On September 7, Pow Wow Pitch, North America’s premier pitch competition for Indigenous entrepreneurs, presented in partnership with RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard, announced three winners of the Consumer Semi-Final category:

• Consumer Bath, Body and Beauty Winner: Shay Dekock-Kruger, the Penticton Indian Band Founder of HOLO EYES from Penticton, British Columbia. 
• Consumer Retail Winner: Chelsee Pettit, the Aamjiwnaang Founder of aaniin retail inc. from Tkaronto, Ontario.
• Consumer Products Winner: Tanis Simpson, the Inuvialuit Founder of Qiviut Inc. from Nisku, Alberta.

Each winner has won $1,000 and is advancing to the Finals for a chance to win $25,000 to grow their businesses.

More than 2,000 Indigenous entrepreneurs from across Canada and the United States applied to Pow Wow Pitch this year for their chance to win cash prizes and advance to the Pow Wow Pitch Finals. From the 2,000 applicants, 130 were selected as Semi-Finalists and provided with training and mentorship to prepare for their semi-final pitch to the Judges.

Last night, Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch, emceed the action-packed program, where the fifteen Consumer Semi-Finalists had the opportunity to pitch their business ideas and businesses in one minute for their chance to win. 

Judges included Eric Turner, Vice President, Business Markets, Greater Toronto Region at RBC; Sean Myomi Hougan, Head of Revenue & Operations at Aurora Heat; Amisha Parikh, VP Product Management and Loyalty at Mastercard; Pam Devonshire, Business Development Manager ecommerce and Parcels at Canada Post; and Meagan Francis, Senior Advisor of Working Capital Solutions at EDC.

Consumer Bath, Body and Beauty Semi-Final Spotlight

“I decided to pitch again this year because my business [HOLO EYES] is now in a better position to scale and launch into other global markets,” said the 2023 Consumer Bath, Body and Beauty Pow Wow Pitch Winner Shay Dekock-Kruger, Founder of HOLO EYES. “It’s proven to be a successful business model through organic sales on Amazon. My business has also been a super fun way for me to express my creativity while also creating fun experiences for others.”

HOLO EYES is an eye makeup and stickers brand that specializes in boosting eye looks at festivals and powwows. HOLO EYES is making waves on social media through their popularity with festival goers.“I hope that my business can be an example to other Indigenous people to show that you can turn a creative idea into a business,” said Shay.

Click here to watch Shay Dekock-Kruger’s winning pitch.

The tied Runners Up for the Consumer Bath, Body and Beauty Semi-Final were Marissa Dube, Founder of Eiralize Lashes and Tanya Gluvakov, Founder of Roots + Raven. 

Consumer Retail Semi-Final Spotlight

“I was inspired [to apply for Pow Wow Pitch] having seen the number of businesses that have been elevated by the program firsthand,” said the 2023 Consumer Retail Winner Chelsee Pettit, Founder of aaniin retail inc. “Now that aaniin has made so many strides over the past year, I couldn’t wait to share them with the Pow Wow Pitch audience and community!”

aaniin retail inc is a street wear brand and main-street retail space with a vision and concept to become a high-street retail chain in major shopping centres across Canada. aaniin retail inc has a vision to create more opportunities for Indigenous business and youth to grow and scale impact together. Chelsee projects her values into her company with her values of community, collaboration, and connection. “Our mission is to reclaim the Indigenous economy through fashion and commerce,” said Chelsee.

“This year, our biggest focus is on growing our e-commerce platform and building capacity as we ready for a very busy Black Friday and holiday season,” said the 2023 Consumer Retail Winner Chelsee Pettit, Founder of aaniin retail inc. “We have big things planned for our customers and these stages are crucial for our planned national retail growth.”

Click here to watch Chelsee Pettit’s winning pitch.

The tied Runners Up for the Consumer Retail Semi-Finals were Jenna Valiquette, Founder of Eagle Woman Prints and Frances Edwards, Founder of La Petite Serre. 

Consumer Products Semi-Final Spotlight

“I decided to pitch again because I had an amazing experience last year and the Pow Wow Pitch team is so great to work with,” said the 2023 Consumer Products Winner Tanis Simpson, Founder of Qiviut Inc. “They are empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs to achieve their dreams and are providing valuable information and mentorship to help us grow not only our business but ourselves. Also I couldn’t pass up the chance of possibly winning $25,000 for the Qiviut Inc team!” 

