As Pow Wow Pitch enters its 11th season, this continued collaboration reflects a shared commitment to creating more opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs to strengthen their businesses, access mentorship, and explore pathways into international markets.

Through EDC’s support, Pow Wow Pitch will continue to expand its virtual programming, deliver in-person experiences in communities across Turtle Island, and provide Indigenous entrepreneurs with tools and resources to help grow their businesses with confidence.

EDC team members will once again participate as judges for the Pow Wow Pitch Indigenous Business Pitch Competition and support entrepreneurs through mentorship and knowledge-sharing opportunities throughout the season. EDC will also continue presenting the Export Award as part of the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, recognizing an Indigenous entrepreneur demonstrating strong potential for growth beyond local markets.

Anthony Wingham, Co Founder of Nuez Acres® and a semi finalist in the 2021 Pow Wow Pitch competition, credits the experience with helping shape the company’s growth and export journey: “Pow Wow Pitch gave us more than a platform to share Nuez Acres®. It helped connect us to a community of Indigenous entrepreneurs, mentors, and partners who understood both the opportunity and the challenges of building a business. Through that journey, connections with organizations like EDC helped us think bigger about export, growth, and what was possible beyond our local market. It is exciting to see this partnership continue so more Indigenous entrepreneurs can access mentorship, relationships, and support as they grow their businesses.”

Donna St. Louis, National Lead, Indigenous Business, Inclusive Trade at EDC, shared the importance of continuing the partnership: “Indigenous entrepreneurs are building innovative businesses that are creating new opportunities within their communities and beyond. Through our ongoing collaboration with Pow Wow Pitch, we’re proud to help entrepreneurs access the knowledge, connections, and support they need as they explore growth in international markets.”

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, emphasized the value of the collaboration: “We’re grateful to continue working alongside EDC to support Indigenous entrepreneurs as they explore new opportunities for growth and expansion. This partnership helps provide entrepreneurs with access to mentorship, business knowledge, and encouragement as they build businesses rooted in their values, communities, and long-term goals.”

Grounded in a shared respect for Indigenous cultures, traditions, and entrepreneurship, Pow Wow Pitch and EDC are working together to support Indigenous business owners through accessible programming, relationship-building, and practical business supports. Together, the partnership helps create more opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs to strengthen their businesses and pursue new opportunities across Canada and internationally.

About Pow Wow Pitch

Pow Wow Pitch is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting and funding early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island, with the co-presenting support of Mastercard and RBC. Our vision is to create a world where Indigenous entrepreneurs thrive, feeling supported, safe, and encouraged to develop their ideas and build businesses that create a positive cycle of growth. With a mission to provide resources and mentorship, we empower Indigenous entrepreneurs while amplifying their stories to inspire future generations and foster a more inclusive world.

For more information, visit powwowpitch.org.

Media Contact
Destiny Maluga
Communications Coordinator, Pow Wow Pitch
hello@powwowpitch.org

About Export Development Canada

Export Development Canada (EDC) is a financial Crown corporation dedicated to helping Canadian businesses make an impact at home and abroad. EDC has the financial products and knowledge Canadian companies need to confidently enter new markets, reduce financial risk and grow their business as they go from local to global. Together, EDC and Canadian companies are building a more prosperous, stronger and sustainable economy for all Canadians.

For more information and to learn how we can assist your company, call us at 1-800-229-0575 or visit  www.edc.ca.

Media Contact
Media
Export Development Canada
1-888-222-4065
media@edc.ca

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Building on the success of the previous years, EDC remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs. EDC’s contribution ensures that Pow Wow Pitch can amplify its virtual programs, expand in-person support in communities across Canada, and grow its offerings to support Indigenous entrepreneurs to pursue global markets.

EDC’s active engagement will extend to judging Pow Wow Pitch events online and participating in person at powwows across Canada. Moreover, EDC employees will play an integral role as mentors, providing guidance and support to Indigenous entrepreneurs on their Pow Wow Pitch journey. Additionally, EDC will present the EDC Export Award as part of the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, recognizing an outstanding business ready to expand into global markets.

Donna St. Louis, National Lead, Indigenous Business, Inclusive Trade at EDC, highlighted the value of working together to support Indigenous entrepreneurs: “Trade has long been an important part of Indigenous business. Our partnership with Pow Wow Pitch is about celebrating Indigenous entrepreneurs and providing them with more opportunities to grow through access to trade expertise and financial solutions to protect your business against risk and access to working capital from your financial institution.” 

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating, “We’re thrilled to continue our partnership with EDC to help early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs explore global market opportunities. Through training, support, and encouragement, we are empowering Indigenous businesses to grow and trade on their own terms across Turtle Island and beyond.”

