Pow Wow Pitch is proud to announce a $300,000 grant from the McConnell Foundation in support of Building Bridges through Indigenous Entrepreneurship, a three-year initiative focused on expanding reach, mentorship, and business development support for emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs across Canada.
Through this grant, Pow Wow Pitch will strengthen and scale its programming, reaching more urban, rural, remote, and Northern communities through both virtual and in-person opportunities. The funding will help increase access to mentorship, business skills development, pitch training, and networks that support Indigenous entrepreneurs in launching and growing their ventures.
The grant aligns with the McConnell Foundation’s commitment to advancing reconciliation through Indigenous-led solutions and supporting pathways to Indigenous economic prosperity. The initiative also contributes to the National Indigenous Economic Strategy’s Calls to Economic Prosperity by helping entrepreneurs strengthen financial and business literacy, access mentorship opportunities, and build the connections needed to participate fully in Canada’s economy.
“Indigenous entrepreneurs are creators and innovators who strengthen communities and shape the future of Canada’s economy,” shared Jane Rabinowicz, President and CEO of McConnell Foundation. “We are proud to support Indigenous-led work to expand access to mentorship, business development opportunities, and the relationships that help entrepreneurs thrive.”
“We are grateful to the McConnell Foundation for their support of Indigenous entrepreneurship and their belief in Indigenous-led solutions,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “This funding will allow us to expand our reach, deepen our support for entrepreneurs, and create more opportunities for Indigenous business owners to access mentorship, develop their skills, and build meaningful connections that help bring their visions to life.”
Over the next three years, Pow Wow Pitch will continue to grow its network of mentors, increase opportunities for entrepreneurs to participate in pitch competitions and educational programming, and strengthen pathways for Indigenous entrepreneurs to access the resources and relationships needed to succeed.
Together, Pow Wow Pitch and the McConnell Foundation are helping create more opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs to pursue their business goals, strengthen their communities, and contribute to a more inclusive and prosperous future.
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 the McConnell Foundation
Founded in 1937, the McConnell Foundation is a private Canadian foundation that contributes to diverse and innovative approaches to address community resilience, reconciliation and climate change. We do so through funding and investment partnerships, strengthening capabilities, convening, and in collaborating with the public, private and non-profit sectors.
For more information, visit mcconnellfoundation.ca.