Qiviut Inc. is an Inuvialuit-owned business based in Nisku, Alberta, rooted in the traditional knowledge of qiviut fibre harvesting and muskox hunting that is now manufacturing high-quality qiviut yarns and knitwear. Founder, Tanis Simpson, is proud to carry on the traditions that have kept her family warm for future generations. Tanis prides her company on being Inuit-owned and gives back by creating opportunities for muskox hunters that provide for their families. “With support from Pow Wow Pitch, we can create more jobs for our communities and purchase more equipment to fulfill our orders,” Tanis shared in her pitch.

Click here to watch Tanis Simpson’s winning pitch.

The Runner Up for the Consumer Products Semi-Final was Lawrence Crowfoot, Founder of Crowfoot Collective.

“Congratulations to Shay, Chelsea, and Tanis on Winning the 2023 Consumer Semi-Finals and for advancing to the  Finals,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “We love seeing Indigenous brands and products on store shelves and taking up retail space across Turtle Island– it is ‘Land Back’ through entrepreneurship and you are leading the growth of the Indigenous economy! We are so proud of you. Congratulations also to all of the Consumer Semi-Finalists, you were all so great – keep going! The world needs your businesses to keep thriving!”

“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 Michael Ferencich, Senior Vice President, Business Financial Services, RBC. “We’re so proud of all our participants and semi-finalists, and we will continue to support their growth and success in the future.”

“Being involved in Pow Wow Pitch is not just an honor, it’s a privilege to witness the creativity and innovation of Indigenous entrepreneurs,” said Kyle Brennan Shàwinipinesì, Build Native Program Manager at Shopify. “It’s a reminder of the resilience and strength of our communities and the power of entrepreneurship to create positive change. 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 an incredible opportunity for Indigenous entrepreneurs!”

“At Mastercard, we’ve been inspired by the innovative thinking and solutions brought forward by all the Indigenous entrepreneurs involved in this year’s Pow Wow Pitch,” said Sasha Krstic, President of Mastercard in Canada. “The future is brighter when Indigenous entrepreneurship is recognized, supported and celebrated, and we are honoured to play a role in continued success and growth of these entrepreneurs. Congratulations to all the pitchers and congratulations to Rachael Hunt on advancing to the next round.”

To watch the 2023 Pow Wow Pitch Consumer Brand and Retail Semi-Final, click here. 

Shay, Chelsee, and Tanis will now all advance to the Pow Wow Pitch Finals to pitch for the Grand Prize of $25,000, which broadcasts online on October 19th. Visit www.powwowpitch.org for more information.

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Ashley Michel is the Secwepemc owner and artist of 4 Generations Creations, operating in Kamloops, British Columbia. Having not grown up deeply embedded in the culture and language as she would have preferred, Ashley’s determination was fuelled by a desire to provide what she missed for her daughter. “I wanted my daughter to have authentic representation and a better future not only for her but the generations to come,” she reflects.

Ashley’s entrepreneurial journey began with sewing regalia and ribbon skirts for the Indigenous community. But as with many businesses, the global pandemic became a catalyst for change. “I expanded during Covid and now distribute fabric, beads and ribbon, as well as create designs that empower and educate others about Indigenous issues and resiliency,” she says.

Ashley’s vision for 4 Generations Creations is expansive. Not only does she plan on transitioning from online sales to a brick-and-mortar store, but she also aspires to inspire and equip the Indigenous youth. “My goal is to print my products in-house and also create a new stream of revenue to print products for other individuals, organizations, and businesses. This will allow me to hire, train, and inspire Indigenous youth within our community,” she elaborates.

“The rewarding part about being an entrepreneur is being able to work from home and create a life that’s good for me and my daughter,” she remarks, highlighting her desire for authentic representation. Yet, with great passion comes challenges, and for Ashley, the most significant challenge is separating herself from her work. “Work to me doesn’t feel like work,” she admits, adding that her venture is both her “passion” and her “healing.”

Recognizing the significance of community in her entrepreneurial journey, Ashley believes in the power of collaboration over competition. “It is true what they say. It takes a Community,” she emphasizes, viewing Pow Wow Pitch as a manifestation of that belief. Her mentors, Maria Artuso & Matthew Norton from RBC, echo this community sentiment, advising her to “speak from the heart” and reminding her that she knows her business best.

A reflection of Secwepemc values, Ashley’s business integrates Indigenous approaches throughout. “A big lesson that I implement is putting the good vibes and energy into anything I am doing,” she says, stressing the importance of positive energy in her work.

So, what advice does this rising entrepreneur have for newcomers in the business world? “Don’t underestimate the power of social media,” she advises, acknowledging its transformative effect on her own venture. Furthermore, Ashley underscores the importance of self-belief: “Starting a business is a lot about taking a risk, but it’s more about believing in yourself and what you’re doing.”

