Pow Wow Pitch, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs, is proud to announce the renewal of its partnership with Mastercard in Canada for the fifth year in a row, as a co-presenting partner through 2026. This continued collaboration will maintain efforts to inspire and equip Indigenous entrepreneurs with the tools, resources, and opportunities needed to thrive in a digital economy.
“Advancing Indigenous entrepreneurship and economic development aligns with our commitment to fostering an inclusive digital economy across Canada, and we are proud to continue our partnership with Pow Wow Pitch” said Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs, Policy and Stakeholder Engagement. “By supporting Indigenous-led businesses, we are helping drive innovation, create opportunity, and build a more resilient Canadian economy for everyone.”
Mastercard first joined Pow Wow Pitch as a co-presenting partner in 2022. Since then, Mastercard’s involvement has been instrumental in supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs to navigate the challenges of launching, growing and scaling their businesses.
Through this partnership, Mastercard actively contributes to Pow Wow Pitch in multiple ways. Team members across software, engineering, data science, marketing, management consulting, and government affairs serve as virtual mentors and judges, sharing their expertise with Indigenous entrepreneurs and supporting skill building through Indigenous Entrepreneur Bootcamps.
“We are grateful for Mastercard’s continued partnership with Pow Wow Pitch as we enter our fifth year,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “Together, we’ve grown and strengthened our ability to support Indigenous entrepreneurs and their communities. I am excited to see how our collaboration will continue to deepen as we work together to foster opportunity, build skills, and create lasting economic opportunities within Indigenous communities. With shared vision, aligned values, and a commitment to collective growth, this partnership shows how collaboration and shared leadership can benefit communities for generations to come.”
Mastercard’s commitment to Pow Wow Pitch extends well beyond mentorship and funding. Through programs like Mastercard Changeworks™, the company provides access to networks, capacity-building resources, and digital tools, helping Indigenous entrepreneurs thrive. In addition, Mastercard will present two awards at the 2026 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, recognizing and celebrating the achievements of Indigenous business leaders.
Mastercard’s partnership with Pow Wow Pitch empowers Indigenous entrepreneurs and strengthens their communities. By creating opportunities, supporting their entrepreneurial journeys, and uplifting Indigenous peoples, this partnership helps foster self-determined, lasting economic prosperity across Indigenous communities.
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 media inquiries, please contact:
Helena Wade, Manager, Communications
Mastercard
helena.wade@mastercard.com