Alicia Kayley Archives - Pow Wow Pitch

Pow Wow Pitch Reveals Contents of 2024 Box

Keely Thompson-Cook — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 13:31:32 +0000

Pow Wow Pitch Box set to feature fourteen products from Indigenous entrepreneurs from across Turtle Island

Pow Wow Pitch, an Indigenous-led non-profit organization that empowers and supports Indigenous entrepreneurs, is proud to present this year’s Pow Wow Pitch Box in partnership with RBC, Shopify and Mastercard, and in collaboration with Canada Post and Indigenous Prosperity Foundation. The contents of the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Box, featuring fourteen selected products and digital experiences from Indigenous entrepreneurs, has a market value of over $250.

Pow Wow Pitch provides emerging Indigenous-owned businesses with the opportunity to gain exposure and recognition, and access support, mentorship and funding to take their business to the next level. The Pow Wow Pitch Box is a collaborative initiative of Pow Wow Pitch to procure products from Indigenous businesses to support and provide a platform for the entrepreneurs to reach hundreds of new customers.

This year, Pow Wow Pitch has featured fourteen products and digital experiences spanning from bath, body, and stationary, to apparel, home, and food products. In addition, the box is also presented with art from Indigenous artists: Steven Paul Judd’s ‘All My Relations’ mosaic piece and Tenille K. Campbell’s ‘What If’ poem written for Indigenous entrepreneurs.

Spotlight on this year’s Pow Wow Pitch Box products:

Limited Edition Aaniin Bubble Scarf & Beanie

From aaniin retail Inc., founded by Chelsee Pettit from Aamjiwnaang First Nation, and in collaboration with Pow Wow Pitch, this limited edition bubble scarf and beanie hat features yellow and purple colours inspired by the ‘All My Relations’ art piece from Steven Paul Judd and Anishinaabemowin syllabics for the word “aaniin”. Stay warm for the cooler seasons with this matching set that is sure to spark any conversation with “Aaniin” (hello)!

“aaniin is honoured to collaborate with Pow Wow Pitch to bring you this limited edition set,” shared Chelsee Pettit, Founder of aaniin retail Inc. “We hope you love it, and we’re grateful to Pow Wow Pitch for their ongoing support of small businesses.”

‘Amplify Indigenous Voices’ Holographic Sticker

From 4 Generations Creations, founded by Ashley Michel, a Secwepemc mother from Kamloops, BC and 2023 Pow Wow Pitch Winner, the holographic sticker is approximately 4 inches and is perfect to add to your belongings and display your support of Indigenous peoples and communities. Featuring the powerful message ‘Amplify Indigenous Voices,’ this sticker is a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and serves as a way to honour and celebrate Indigenous peoples and their voices. Made with high-quality vinyl, this holographic sticker is waterproof, durable and long-lasting, ensuring that its minimalist yet powerful message will stay visible for years to come.

Prados Beauty X SPJ OG Highlight Palette

From Prados Beauty, founded by Cece Meadows, a Xicana and Indigena woman from Las Cruces, New Mexico, this highlight palette is sure to light up any look. Embrace your inner glow with the Prados Beauty x Steven Paul Judd OG Highlight Palette. This palette features four universally flattering, shimmering gold shades and a pink shade that delivers buildable radiance to all skin tones. The blendable, vegan formula is easy to apply and creates a gorgeous, long-lasting highlighted look.

‘nedi nezu (Good Medicine)’ Poems

Written by Tenille K. Campbell, a Dené and Métis author and photographer from English River First Nation, explores the beautiful space that being a sensual Indigenous woman creates. This poetry collection doesn’t shy away from depicting the gorgeous diversity surrounding the tantalizing laughter of aunties telling stories. Dive into this poetry book and immerse yourself in a sensual exploration of Indigenous culture, irresistibly drawing anyone enchanted by the allure of dating and relationships.

Sagamité Watso Soup

From Sagamité Watso, founded by Jacques T. Watso, the traditional soup from Abenaki culinary heritage of Odanak. This soup mix is made from 9 varieties of beans, hominy corn, spices, and dehydrated vegetables. This staple is good to eat during the colder seasons and serves as a hearty and comforting soup that can pair well with any meat choice to enhance the taste. Enjoy the nutritious blend of Abenaki First Nation-style traditional soup and warm your taste buds.

Whitefish Moon Bear Air Freshener

From Tendesi Air Fresheners, co-founded by sisters Drew and Jennifer Tenasco from Kitigan Zibi Anishinaabeg, the Whitefish Moon Bear Air Freshener features a fresh forest scent to elevate and brighten any indoor or car space. Designed by Drew Tenasco, the air freshener displays gorgeous Anishinaabe art. Add a touch of Indigenous art into your space with the natural scents from Mother Earth with this air freshener.