In a world filled with diverse voices and stories, Ashley Michel stands out, using her business not only as a means to financial success but as a platform to empower, educate, and inspire the next generation of Indigenous leaders. As she continues to evolve and grow 4 Generations Creations, her impact on her community is unbounded.

Register to watch Ashley pitch at the Consumer Semi-Final Online Watch Party on September 7, 2023, at 6 PM ET and vote for 4 Generations Creations to win the 2023 People’s Choice Prize (#2) before September 17, 2023.

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In the heart of downtown Winnipeg, Jenna Valiquette’s dream took flight. With a degree in Indigenous Studies and a passion for music, one wouldn’t necessarily have expected Jenna, who belongs to the Poplar River First Nation, to dive into the world of visual arts. But as she discovered, sometimes our calling finds us in unexpected ways.

“I started out by illustrating the 7 Grandfather Teachings in a minimalist, eye-catching way,” Jenna recalls. At a youth drop-in centre, Jenna’s print bridged the gap between traditional knowledge and contemporary thinking, becoming a powerful conversation starter between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. “Art helps build a bridge between Indigenous and non-Indigenous ways of knowing,” she affirms.

This revelation led to the birth of Eagle Woman Prints – a small business that has rapidly grown in stature and reach within its first year. With an aim to make “Indigenous ways of knowing affordable, accessible and modern,” Jenna’s venture has breathed life into art that reflects the vibrant tapestry of Indigenous culture. Her pieces harmoniously fit into any setting.

The success of Eagle Woman Prints isn’t just measured in sales, but in the lives it touches. With prints shipped across continents, the enterprise’s impact is undeniable. Jenna shares, “Meeting Elders, Knowledge Keepers, Indigenous youth, parents, educators… has had a huge impact on my life.” One poignant moment for her was witnessing a young girl find representation in her art. “She ran over to the wall, pointed up at the art print and said, ‘Look, she looks like me!'” Jenna recounts. Such moments validate the profound significance of representation and the lasting influence of her prints.

Entrepreneurship is seldom a smooth ride, and Jenna faced her share of challenges. “Sometimes the feeling that you don’t belong in the ‘driver’s seat’ of your business sneaks up,” she admits, acknowledging the reality of impostor syndrome. Yet, her journey with Pow Wow Pitch instilled in her a newfound confidence and a clearer vision for Eagle Woman Prints. She expresses immense gratitude to her mentor Tammy Collins, who helped her hone her pitch to reflect her passion and mission.

A striking facet of Jenna’s entrepreneurial spirit is her community-first approach. “Instead of focusing solely on profit margins, I measure my success by ‘how have I helped my community this month?’,” she says. For her, Indigenous entrepreneurship is grounded in reciprocity, unity, and the celebration of every distinct Indigenous culture.

Her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is heartfelt: “Build a strong support system… Staying grounded in your culture and beliefs will help shape your mindset. Be prepared to adapt and learn as you go. Set big goals and little goals – and celebrate all you have accomplished!”

Jenna’s story isn’t just hers; it’s an inspiration, a beacon, and a testament to the strength and resilience of Indigenous communities. Through Eagle Woman Prints, Jenna Valiquette has sown seeds that will continue to sprout, flourish, and make a difference in countless lives.

Register to watch Jenna pitch at the Consumer Semi-Final Online Watch Party on September 7, 2023, at 6 PM ET and vote for Eagle Woman Prints to win the 2023 People’s Choice Prize (#26) before September 17, 2023.

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In Alliston, Ontario, there’s a ripple of change – and at its center is Tanya Gluvakov, from Six Nations of the Grand River, and her enterprise, Roots and Raven.

Tanya’s venture sprouted from a deeply personal place. “Roots and Raven was born out of my interest in sharing the positive effect that connecting to land has on both our mental and physical well-being,” Tanya shared. Her first-hand battle with anxiety and depression reinforced the importance of nature in healing. “Having experienced issues with anxiety and depression, I know firsthand the dramatic positive effects of connecting to land by way of growing, harvesting, and using botanical products.”

Roots and Raven isn’t just about botanical products. As Tanya passionately describes, “We focus on sharing not only our botanical products but also how the ‘process’ of growing, harvesting and connecting to the very land that a lot of our botanicals come from.” Tanya envisions her brand expanding beyond its current state, aiming for a brick and mortar store that not only retails but becomes a sanctuary of learning and community.

Tanya’s entrepreneurial journey is a testament to resilience. This summer, she hosted the first-ever “Honouring Anishnabe” section at Alliston Ontario’s potato festival. An event that, for the first time in 51 years, acknowledged the Indigenous community. “Being an entrepreneur has helped me give our people a voice in my small town here in Ontario,” she remarked.

