fin & Feather, is an entrepreneur from Timiskaming First Nation, with her business based in East Gwillimbury, Ontario. Drawing on 20 years of experience in the food service industry, Stephanie serves barbecue, dirty sodas and loaded brownie cups at powwows and festivals, with plans to expand Fin & Feather into a year-round business. Watch Stephanie’s Pitch here.

Danielle Boyer, Founder and CEO of The STEAM Connection, is an Anishinaabe robotics inventor and educator from the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, with her business based in Troy, Michigan. The STEAM Connection designs, manufactures and distributes robotics resources with a focus on making technology education more accessible, representative and culturally relevant for youth. Watch Danielle’s Pitch here.

Shilo Cote, Owner and Creator of Quality Quills, is an Algonquin and Odawa artist from Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg who has been creating jewelry for more than 20 years. Quality Quills creates handcrafted jewelry using ethically sourced porcupine quills alongside semi-precious stones, crystals, shells, antler and bone. Watch Shilo’s Pitch here.

Shyanne Yellowbird, Founder of mîmîNîsak, is an entrepreneur from Samson Cree Nation with her business based in Pigeon Lake, Alberta and Marysville, Washington. mîmîNîsak brings Indigenous storytelling to life through a line of dolls inspired by the Cree Little People, bringing Cree stories, teachings and representation into products created for children and families. Watch Shyanne’s Pitch here.

Sherry Condo, Owner of Wild Flower Honey, is a Mi’gmaq beekeeper from Listiguj First Nation. Through Wild Flower Honey, Sherry produces local honey while sharing her knowledge of beekeeping and building a Mi’gmaq-owned business rooted in her community. Sherry earned her place in the Grand Finale after winning the 2026 Gesgapegiag Pow Wow Pitch.

Raine Ward, Founder of 2Bear: Indigenous Wellness, is a two-spirit entrepreneur from Metepenagiag Mi’qmak Nation. 2Bear is a Mi’kmaq-owned wellness collective offering holistic wellness, facilitation, workshops, ceremony, traditional food and medicine education, cultural activities and other community-based programming. Rain earned their place in the Grand Finale after winning the 2026 Sitansisk Pow Wow Pitch.

“I feel grateful and honoured to be selected for this grant. This funding will help me continue easing some of the burdens families face and make compassionate, judgment-free support more accessible,” shared Tasha Toulouse, Founder of Gizaagi’in Home Services. “Your support means more than financial assistance; it means having someone believe in me and the difference I hope to make in the lives of families and communities. I hope my journey encourages other Indigenous women to take that first step, ask for help when they need it, and keep going through the tough moments. You are capable of more than you think.”

“We are incredibly grateful to Aritzia for continuing to support Indigenous women and two-spirit entrepreneurs through Pow Wow Pitch,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “This year’s recipients are building businesses and organizations across so many industries, while bringing their creativity, knowledge and vision to everything they do. Congratulations to all sixteen recipients! We are proud to celebrate you, honour your journeys, and cheer you on as you continue to grow and share your gifts with your communities.”

“Supporting Indigenous communities is a year-round commitment at Aritzia. Through our partnership with Pow Wow Pitch, we are proud to support Indigenous entrepreneurs as they grow their businesses, pursue their ambitions, and create positive impact in their communities,” said Corinne Kepper, Vice President of Corporate Giving at Aritzia. “We are especially proud of the Aritzia employees who volunteer as mentors, helping founders to prepare their presentation for the competition. Together, we are investing in Indigenous entrepreneurship, leadership, and the next generation of indigenous changemakers.”

Through their continued partnership, Pow Wow Pitch and Aritzia are creating opportunities for Indigenous women and two-spirit entrepreneurs to access funding, mentorship and greater visibility as they continue building their businesses and organizations.

All sixteen Aritzia Grant recipients will be pitching in the 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale on October 21, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. ET for their chance to win this year’s Grand Prize of $25,000. 

Register to watch the Grand Finale at powwowpitch.org/register.

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On September 8, 2026, Pow Wow Pitch, an Indigenous-led non-profit organization that hosts Turtle Island’s premier Indigenous Business Pitch Competition for Indigenous entrepreneurs, presented in partnership with RBC and Mastercard, announced Danielle Boyer, Anishinaabe of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, Founder and CEO of The STEAM Connection, a business based in Troy, Michigan, USA, as the 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Technology Semi-Final Winner. Danielle has won $1,000 and is advancing to the Grand Finale for a chance to win $25,000 to grow her business. 

