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Since its inception, Pow Wow Pitch has been at the forefront of championing Indigenous entrepreneurship, recognizing it as a powerful vehicle for community empowerment and economic self-determination. Central to its mission is the belief that Indigenous businesses not only drive economic prosperity but also serve as vehicles for cultural preservation and community development. This ethos aligns with Shopify's dedication to empowering entrepreneurs worldwide, making the partnership a natural fit.

As part of the partnership, Indigenous entrepreneurs will gain access to a wide range of resources and support mechanisms, including digital tools, mentorship programs, and a 60-day free trial of the Shopify platform. The partnership includes delivering ongoing support to Indigenous entrepreneurs through initiatives such as Tuesday Tips, Podcasts, eBlasts, training and other opportunities designed to equip Indigenous entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today's rapidly evolving business landscape.

Shopify will also actively engage its employees and Indigenous merchants in Pow Wow Pitch's events and initiatives. This collaborative approach will see Shopify professionals serving as judges and mentors, providing invaluable guidance and expertise to Indigenous entrepreneurs participating in Pow Wow Pitch's virtual and in-person events. Kyle Brennan Shàwinipinesì, Shopify's Senior Lead for Indigenous Entrepreneurship, will also continue serving on Pow Wow Pitch's Advisory Council to provide strategic guidance to Pow Wow Pitch as it embarks on defining its strategy for the next five years.

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "We are thrilled to strengthen our partnership with Shopify, a steadfast ally in our mission to empower Indigenous entrepreneurs. Shopify's unwavering commitment to supporting Indigenous businesses has been instrumental in driving positive change within our communities. With their continued support, we are confident in our ability to unlock the full potential of Indigenous entrepreneurship and foster lasting economic prosperity."

Kyle Brennan Shàwinipinesì echoed the sentiment, emphasizing Shopify's commitment to empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs. "At Shopify, we recognize the transformative power of entrepreneurship in driving positive change within Indigenous communities. We are proud to partner with Pow Wow Pitch in its mission to empower Indigenous entrepreneurs and create pathways to economic prosperity. Through our continued collaboration, we are dedicated to providing Indigenous entrepreneurs with the necessary support and resources to thrive."

Pow Wow Pitch and Shopify are dedicated to exploring new avenues for growth and innovation. Together, the two organizations are also working to optimize and expand Powwowmarket.ca, a vital platform for Indigenous merchants to showcase their products and reach a broader audience and explore innovative in-person retail experiences that provide new platforms for Indigenous merchants, businesses, and brands to connect with consumers. Through these efforts, Pow Wow Pitch and Shopify are pioneering new pathways for Indigenous economic empowerment and community-driven economic development.

For more information about Pow Wow Pitch and Shopify's partnership, please visit powwowpitch.org/shopify.

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Tracy Antoine brings a wealth of experience in Indigenous economic development, having previously worked with Indigenous communities, government agencies, and non-profit organizations in management roles and as a Board of Director. She holds an MBA degree with a focus on First Nations land management regimes supporting economic development for First Nation communities in British Columbia, which adds depth to her expertise.

Having been employed by RBC since 2006, Tracy has held various personal financial service roles, ranging from Client Service Representative to Branch Manager. Since 2011, she has served as an Industry Specialist in Indigenous Banking, demonstrating her commitment to supporting Indigenous economic growth within the banking sector.

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, expressed her excitement for Tracy's appointment, stating, "Tracy Antoine brings a unique blend of experience and expertise to our Advisory Council. Her dedication to Indigenous economic empowerment aligns perfectly with our mission at Pow Wow Pitch. We are honoured to welcome Tracy aboard and eagerly anticipate collaborating to uplift Indigenous entrepreneurs and communities."

As a member of the Pow Wow Pitch Advisory Council, Tracy will provide invaluable insights and perspectives, leveraging her deep understanding of Indigenous economic development and her passion for supporting Indigenous businesses. Her appointment signifies a significant step forward in Pow Wow Pitch's efforts to foster economic prosperity and cultural revitalization within Indigenous communities.

"I am honored to join the Advisory Council of Pow Wow Pitch, a pivotal platform dedicated to empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs,” said Tracy Antoine. “For me, this appointment represents an opportunity to amplify the voices of Indigenous entrepreneurs and contribute to meaningful economic empowerment. Growing up in Stu’xtews, I understand firsthand the importance of preserving our heritage while embracing innovation and entrepreneurship. By leveraging my experience in Indigenous economic development and banking, I am committed to fostering a supportive environment where Indigenous businesses can thrive, bringing about positive change and prosperity within our communities."

Together, with leaders like Tracy Antoine on board, Pow Wow Pitch reaffirms its unwavering commitment to catalyzing Indigenous economic empowerment, paving the way for a future where Indigenous entrepreneurs thrive, cultures flourish, and communities prosper across Turtle Island.

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Todd Evans brings over 30 years of experience in economic development and international trade, with a distinguished career at EDC. As the National Lead of Indigenous Exporters, Todd has been instrumental in advancing EDC's strategy for serving Indigenous businesses and engaging with external stakeholders. He holds a BA degree in economics and statistics from Memorial University of Newfoundland and a MA degree in economics from Carleton University in Ottawa.

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, expressed her enthusiasm for Todd's appointment, stating, "Todd Evans brings a wealth of experience and dedication to our Advisory Council. His commitment to supporting Indigenous businesses aligns perfectly with our mission at Pow Wow Pitch. We are thrilled to have Todd on board, and we look forward to working together to empower Indigenous entrepreneurs and strengthen Indigenous communities."

As a member of the Pow Wow Pitch Advisory Council, Todd will bring invaluable expertise and perspective to the organization. His deep understanding of Indigenous entrepreneurship and passion for supporting Indigenous businesses will help guide ongoing initiatives to empower and uplift Indigenous entrepreneurs. Todd's appointment marks a significant milestone in Pow Wow Pitch's journey to support economic prosperity and cultural revitalization within Indigenous communities.

Todd Evans expressed his motivation for joining the Advisory Council, stating, "In a world driven by globalization and interconnected economies, the importance of trade cannot be overstated. For Indigenous communities across Turtle Island, trade has always been an integral part of our heritage, identity, and economic survival. I am joining the Pow Wow Pitch Advisory Council because I believe in the power of entrepreneurship to drive positive change and economic prosperity within Indigenous communities."

Through collaborative efforts with industry and government leaders like Todd Evans, Pow Wow Pitch remains committed to fostering economic prosperity, cultural revitalization, and empowerment within Indigenous communities.

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