Breathe Easy Soy Candle

From Ojibway Natural, founded by Nangoons Wabegijig from Ketagauseebee (Garden River) First Nation, the soy candles are hand poured and scented with lavender, eucalyptus, and peppermint essential oils. This blend is excellent for relaxation while naturally clearing airways and alleviating symptoms of cough, cold, and asthma.

Pecan Nourishing Body Scrub

From Nuez Acres, co-founded by Anthony Wingham from the Métis Nation of British Columbia and his partner Nancy Wingham, the Pecan Nourishing Body Scrub offers deep exfoliation to reveal softer, more luminous skin. Nuez Acres’ formula uses expeller-pressed pecans to gently exfoliate and encourage new cell growth, while a blend of hydrating lemon and lavender oils rejuvenates your skin’s natural glow. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation and self-care with their Pecan Nourishing Body Scrub, and experience the ultimate in skincare luxury.

Boujee Native Lip Balm

From Sweetgrass Soap, owned by Francesca Amine from Lac Seul First Nation, this Boujee Native Lip Pointing Grease Lip Balm will nourish and protect your lips with the power of nature. Crafted using select oils and butters and added vitamin E, this premium lip balm will leave your lips moisturized and tasting like pineapples and mangos.

Wood Eagle Keychain

From E3 Apparel, founded by Conlin McDonald from Muskeg Lake Cree Nation, this keychain features a laser printed design of an eagle and the Cree syllabic word for ‘eagle’ on a wooden coin. E3 Apparel is an initiative to promote the relearning of the Cree language through apparel. Start a conversation wherever you go with this unique eagle design.

‘Coureurs des Bois’ Birch Bark Coffee

From Birch Bark Coffee Co., founded by Mark Marsolais-Nahwegahbow from Whitefish River First Nation, this blend of coffee is inspired by the birch trees that surround his community. Indulge in the unique, rich, and fruity flavours of ‘Coureurs des Bois’ (Wooded Runners) whole bean medium roast coffee, where every sip offers a taste that brings you back to Mother Earth and the land that inspired the coffee bean.

Pow Wow Pitch Box recipients will receive special access to three digital experiences from the following Pow Wow Pitch Alumni:

Powwow Experience

From Marmar Media, founded by Marlon Weekusk from Onion Lake Cree Nation, this video shares the rich Indigenous culture, food, dance, and celebration that happens at powwows. It offers an immersive glimpse into the vibrant traditions and communal spirit that defines these gatherings, and invites viewers to experience the joy and unity that comes with these cultural celebrations.

Documentary Film

From Reel Indian Pictures, co-founder Ramona Emerson from Tohatchi, New Mexico, shares a local, grassroots story of youth as they travel to learn from elders to bring awareness to an important issue and find ways to implement change in their own communities. Watch this powerful narrative and find ways to support positive change in your local community.

Digital Song

Alicia Kayley, a singer and songwriter from the Algonquin and Tahltan Nations, shares her voice through a captivating rendition of a Pop R&B song in Anishinaabemowin, showcasing her cultural roots in mainstream music. Experience the magic of Alicia Kayley’s voice and support her artistic journey by sharing her music.

Pre-sales for the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Box closed on June 30th. View these products at powwowpitch.org/box.

The post Pow Wow Pitch Reveals Contents of 2024 Box appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

Paul Owl, TreeTeas Brewing, wins Summer Solstice Semi-Final

Victoria Lennox — Wed, 29 Jun 2022 13:10:27 +0000

Indigenous entrepreneur from Cutler, ON, wins $5,000 and advances to the Pow Wow Pitch Finals

On June 25, 2022, Pow Wow Pitch, North America’s premier pitch competition for Indigenous entrepreneurs, presented in partnership with RBC, Shopify, Meta and Mastercard, announced Paul Owl, Founder and CEO of TeaTreas Brewing from the Serpent River First Nation, as the 2022 Pow Wow Pitch Summer Solstice Winner. Paul has won $5,000 and is advancing to the Finals for a chance to win $25,000 to grow his business.

More than 25 Indigenous entrepreneurs pitched their businesses live at the Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival in Ottawa, Ontario, for their chance to win cash prizes and advance to the Pow Wow Pitch Finals.

Following a first-round open pitch, judges Relay Tangie, CFO of NACCA, Tamer Gabbour, Senior Commercial Account Manager, Not-For-Profit Markets from RBC, Catherine Leteinturier Guisse, Business Centre Manager at BDC, and Zane Buchanan, Creative Content Manager at the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, shortlisted the Top 11 entrepreneurs, who were then matched with mentors from Futurpreneur, RBC, ITAC, CIRA, BDC, Shopify and Futurpreneur to prepare for their final pitch.

