On September 3, 2026, Pow Wow Pitch, an Indigenous-led non-profit organization that hosts Turtle Island’s premier Indigenous Business Pitch Competition for Indigenous entrepreneurs, presented in partnership with RBC and Mastercard, announced Dana Swart, Métis Nation of Alberta Owner of Trailhead Bread, a business based in Crowsnest Pass, Alberta, as the 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Food & Drink Semi-Final Winner. Dana has won $1,000 and is advancing to the Grand Finale for a chance to win $25,000 to grow her business.

More than 120 Indigenous entrepreneurs from across Turtle Island were selected as Semi-Finalists in this year’s Pow Wow Pitch. Each received training and mentorship to prepare for their semi-final pitch to the Judges, competing for the chance to advance to the Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale. Seven Food & Drink Semi-Finalists had the opportunity to pitch their businesses in one-minute for their chance to win an industry prize and a spot in the finals.

Judges included Katelyn Lawson, Senior Relationship Manager at RBC; Divine Favour Nwagu, Manager, Risk Management at Mastercard; Steve Dominey, Senior Content & Communications Manager at CIRA; and Shannon Fisher, Global Partnership Director at EDC.

“I was surprised and delighted. I know I was in a cohort with incredibly talented entrepreneurs, so I’m honoured to have been selected as the winner in my category,” said Dana Swart, Owner of Trailhead Bread. “I’m especially excited about bringing more community events into the bakery. In the new year, I’ll be hosting cooking classes and teaching people in my community how to bake bread.”

Dana Swart, Owner of Trailhead Bread, is a Red Seal Baker and graduate of Baking and Pastry Arts who has spent years working in professional kitchens and sourdough bakeries. Based in Crowsnest Pass, Trailhead Bread specializes in handcrafted organic sourdough and celebration cakes, incorporating Alberta-grown flour, local ingredients, and regional flavours wherever possible. Dana is now taking the next step in the business by opening a dedicated bakery space and expanding Trailhead Bread into additional retail locations.

In her pitch, Dana shared that winning the $25,000 Grand Prize would help her grow Trailhead Bread while creating more opportunities to bring people together through food. She plans to hire additional help and host community events, while also exploring the opportunity to grow produce in the neighbouring garden for use in the bakery.

“I’ve learned to accept help and become more comfortable asking for it. It’s easy to feel like you need to do everything yourself when you’re building a business, but it’s incredibly hard to actually do everything alone. I’m so grateful for the friends and family who continue to show up and help me along the way” shared Dana Swart, Owner of Trailhead Bread.

The judges commended Dana for a confident and engaging pitch that clearly communicated both her passion for baking and her vision for Trailhead Bread. They were impressed by the growth she has already achieved, her focus on high-quality local ingredients, and the clear opportunity she sees to expand the business while continuing to serve her community.

“Congratulations to Dana Swart on advancing to the 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “Dana has taken her years of experience and love of baking and turned them into a business that feels deeply connected to the place she calls home. We are thrilled to see Dana take this next step and continue growing Trailhead Bread.”

Alongside selecting a winner, the judges also acknowledged the Runner Up for the Food & Drink industry category. Nastassia Hansen, Founder and Owner of Oak & Olive Charcuterie, was recognized for the experience, creativity, and attention to detail she has brought to building her Yellowknife-based business. The judges appreciated her polished presentation, strong understanding of her customers, and vision for continuing to grow Oak & Olive Charcuterie.

“We’re committed to playing a role in paving a path forward for Indigenous entrepreneurs, exemplified by our support of Pow Wow Pitch,” said Brittanee Laverdure, Director, Truth and Reconciliation Office, RBC Origins. “Pow Wow Pitch offers a holistic support system to power the next generation of Indigenous innovators across Turtle Island, including this year’s participants and semi-finalists.”

“The creativity, determination, and ambition demonstrated by this year’s Pow Wow Pitch entrepreneurs have been truly inspiring,” said Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs, Policy and Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard, Canada. “We’re proud to work alongside partners like Pow Wow Pitch by mentoring pitchers, representing Mastercard’s commitment to help remove barriers and open pathways to growth and economic opportunity. Congratulations to all the pitchers for sharing their business ideas, entrepreneurial journeys, and stories, and a special congratulations to Dana Swart for advancing to the next round.”

To watch Dana’s winning pitch, click here. To watch the Food & Drink Semi-Final episode, click here.

