Pow Wow Pitch and the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) are excited to announce the release of a new video series showcasing nine emerging Indigenous creative entrepreneurs who received $2,500 mini-grants to support Indigenous tourism businesses. This partnership between ITAC and Pow Wow Pitch is the first of its kind, highlighting the importance of Indigenous creativity in the growing tourism sector.

THE JOURNEY

In July 2022, nine creative entrepreneurs were selected from the semi-finalists of the 2022 Pow Wow Pitch competition and paired with nine Pow Wow Pitch tourism semi-finalists. From July to October 2022, the entrepreneurs supported the tourism businesses with various projects, including photography, logo design, promotional videos, animated ads, digital assets, and artistic creations connected to the land.

On November 3rd, ITAC awarded a $15,000 grant commission to the creative entrepreneur who impressed them the most with their mini-project. The winner was Eva Nicholas, Founder of Wabanaki Creations and Art, for her project entitled Oonamaki Roots in partnership with Under the Stump in Newfoundland & Labrador.

“I draw my inspiration from my love for my culture and my passion for sharing what is sacred,” said Eva Nicholas, 2022 Creative Pitch Winner, from We’koqmaq First Nation, Cape Bretton, Nova Scotia. “Creative professionals, artists and knowledge keepers are so important to the Indigenous tourism sector. Thank you for this opportunity for my business and to collaborate with another Indigenous entrepreneur to share my knowledge of the land and art.”

THE VIDEO SERIES 

As the summation of the pilot initiative, the launch of this 9-part video series is a celebration of the hard work and talent and an inspiring look at the potential of Indigenous tourism.

“We are proud to release this video series showcasing the hard work and creativity of these nine Indigenous creative entrepreneurs,” said Keith Henry, President and CEO of ITAC. “Their contributions have been invaluable in growing the Indigenous tourism sector, and we look forward to their continued impact. Thank you for your dedication and impact on the tourism businesses you supported.”

“Indigenous creative entrepreneurs have the power to transform industries, and this pilot program was a testament to the potential for collaboration and cooperation between Indigenous entrepreneurs,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “We are grateful to ITAC for trusting us with this important initiative, and we congratulate all of the creative and tourism entrepreneurs who participated with enthusiasm. You are each paving the way for others to follow.”

The nine-part video series showcasing the Mini-Projects can be found at powwowpitch.org/2022-creative-pitch.

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