Cole Clark, STLN LNDS, wins Creative Semi-Final

Cole Clark, STLN LNDS, wins Creative Semi-Final

On September 13, Pow Wow Pitch, North America’s premier pitch competition for Indigenous entrepreneurs, presented in partnership with RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard, announced Cole Clark, the Behchoko Founder of STLN LNDS from Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, as the 2023 Pow Wow Pitch Creative Winner. Cole Clark has won $1,000 and is advancing to the Finals for a chance to win $25,000 to grow his business.

Give back to your community

Give back to your community

Inspiration often has roots in personal experiences, and for Kelly and Ramona, it’s no different. Kelly recalls the indomitable spirit of her grandmother, an educator who ventured back to college at sixty. “She always gave back to her community even when she didn’t have a lot to give,” Kelly reflects. This commitment to community and relentless spirit reverberates in their work ethos.

Listen to your customer

Listen to your customer

Embracing her Indigenous roots, Kristine’s approach to entrepreneurship is all-encompassing. “My studio, whether virtual or in-person, is a sanctuary. A haven where love and respect reign supreme,” she explains. She believes that while there’s significant progress in accepting Indigenous entrepreneurs, the road is still long.

Remember it’s about the journey

Remember it’s about the journey

Drawing from her rich journey, Brooke offers wisdom for budding Indigenous entrepreneurs: “Stay grounded in your purpose.” For her, entrepreneurship is rooted in the lessons learned, challenges surmounted, and personal growth. “One of the most significant lessons I’ve learned,” she reflects, “is that the journey is just as valuable, if not more so, than the end results.”

Use a two-eyed approach to stay grounded

Use a two-eyed approach to stay grounded

Through her entrepreneurial journey, Rebecca’s most vital takeaway has been the essence of financial management and bookkeeping. For budding Indigenous entrepreneurs, her advice is crystal clear: “Start out with small goals to achieve your bigger goals, and making connections is the key to success.” She extends her gratitude to those who’ve aided her journey, saying, “Without a good network, a business cannot stand alone.”