Pow Wow Pitch Deepens Partnership with RBC to Empower Indigenous Entrepreneurs

March 27, 2024

Pow Wow Pitch,  the leading non-profit organization dedicated to supporting emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, proudly announces the extension of its partnership with RBC for the fifth consecutive year. RBC, a global financial institution committed to driving positive social and economic change, will continue its support as a Co-Presenting Partner for the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Program, furthering its dedication to empowering Indigenous communities globally.

As part of this partnership, RBC will provide judges and mentors for Pow Wow Pitch events, offering invaluable insights and guidance to participants. Additionally, RBC will contribute experts for specialized training of Indigenous entrepreneurs at the Pow Wow Pitch Bootcamp and through Indigenous-led knowledge sharing on social media.

Moreover, RBC will recognize and celebrate Indigenous entrepreneurship through the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, acknowledging outstanding achievements and contributions to Indigenous communities.

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, expressed her excitement, stating, “The partnership between Pow Wow Pitch and RBC has been instrumental in our mission to empower Indigenous entrepreneurs and drive economic prosperity within Indigenous communities. Through our collaboration, we have been able to provide invaluable support and resources to aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs.”

“Indigenous entrepreneurs play a pivotal role in driving Canada’s long-term economic stability and progress” says Tracy Antoine, Senior Director of Indigenous Programs and Policies at RBC. “As part of our long-standing partnership with Pow Wow Pitch, we will continue to leverage our resources, expertise and global network to empower Indigenous entrepreneurs and create meaningful opportunities for their advancement and success.” 

As part of the partnership, Tracy is joining the Pow Wow Pitch Advisory Council to support the ongoing strategic alignment with Pow Wow Pitch as a platform to grow the Indigenous economy. 

This renewed partnership signifies a collective commitment to providing tangible support and resources to Indigenous entrepreneurs and driving positive change and fostering economic empowerment within Indigenous communities. RBC’s collaboration with Pow Wow Pitch will significantly bolster efforts to empower Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island and beyond. 

For more information, visit powwowpitch.org/rbc.

About Pow Wow Pitch

Pow Wow Pitch is a pioneering entrepreneurship program dedicated to supporting emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs in North America. Through a range of comprehensive programs and resources, Pow Wow Pitch aims to foster sustainable growth, empowerment, and economic prosperity within Indigenous communities using an entrepreneurial mindset. 

About RBC Indigenous Financial Services Group

For more than 100 years, RBC has been building relationships with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities across Canada. We are committed to serving Indigenous governments, communities, organizations, businesses and individuals by creating opportunities for sustainable economic development through access to banking and capital solutions. RBC also provides donations and grants that support Indigenous interests.

More information at rbcroyalbank.com/indigenous.