This drive to push boundaries is also evident in her participation in the Pow Wow Pitch competition. Facing initial doubts, she found strength in the support of the community. “I proved to myself, with the encouragement of the Pow Wow Pitch team, that I can do hard things. That already is a win!”

Tanya’s mentors, Tammy Collins and Melissa White from RBC, played crucial roles in bolstering her belief. From being reminded to “be proud of [her] achievements” by Tammy to understanding the impact of personal stories from Melissa, these interactions fueled her determination and gratitude.

When asked about the challenges of entrepreneurship, Tanya candidly acknowledges the uphill climb. From managing supplier costs, inventory space, to juggling the roles of a mom and business owner, she admits, “Being an entrepreneur is hard. But, we can do hard things.”

But it’s not just about business. Roots and Raven offers more than products – it offers healing. Tanya emphasizes the theme of reciprocity as she works with plants. “With every wild forage, there is an exchange of tobacco and an ask for harvest from the plant. The land held me when I was falling. When I didn’t think I could stand back up, she held me up.”

Tanya’s advice to budding entrepreneurs, especially those from the Indigenous community, is heartfelt and empowering. “Doing what fills you up makes the hard days worth it,” she encourages. “One foot in front of the other is so much more than none.”

Tanya Gluvakov’s journey is a beacon of hope, resilience, and the boundless power of connection. Through Roots and Raven, she not only shares a piece of her heart but also inspires countless others to embrace their dreams and the healing embrace of nature. As she herself says, “Get out there. We can all do hard things.”

Register to watch Tanya pitch at the Consumer Semi-Final Online Watch Party on September 7, 2023, at 6 PM ET and vote for Roots and Raven to win the 2023 People’s Choice Prize (#83) before September 17, 2023.

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From a single photograph of Hailey Bieber to a thriving eye makeup sticker venture, Shay Dekock-Kruger, Founder of HOLO EYES, from the Penticton Indian Band in Penticton, British Columbia, took her inspiration and built a dazzling community. “When I saw Hailey Bieber’s holographic eyeliner sticker, a rush of creativity surged through me. I knew I could create my own designs and tap into the music festival and nightclub scenes,” Shay begins, her eyes glowing with the same sparkle that characterizes her business, HOLO EYES.

HOLO EYES isn’t just about eye stickers; it’s an experience. Shay’s unique proposition lies in her mobile face paint and glitter bar services. “Imagine being at a festival or a party and getting glammed up in glitter, face paint, and our signature holographic stickers. That’s HOLO EYES for you!” she exclaims.

Currently, Shay single-handedly runs the business, yet her dreams are grand. “Though I operate chiefly in Canada and the USA, there’s demand from the UK, which I’m looking to tap into,” she reveals. With an expansion plan in her sights, Shay dreams of a broader product line, more trained staff, and more festival bookings.

For Shay, the joy lies in creating memorable experiences. “The photoshoots for HOLO EYES, seeing happy customers, it’s immensely rewarding,” she says. However, she has not been without challenges. “One of the biggest fashion brands copied my product and unique packaging design. It was a tough phase,” she recalls.

Being part of the Pow Wow Pitch has been an exhilarating experience for Shay. “It’s a fantastic platform. Beyond the monetary benefits, it offers great exposure,” she shares. In her entrepreneurial journey, Shay has leaned on mentors Madelaine Clerk from Shopify & Stephane St-Hilaire from RBC for pitch guidance and moral support.

When asked about the Indigenous approach to entrepreneurship, Shay’s face lights up, “The essence of Indigenous entrepreneurship is the value of family and community. In HOLO EYES, I ensure that we foster a sense of community. Every product, every photoshoot, and every mobile service is a step towards bringing people together.”

Shay’s experiences have also taught her the importance of a strong online presence. “Good photos and effective website copywriting are paramount. Your product needs to be easily searchable and visually appealing,” she advises.

To budding Indigenous entrepreneurs, Shay offers a pearl of wisdom: “Know your costs. Ensure your business can be a profitable long-term investment. And most importantly, don’t undersell yourself. Initially, you might offer products for free to gather feedback but remember, it’s about scaling up effectively.”

HOLO EYES is not just a business; it’s a vision. A vision of glittering nights, musical festivals, and the joy of community. And at the heart of it is Shay Dekock-Kruger, painting the world one holographic sticker at a time.
Register to watch Shay pitch at the Consumer Semi-Final Online Watch Party on September 13, 2023, at 6 PM ET and vote for Shay to win the 2023 People’s Choice Prize (#37) before September 17, 2023.

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