Dana Swart will now advance to the Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale to pitch for the Grand Prize of $25,000, which broadcasts online on October 21, 2026. Register to watch the 2026 Grand Finale at powwowpitch.org/register.

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On September 8th, Pow Wow Pitch, an Indigenous-led non-profit organization that hosts a Turtle Island wide Indigenous Business Pitch Competition for Indigenous entrepreneurs, presented in partnership with RBC and Mastercard, announced Destiny, the Rainy River First Nation Founder of FoodZen, a business based in Cambridge, ON, as the 2025 Pow Wow Pitch Food & Drink Semi-Final Winner. Destiny has won $1,000 and is advancing to the Grand Finale for a chance to win $25,000 to grow their business.

More than 130 Indigenous entrepreneurs from across Turtle Island (Canada and the United States) were selected as Semi-Finalists in this year’s Pow Wow Pitch. Each received training and mentorship to prepare for their semi-final pitch to the Judges, competing for the chance to advance to the Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale. Eleven Food & Drink Semi-Finalists had the opportunity to pitch their organizations and community initiatives in one-minute for their chance to win an industry prize and a spot in the finals.

Judges included Chad Garlow, Senior Manager of Indigenous Development Program at RBC; Aya Maoui, Director of Product Delivery at Mastercard; Carissa Sanchez, Investment Associate at Raven Indigenous Capital Partners; and Cassandra Sole, Account Manager at BDC. 

“When I found out, I was filled with gratitude and pride,” said Destiny Moser, Founder of FoodZen. “My first thought was of my mom. She never had the chance to heal from the trauma of the Sixties Scoop, but I know she would be proud to see me reconnecting with our food and helping others do the same. We’ve come a long way in reshaping what it truly means to eat whole, nourishing foods, and I’m grateful for the platform to continue educating and inspiring others. I want to thank my community, my team at FoodZen, and everyone who has supported us. And I’m especially thankful to Pow Wow Pitch for creating a space that not only celebrates Indigenous entrepreneurship but uplifts our stories and our voices.”

Destiny Moser, Founder of FoodZen, is an Indigenous chef and entrepreneur dedicated to revitalizing Indigenous food systems through a modern culinary lens. Drawing inspiration from her Rainy River First Nation heritage, Destiny emphasizes hyper-local, ultra-seasonal ingredients in her cooking, collaborating with local farmers and vendors who share her commitment to sustainability. Her offerings include personal chef services, pre-made meal deliveries, and educational workshops that promote food sovereignty and Indigenous culinary traditions.

In her pitch, Destiny shared plans to utilize the funds to invest in commercial kitchen equipment, expand educational and training programs, develop her own line of sauces and spices, and amplify her advocacy efforts. These initiatives aim to enhance FoodZen’s capacity to serve the community, promote Indigenous culinary practices, and foster a deeper connection to food sovereignty. By scaling operations and increasing outreach, Destiny seeks to inspire others to embrace Indigenous food systems and contribute to the restoration and protection of these vital traditions.

“The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that your story is your power,” shared Destiny. “For years, I tried to fit into a corporate box, but it wasn’t until I leaned into my own roots, grief, and healing that FoodZen found its purpose. To other Indigenous entrepreneurs, I’d remind them to not let the outside world define what success looks like. Build from your community, your teachings, and your lived experience. It’s not always easy, you’ll face barriers, stereotypes, and outdated systems, but staying true to your values creates resilience, trust, and long-term impact.”

The judges commended Destiny for a fantastic pitch that radiated passion and enthusiasm throughout. Her inspiring presentation left a strong impression of both her vision and her drive to make a meaningful impact in Indigenous food systems.

“Congratulations to Destiny on advancing to the 2025 Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “Destiny’s work with FoodZen embodies the heart of Indigenous entrepreneurship, honouring culture, community, and resilience. Her commitment to revitalizing Indigenous food systems through education and connection is inspiring. We are excited to see her continue to share her story, strengthen her community through the love of food, and expand the impact of her vision for food sovereignty.”

Alongside selecting a winner, the judges also acknowledged the Runner Up for the Food & Drink industry category. Erin Belch, Founder of The Belching Barista, was recognized for her fantastic pitch, strong presence, and enthusiastic energy throughout her presentation. The judges were impressed by the engaging content she shared and expressed excitement about the future of her business.

