PHOTO: 2025 Kamloopa Pow Wow Pitch in Kamloops, BC

Pow Wow Pitch and RBC deepen relationship with three-year collaboration supporting Indigenous-led businesses

February 26, 2026

Pow Wow Pitch, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs, is proud to announce a new three-year collaboration with RBC as a Co-Presenter across all Pow Wow Pitch programs from 2026 to 2028.

This multi-year collaboration represents a significant commitment to the long-term growth and visibility of Indigenous-led businesses. Building on a history of working together, the collaboration supports initiatives that ensure Indigenous entrepreneurs have consistent access to mentorship, platforms, and opportunities for business development across Turtle Island.

In alignment with the Economy pathway of its Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), the collaboration reflects RBC’s commitment to promoting the next generation of entrepreneurs. 

“RBC is honoured to work alongside Pow Wow Pitch to drive opportunities for the Indigenous entrepreneurs who contribute to our growing economy,” said Chinyere Eni, Head of RBC Origins. “This three-year commitment is an effort to foster long-term change by enabling the economic reconciliation and prosperity of Indigenous communities.”

Through the collaboration, RBC will continue to contribute judges, mentors, and subject matter experts across Pow Wow Pitch programming, sharing knowledge and experience with entrepreneurs at various stages of their business journeys. This includes offering expertise through specialized webinars and the Pow Wow Pitch Finalist Bootcamp, where Indigenous entrepreneurs can access practical insights and learning opportunities at key moments in their business growth. In addition, RBC will continue its support of the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, celebrating excellence, leadership, and achievement among Indigenous business owners.

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, emphasized the significance of the multi-year commitment, stating, “This collaboration is a celebration of a relationship that has been built over time, rooted in shared values and a genuine commitment to Indigenous entrepreneurs. RBC has been with Pow Wow Pitch from very early days, and that continuity allows us to grow together, deepening our programming, expanding opportunities, and creating spaces where Indigenous entrepreneurs are supported, spotlighted and recognized for the work they do.”

What began as a single annual Pow Wow Pitch event has grown into a multi-program platform, supporting hundreds of Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island annually. With RBC’s continued commitment, Pow Wow Pitch will keep expanding its reach, strengthening Indigenous-led businesses, and empowering entrepreneurs who are building futures for their families, communities, and economies grounded in Indigenous leadership. 

For more information, visit powwowpitch.org/rbc.

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 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.