More than 120 Indigenous entrepreneurs from across Turtle Island were selected as Semi-Finalists in this year’s Pow Wow Pitch. Each received training and mentorship to prepare for their semi-final pitch to the Judges, competing for the chance to advance to the Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale. Nine Technology Semi-Finalists had the opportunity to pitch their businesses in one minute for their chance to win an industry prize and a spot in the finals.

Judges included Sydney Baldwin, Senior Commercial Relationship Manager at RBC; Shrutika Gupta, Director, Product Development at Mastercard; and Edgard Cruz, National Indigenous Youth Business Advisory Council member at NACCA.

Danielle Boyer, Founder and CEO of The STEAM Connection, is an Anishinaabe robotics inventor, educator, and advocate who founded the organization in 2019 to make technology education more accessible to young people. The STEAM Connection designs, manufactures, and distributes free robotics and technology resources, with a focus on Indigenous youth. Danielle’s work also includes SkoBots, wearable robots created to support Indigenous language learning, combining robotics and technology with community knowledge and language revitalization. 

In her pitch, Danielle shared that one of her biggest challenges is keeping up with the growing demand for her robotics resources from Tribal communities and schools. If she wins the $25,000 Grand Prize, she plans to expand The STEAM Connection’s manufacturing capacity, allowing her to produce more robots and get them into the hands of more communities and young people who are waiting for them.

The judges commended Danielle for her innovative approach to technology and the work she is doing to make robotics and STEAM education more accessible for Indigenous youth. They were impressed by how The STEAM Connection brings together technology, education, and Indigenous knowledge, and by Danielle’s vision for using technology to support the next generation.

 “Congratulations to Danielle Boyer on advancing to the 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “Through The STEAM Connection, Danielle is making technology and robotics more accessible for Indigenous youth while showing what is possible when technology is created with community in mind. Her work is helping young people revitalize their language while finding new ways to support Indigenous learning and knowledge sharing through technology.”

Alongside selecting a winner, the judges also recognized the Runner Up for the Technology industry category. Joseph Morningstar, Mississauga First Nation Founder and Developer of Empower App was recognized for creating a practical technology solution designed to support communities during emergencies and crisis situations. Judges were moved by the heart behind his work and the ways Empower App is supporting community preparedness, coordinating community members and accommodations, and helping communities be ready when they are needed most. They celebrated Joseph for putting technology into action in service of community care and supporting people on the ground when it matters most.

“We’re committed to playing a role in paving a path forward for Indigenous entrepreneurs, exemplified by our support of Pow Wow Pitch,” said Brittanee Laverdure, Director, Truth and Reconciliation Office, RBC Origins. “Pow Wow Pitch offers a holistic support system to power the next generation of Indigenous innovators across Turtle Island, including this year’s participants and semi-finalists.”

“The creativity, determination, and ambition demonstrated by this year’s Pow Wow Pitch entrepreneurs have been truly inspiring,” said Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs, Policy and Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard, Canada. “We’re proud to work alongside partners like Pow Wow Pitch by mentoring pitchers, representing Mastercard’s commitment to help remove barriers and open pathways to growth and economic opportunity. Congratulations to all the pitchers for sharing their business ideas, entrepreneurial journeys, and stories, and a special congratulations to Danielle Boyer for advancing to the next round.”

To watch Danielle’s winning pitch, click here. To watch the Technology Semi-Final episode, click here.

Danielle will now advance to the Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale to pitch for the Grand Prize of $25,000, which broadcasts online on October 21, 2026. Register to watch the 2026 Grand Finale at powwowpitch.org/register.

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On September 14, 2026, Pow Wow Pitch, an Indigenous-led non-profit organization that hosts Turtle Island’s premier Indigenous Business Pitch Competition for Indigenous entrepreneurs, presented in partnership with RBC and Mastercard, announced Cole Sanderson, Sturgeon Lake First Nation Founder of North Wrestle, a business based in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, as the 2026 Pow Wow Pitch People’s Choice Semi-Final Winner. Cole has won $1,000 and is advancing to the Grand Finale for a chance to win $25,000 to grow his business.

