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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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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