After polishing their pitches with the support of mentors, the Top 11 entrepreneurs then pitched to a new panel of esteemed judges including Carrie Batt, Vice President of Business Markets at RBC, Carrie Calder, Global Indigenous Programs Lead at Shopify, Debbie Reid, Indigenous Policy Manager at Meta and Todd Evans, National Lead of Indigenous Exports at Export Development Canada. Following inspiring and powerful pitches and judge deliberations, the audience cheered for their fan favourites, and the judges announced the winners.

“Pow Wow Pitch is about taking that risk and taking that opportunity to get yourself out there to promote your business,” said First-Place Winner Paul Owl. “Even if I didn't win today, people who can support and help me with my business now know who I am. I am a bit emotional that I won because this is my third attempt at pitching. I am really happy that my business struck a cord this year.”

Paul’s business, TreeTeas Brewing, creates natural teas and syrups with flavours from the region. TreeTeas’ new product, Ziibins Nibi, a collaboration brand with Madahoki Farm, is a canned alkaline water beverage from Lanark County infused with wild berry chai and cedar mint signature flavours of TreeTeas.

Paul hopes to win the Grand Prize to add caloric labels to his products, establish his online presence and procure six-unit sustainable packaging featuring local Indigenous art to position his products for significant retailers.

“Advancing to the Pow Wow Pitch Finals is a great opportunity to meet other Indigenous businesses and share that spotlight with them,” said Paul.

The Second-Place $2,500 Prize Winner was Dayna Elijah, Founder and CEO of Spirit Earth Holistics Inc from Oneida First Nation. Dayna’s company produces handcrafted all-natural bath, body care and wellness products with over 150 products from wellness teas and essential oils to shampoo, soaps, bath salts and salves.

“This is my second time being part of Pow Wow Pitch, and I am always open to learning,” said Dayna. “We are growing with ‘Indian country,’ and are now ready to enter the mainstream market. Being part of Pow Wow Pitch can help us to get there.”

The Third-Place Winner of $1,000 was Keri Gray, Founder and CEO of Shades of Gray Indigenous Pet Treats, which offers a wide range of delicacies made of a single ingredient of raw, dehydrated, and freeze-dried free-range rabbit and exotic meats that pets instantly love. Keri pitched to raise funds to build a pet park experience for her community and outside visitors to enjoy.

The Fan Favourite prize winners of $500 each were Janelle Niles, Founder and CEO of Got Land? Comedy who is SIPEKNE’KATIK Mi'kmaw, and singer/entrepreneur Alicia Kayley from Long Point First Nation and Tahltan First Nation.

Dayna, Keri, Janelle, Alicia and all those who pitched in Ottawa are still in the running for the 2022 Pow Wow Pitch and will find out in July if they advance to the Semi-Finals.

“Congratulations to Paul on his Gold Ticket win,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “TreeTeas Brewing is an evolving business that demonstrates collaboration is a winning recipe for Indigenous entrepreneurs. We look forward to spotlighting and sharing Paul’s business with the Pow Wow Pitch community and growing together.”

“Pow Wow Pitch is a tremendous showcase of Indigenous innovation and entrepreneurship, and the stories and achievements of this year’s semi-finalists are a testament to their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit,” said Dale Sturges, National Director for Indigenous Financial Services at RBC. “We’re so proud of all of our participants and semi-finalists, and we will continue to support their growth and success in the future.”

"It was remarkable to take part in Pow Wow Pitch to watch such a talented and creative group of Indigenous entrepreneurs come together," said Carey Calder, Global Indigenous Programs Lead at Shopify. "Although this event has a competitive element, it was incredible to feel the energy and spirit of community and connection between the entrepreneurs and partners. The Build Native team with Shopify has played a proud role in supporting Pow Wow Pitch, so it is exciting to see how things have grown over the years. What a great opportunity for Indigenous entrepreneurs!"

“At Meta, we are thrilled to support Indigenous businesses and entrepreneurs who are driving innovation and change in their communities,” said Debbie Reid, Indigenous Policy Manager at Meta. “Recognizing the importance of Indigenous voices and the limitless potential of Indigenous entrepreneurs is vital to the growth of the Canadian economy. We send our congratulations to Paul Owl on advancing to the next round and to all entrepreneurs who participated in Pow Wow Pitch."

“At Mastercard, we’ve been truly inspired by the Indigenous entrepreneurs involved in this year’s Pow Wow Pitch as they’ve demonstrated such innovative thinking and solutions”, said Sasha Krstic, President of Mastercard Canada. “We are honoured to help support their continued success and see them grow. Congratulations to all the pitchers and congratulations to Paul on advancing to the next round.”

The 2022 virtual semi-finalists will be announced on June 14th and the semi-finals will be broadcast online in September. Visit powwowpitch.org for more information and to get involved.

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