“Pow Wow Pitch is an incredible showcase of Indigenous changemakers who are making a meaningful impact through their passion, creativity, and determination,” said Chinyere Eni, Head of RBC Origins. “We are so inspired by all the participants and semi-finalists – their ingenuity and perseverance to bring their innovative ideas to life is truly commendable. At RBC, we are committed to supporting their entrepreneurial journey and celebrating their successes.”

“The talent and determination showcased by this year’s Pow Wow Pitch entrepreneurs have been nothing short of inspiring,” said Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs & Policy and Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard, Canada. “Our team at Mastercard works closely with partners like Pow Wow Pitch to break down barriers and create new opportunities for growth and economic prosperity across Canada. Congratulations to all the pitchers for sharing their ideas and stories, and a special congratulations to Destiny Moser for advancing to the next round.”

To watch Destiny’s winning pitch, click here. To watch the Food & Drink Semi-Final episode, click here.

Destiny will now advance to the Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale to pitch for the Grand Prize of $25,000, which broadcasts online on October 22, 2025. Register to watch the 2025 Grand Finale at powwowpitch.org/register.

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Erin Belch, Founder of The Belching Barista and a proud member of Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation, is bringing people together over a shared love of coffee. Based in Waterford, Ontario, Erin and her husband Tim started their coffee journey seven years ago when they roasted beans in their basement as a gift for their wedding guests. What began as a small idea quickly transformed into online sales and now has become a full storefront with a Tasting Bar and larger roaster. Their vision is rooted in bringing good people and good coffee together, while supporting sustainable farming practices and using green energy through Bullfrog Power.

Being part of the Pow Wow Pitch journey marks an exciting new chapter for Erin.  The Belching Barista plans to grow their business by purchasing a coffee trailer so they can attend events, festivals and pow wows, bringing freshly roasted coffee directly to community members. They also plan to host introductory roasting workshops for nearby First Nations communities, providing hands-on education and encouraging others to explore the world of ethical, high-quality coffee. For Erin, it is about more than selling a product; it is about educating and encouraging others to connect through intentional, meaningful experiences.

One of Erin’s biggest accomplishments has been opening the storefront and welcoming twins in the same year. Balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship has not been easy, but Erin credits her faith and the strong partnership she shares with Tim for getting through the long days and sleepless nights. Their dedication has been rewarded with overwhelming community support and a loyal customer base that returns for both the flavour and the feeling behind each cup.

Erin believes Pow Wow Pitch plays a vital role in supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs and creating pathways for long-term success and reconciliation. Working with her mentor, Stephen Nairne from Raven Indigenous Capital Partners, gave her the clarity and confidence to effectively tell her story in a way that reflects her purpose and values. “He was both encouraging and constructive,” Erin shares, “and I look forward to sharing a freshly roasted coffee with him as a thank you!”

For aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs, Erin offers this advice: forging your own path comes with challenges, but staying true to your values and believing in your product makes every early morning worthwhile. Entrepreneurship, for her, is not only about building a business; it is about building community.

Watch Erin as she pitches her business in the Food & Drink category airing on September 8, 2025 at 6:00 PM ET. Click here to see all episodes: powwowpitch.org/episodes.

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On September 11th, Pow Wow Pitch, an Indigenous-led non-profit organization that hosts a Turtle Island wide Indigenous Business Pitch Competition for Indigenous entrepreneurs, presented in partnership with RBC, Shopify and Mastercard Canada, announced Shyra Barberstock, the Kebaowek First Nation Co-Founder of Kebaonish Inc., a business based in Tyendinaga, Ontario as the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Food & Drink Semi-Final Winner. Shyra has won $1,000 and is advancing to the Grand Finale for a chance to win $25,000 to grow her business.

More than 300 Indigenous entrepreneurs from across Turtle Island (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 Grand Finale. From the 300 applicants, 100 were selected as Semi-Finalists and provided with training and mentorship to prepare for their semi-final pitch to the Judges.

Last night, eight Food & Drink Semi-Finalists had the opportunity to pitch their organizations and community initiatives in one-minute for their chance to win an industry prize and advance as a finalist.

