Pow Wow Pitch, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs, is proud to announce its partnership with Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) and Women in Business New Brunswick (WBNB) as the local presenting partners of the first ever Elsipogtog Pow Wow Pitch. Both JEDI and WBND are providing local Indigenous entrepreneurs with access to tools and resources to bring their business ideas to life.
Building on the success of their collaborations to build opportunities and support to Indigenous New Brunswick residents, Pow Wow Pitch, JEDI and WBNB are joining forces once again to spotlight a new First Nations community in New Brunswick. The impact of this partnership continues to celebrate and empower Indigenous entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed all throughout the province.
At this year’s Elsipogtog Powwow held in Elsipogtog First Nation, JEDI is proud to collaborate with Pow Wow Pitch by providing prizes and helping to connect Indigenous entrepreneurs with essential resources, including capital and mentorship. JEDI is a leading Indigenous organization dedicated to fostering Indigenous economic development in New Brunswick. Their team members will serve as judges and mentors at the Elsipogtog Pow Wow Pitch, further demonstrating their commitment to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurship.
“We are proud to be continuing our partnership with Pow Wow Pitch for a third year to uplift and celebrate Indigenous entrepreneurship across New Brunswick,” expressed Stanley Barnaby, CEO of JEDI. “At JEDI, we recognize the vital role Indigenous businesses play in driving economic growth while staying rooted in culture and community. It’s an honour to support and recognize these entrepreneurs as they lead the way forward.”
Echoing this impact, Women in Business New Brunswick will also be joining forces to provide prizes, mentorship, and judges to local entrepreneurs. WBNB is a non-profit organization that empowers women entrepreneurs across the province by fostering confidence, leadership, and economic independence. Through culturally inclusive support and community-building, they help women overcome barriers, grow sustainable businesses, and become catalysts for change in their communities.
“Women in Business New Brunswick is proud to continue supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs through partnerships like this one,” said Nacole Charlie, Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs Development Officer at Women in Business New Brunswick. Initiatives such as Pow Wow Pitch offer meaningful platforms to amplify Indigenous voices, celebrate innovation, and foster culturally grounded economic development.”
Echoing this sentiment, Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, shared, “We absolutely love when partners like the Joint Economic Development Initiative and Women in Business New Brunswick come together to amplify our collective impact. By working in partnership, we’re creating space for Indigenous entrepreneurs to be seen, supported, and celebrated. We’re excited to deepen these relationships and continue strengthening the entrepreneurial spirit across New Brunswick.”
By working alongside Pow Wow Pitch, JEDI and WBNB are contributing to a growing movement that empowers and supports Indigenous 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 Joint Economic Development Initiative
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
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.