More than 120 Indigenous entrepreneurs from across Turtle Island were selected as Semi-Finalists in this year’s Pow Wow Pitch. Each received training and mentorship to prepare for their Semi-Final pitch to the Judges, competing for the chance to advance to the Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale.

As part of the competition, Pow Wow Pitch invited the public to vote for their favourite entrepreneur to win the People’s Choice Prize as part of a campaign to showcase, celebrate, and rally for the Semi-Finalists. This year, more than 4,000 people from across Turtle Island cast their votes for the entrepreneur that they wanted to see make it to the Grand Finale.

Shilo Cote, Owner and Creator of Quality Quills, received the highest overall number of People’s Choice votes, with 411 votes. Shilo had already secured her place in the Grand Finale as the Fashion Semi-Final Winner, allowing the People’s Choice opportunity to advance another Semi-Finalist to the Grand Finale. 

Cole received 300 votes and was selected as the 2026 People’s Choice Semi-Final Winner, earning the $1,000 prize and a place in the Grand Finale.

“I felt a lot of relief and gratitude,” said Cole Sanderson, Founder of North Wrestle. “I never had a doubt, because I know how strong my community is behind me. I want to thank my friends and family, and the entire Canadian wrestling community for showing up and voting. I want to thank my home, Sturgeon Lake First Nation. I want to thank my mentor, for believing in me, helping me with my pitch, and helping me see this through. And I want to thank everyone who sent kind messages throughout this process, and everyone who believed in me. I wouldn’t be here without all of you.”

Cole Sanderson, Founder of North Wrestle, is a Cree entrepreneur, former Team Canada wrestler and wrestling advocate based in Saskatchewan. Through North Wrestle, Cole is building a Canadian wrestling media platform designed to give athletes greater visibility and bring more attention to the sport through event coverage, photography, video, social media and rankings.

Since launching, North Wrestle has grown into a national platform, covering wrestling tournaments across Canada and reaching millions of viewers while showcasing athletes and their achievements.

Cole shares his vision in his pitch is to build North Wrestle into a sustainable national platform that not only tells the stories of Canadian wrestlers, but also creates new opportunities for athletes, coaches and wrestling communities. By expanding its event coverage, media production and national ranking system, North Wrestle aims to help grow the sport and inspire the next generation of Canadian wrestlers.

“Doing hard things is tough, and it will be scary,” shared Cole. “Fear has always been a big part of my life. I wanted to start earlier, but fear held me back. I learned that fear never really goes away, you just learn to move with it. My advice is to face the fear and start anyway. The hardest part is starting. Once you start, just keep going.”

“Congratulations to Cole Sanderson on being selected by the Pow Wow Pitch community as our 2026 People’s Choice Winner,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “The People’s Choice Vote is a beautiful example of what can happen when communities come together to uplift Indigenous entrepreneurs, celebrate their stories, and create opportunities for them to move forward. Congratulations Cole and mìgwech to everyone across Turtle Island who showed up to support this year’s Semi-Finalists.”

“We’re committed to playing a role in paving a path forward for Indigenous entrepreneurs, exemplified by our support of Pow Wow Pitch,” said Brittanee Laverdure, Director, Truth and Reconciliation Office, RBC Origins. “Pow Wow Pitch offers a holistic support system to power the next generation of Indigenous innovators across Turtle Island, including this year’s participants and semi-finalists.”

“The creativity, determination, and ambition demonstrated by this year’s Pow Wow Pitch entrepreneurs have been truly inspiring,” said Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs, Policy and Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard, Canada. “We’re proud to work alongside partners like Pow Wow Pitch by mentoring pitchers, representing Mastercard’s commitment to help remove barriers and open pathways to growth and economic opportunity. Congratulations to all the pitchers for sharing their business ideas, entrepreneurial journeys, and stories, and a special congratulations to Cole Sanderson for advancing to the next round.”

To watch Cole’s winning pitch, click here. 

Cole will now advance to the Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale to pitch for the Grand Prize of $25,000, which broadcasts online on October 21, 2026 at 6:00 PM ET. Register to watch the 2026 Grand Finale at powwowpitch.org/register.

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