Judges included Philippe Forest, Vice-President, Indigenous Markets at RBC; Crystal Hunt, Senior Manager at Shopify; Natalia Karpova, Associate Managing Consultant at Mastercard Canada; and Tara Saunders, Director of Business Development at Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada;

“Entrepreneurship is both exhilarating and challenging,” shared Shyra Barberstock, Co-Founder of Kebaonish Inc. “My experience with Kebaonish has been transformative, largely due to the support of my four co-founders, who are exceptional leaders in their respective fields. The key lesson I’ve learned is the immense value of teamwork. I don’t need to have all the answers; instead, I can leverage my strengths and rely on my co-founders to bring their expertise to the table. While working solo can yield a good business, collaborating with a strong team creates an exceptional one.”

Kebaonish Inc. is an Indigenous and woman-led coffee and tea company that highlights the spirit of sharing in Indigenous cultures and communities worldwide. Co-founded by Dr. Shyra Barberstock and Dr. Rye Barberstock, Kebaonish is blending together concepts from Anishinaabe and Kanienkehaka teachings to promote leading with a good mind and good heart into every day, and it all starts with a cup of coffee or tea. Kebaonish also collaborates with Indigenous artists and creatives to wrap their product in culturally rich and colourful designs, a thoughtful initiative to strive for economic reconciliation and opportunity for Indigenous artists.

Shyra pitched to win funds to invest in Kebaonish’s packaging and marketing materials to be in competition with other brands in the market. Shyra has a goal to be one of the main leaders in the coffee and tea industry, expanding their reach with Indigenous art at each step of the way. 

“Winning the semi-finals for the Food & Drink category at Pow Wow Pitch is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the Kebaonish story and brand to a broader audience,” expressed Shyra. “As a woman and Indigenous-led startup, advancing to the finals is incredibly exciting! I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my remarkable co-founders—Dr. Rye Barberstock, Barry Hillier, John Snell, and Mike Carrick. Your leadership and friendship have been invaluable. I also want to thank our families, friends, and colleagues for their unwavering support and encouragement. Your belief in us means the world!”

The judges congratulate Shyra for her clear presentation, business acumen, and strategic planning to uplift herself, team, and those around her. The judges applaud Shyra’s efforts and wish her the best in her journey.

“Congratulations Shyra on your Semi-Final win and for advancing to the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “Through Kebaonish, Shyra embodies the values of Indigenous entrepreneurship, blending traditional knowledge systems with innovation and passion in the food and drink industry. Her commitment to blending traditional values of the Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee, shines brightly in every cup of coffee and tea her business serves. We look forward to spotlighting Shyra and sharing more about Kebaonish with the Pow Wow Pitch community and growing our impact together.” 

Alongside selecting a winner, the judges also acknowledge the Runner Up for the Food & Drink industry category. Runner Up Bailie Stewart, Founder of Ts̓iwens Meat Co., was recognized for her clear vision and knowledge of her industry, the judges applaud Bailie’s passion and look forward to seeing her grow.

“Pow Wow Pitch is an incredible showcase of Indigenous trailblazers who are making a transformative impact on our communities with their resilience, ingenuity and unwavering commitment to success.” said Tracy Antoine, Senior Director of Indigenous Programs and Policies at RBC. “We’re so proud of all our participants and semi-finalists – their courage to participate leads to life achievements and their shared stories are truly inspirational. We are committed to supporting their growth and success in the future.” 

“Being involved in Pow Wow Pitch is not just an honour, it’s a privilege to witness the creativity and innovation of Indigenous entrepreneurs,” said Kyle Brennan Shàwinipinesì, Senior Lead for Indigenous Entrepreneurship 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!”

“The innovative thinking and solutions brought forward by all the Indigenous entrepreneurs involved in this year’s Pow Wow Pitch have been truly inspiring,” said Sasha Krstic, President of Mastercard Canada. “At Mastercard, we’re committed to working with partners like Pow Wow Pitch to unlock access to resources and opportunities for entrepreneurs across the diverse communities we serve to power economies and empower people. Congratulations to all the pitchers and congratulations to Shyra on advancing to the next round.”

To watch Shyra’s winning pitch, click here. To watch the Food & Drink Semi-Final episode, click here.

Shyra will now advance to the Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale to pitch for the Grand Prize of $25,000, which broadcasts online on October 23rd. Register to watch the 2024 Grand Finale at powwowpitch.org/register.

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On September 12, Pow Wow Pitch, North America’s premier pitch competition for Indigenous entrepreneurs, presented in partnership with RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard, announced two winners of the 2023 Food & Drink Semi-Final:

• Food & Drink Products Winner: Jacques T. Watso, the Abenaki Founder of Sagamité Watso from Odanak, Québec.
• Food & Drink Services Winner: Tina Archuleta, the Jamez Nation Founder of ITALITY PLANT BASED FOODS from Jemez Pueblo, New Mexico (USA).