Rooted in respect for Indigenous history, traditions, and culture, EDC and Pow Wow Pitch are committed to empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs by removing barriers to growth. Through this partnership, EDC is fostering pathways to economic self-determination, strengthening community capacity, and equipping Indigenous entrepreneurs with the tools, resources, and opportunities to thrive in Canada and beyond.

About Pow Wow Pitch

Pow Wow Pitch is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting and funding early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island, with the co-presenting support of Mastercard and RBC. Our vision is to create a world where Indigenous entrepreneurs thrive, feeling supported, safe, and encouraged to develop their ideas and build businesses that create a positive cycle of growth. With a mission to provide resources and mentorship, we empower Indigenous entrepreneurs while amplifying their stories to inspire future generations and foster a more inclusive world.

For more information, visit powwowpitch.org.

About Export Development Canada

Export Development Canada (EDC) is a financial Crown corporation committed to helping Canadian companies of all sizes flourish on the global stage. As international risk experts, EDC empowers Canadian companies with the tools they need – trade knowledge, financing solutions, equity, insurance, and connections – to confidently expand their business. We remain committed to sustainable and responsible business. Our work with Indigenous businesses helps them bring their products and services to global markets, reinforcing economic self-reliance and community prosperity.

For more information and to learn how we can assist your company, visit us at EDC’s website.

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The awards continue their mission to celebrate excellence and remarkable achievements in Indigenous entrepreneurship, recognizing outstanding Indigenous entrepreneurs and Indigenous-owned businesses across Canada.

Presented in collaboration with esteemed partners Mastercard and RBC, and with the support of Sklar Wilton & Associates, Altis Recruitment, and Export Development Canada, these awards stand as a testament to the resilience, innovation, and cultural richness of Indigenous entrepreneurship.

Eligible applicants must be Indigenous entrepreneurs with a minimum of three years of business operation in Canada. Nominations and applications will remain open until June 3, 2025, culminating in the announcement and celebration of recipients during a digitally broadcast awards presentation on November 12, 2025.

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, shared, “As we mark the 5th year of the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, we look forward to celebrating the remarkable visionaries who are trailblazing and inspiring the next generation. These Awards showcase the perseverance and excellence of Indigenous entrepreneurs—honouring resilience, innovation, and the entrepreneurial spirit that drives our communities forward.”

Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs & Policy and Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard, reinforced the importance of recognizing the successes of Indigenous entrepreneurs, stating, “By supporting and uplifting Indigenous entrepreneurs, we ensure their stories and contributions are recognized. In partnership with Pow Wow Pitch, we are helping to create an environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed, driving a more inclusive and prosperous future for Canada.”

Chinyere Eni, Head of RBC Origins, emphasized the significance of the 2025 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, stating: “The impact of Indigenous entrepreneurs on Canada’s economy is profound. Their leadership drives innovation, strengthens communities, and fosters a more inclusive future. We are proud to support the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards as part of our ongoing commitment to recognizing and celebrating the talent, determination, and achievements of Indigenous innovators. Their stories of entrepreneurship continue to inspire and shape a brighter tomorrow.”

Libier Gomez, Managing Director of Sklar Wilton & Associates, highlights the importance of acknowledging the contributions of Indigenous entrepreneurs, stating, “Indigenous entrepreneurs play a vital role in shaping the economy and communities across Turtle Island, bringing traditional wisdom to the modern world. Sklar Wilton & Associates is proud to continue supporting the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, honouring exceptional leaders who create a lasting impact for future generations.”

Kathryn Tremblay, Co-founder and Owner of Altis Recruitment, shared, “We’re honoured to support this celebration of Indigenous excellence by recognizing inspiring entrepreneurial leaders who are shaping the future of their industries and strengthening the fabric of their communities. We look forward to celebrating the success and community leadership of these exceptional Indigenous entrepreneurs.” 

Donna St. Louis, National Lead, Indigenous Business, Inclusive Trade at Export Development Canada, highlights the importance of  the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards in acknowledging the profound impact of Indigenous businesses. “These Awards celebrate the vision, leadership, and economic influence of Indigenous entrepreneurs who are driving innovation, creating opportunities, and strengthening their communities. By honouring their achievements, we reaffirm our commitment to a future where Indigenous businesses are not only thriving but shaping industries and inspiring the next generation of leaders.”

The Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards are a testament to the vitality of Indigenous entrepreneurship, empowering entrepreneurs and amplifying the growth and impact of Indigenous businesses. To nominate or submit an application, please visit powwowpitch.org/awards.

‘Cervidae‘, Official Art of the 2025 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards by Tsista Kennedy.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact: Keely Thompson-Cook at keely@powwowpitch.org

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