Each entrepreneur 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 fourteen Indigenous entrepreneurs had the opportunity to pitch their businesses in one minute for their chance to win. 

Judges included Tracy Brooks, Relationship Manager, Commercial Financial Services at RBC; Kyle Brennan Shàwinipinesì, Build Native Program Manager at Shopify; Kyah Schumacher, Senior Managing Consultant at Mastercard; Jolene Johnson, Founder & CEO of Wabanaki Maple; and Pam Devonshire, Business Development Manager ecommerce and Parcels at Canada Post.

Food & Drink Products Spotlight:

“The main reason I am pitching for the second time is because Pow Wow Pitch is a contest like no other,” said Jacques T. Watso, founder of Sagamité Watso. “It is uplifting and inspiring. I just love to be a part of this great experience. Also, my traditional soup mixes are delicious and deserve to be known worldwide!”

Sagamité Watso produces the traditional Abenaki soup of Odanak in a revolutionary soup mix that ties together the ‘feeling of a traditional experience’ with ‘the ease of cooking.’ Founder, Jacques T. Watso, prides himself on his delicious soup mix and the ability to share his cultural food on a larger scale. Jacques shared his business motto during his pitch that his soup is “delicious, nutritious, and Indigenous!” Jacques pitched for a filling machine that will allow him to lower cost and manufacturing time so that he can scale to major grocers across Canada.

To watch Jacques T. Watso’s winning pitch, click here.

Cindy Convery, Founder of PureWild Co. was honoured as the Runner Up for the Food & Drink Products Semi-Final. In addition, the judges also provided an Honourable Mention to Michael John, Founder of Navajo Mike’s.

Food & Drink Services Spotlight:

“Pow Wow Pitch is a great organization and an awesome platform for Indigenous entrepreneurs,” said Tina Archuleta, Founder of ITALITY PLANT BASED FOODS. “I am working to take my business internationally and I decided to pitch to see how I’d compare with other Indigenous businesses across Turtle Ilsand. Plus, I would benefit from capital for my business to bring my products into Puebloan communities across my region.”

ITALITY PLANT BASED FOODS is the first-ever Indigenous and women-owned vegan restaurant and food service in the United States. Founder, Tina Archuleta takes great pride in being able to provide healthy, traditional foods to not only her community, but to all communities that span New Mexico. Tina shared in her pitch that she wishes to service the entire state of New Mexico with the help of a food truck to help her cover the rural areas of the state. 

To watch Tina Archuleta’s winning pitch, click here.

Christina Smith, Founder of Takeout In The Boonies was also honoured as the Runner Up of the Food & Drink Services Semi-Final.

“Congratulations to Jacques and Tina on their advancement to the 2023 Pow Wow Pitch Finals,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “It is so important to see Indigenous food products taking up space on store shelves and Indigenous-owned restaurants everywhere. These incredible entrepreneurs are taking up space and bringing incredible food to the world. We look forward to following and championing their success.”

“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 Food & Drink Semi-Final, click here.

Jacques and Tina will now 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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Cindy Convery, Founder of PureWild Co. based in Ojai, California, USA, is not just an entrepreneur but a symbol of vision and community commitment. Hailing from the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, where her mother’s formative years were marked by a house without running water and scarce access to healthy food, Cindy’s entrepreneurial drive is rooted in her desire to give back. “PureWild’s purpose is to create more healthy food access to underserved communities like the one where my mother grew up,” she shares.

At its core, PureWild Co. is an innovator in the wellness industry. The company produces a range of wellness products with marine collagen. This includes functional beverages, unique collagen-infused wines, and collagen supplements tailored to aid recovery from breast cancer and autoimmune disorders. “We use the cleanest collagen on the planet: certified non-GMO, Kosher, and Halal,” Convery proudly states. Notably, their supplements stand out as they’re specially formulated to support recovery from treatment side effects of diseases, making them a beacon of hope for many.

“I am most proud of formulating the first collagen supplements to support recovery from the side effects of treatments for breast cancer and autoimmune disorders,” Cindy reflects. Her personal connection to this cause, with seven friends and her mother having recovered from breast cancer, fueled her passion and drive. With a charitable arm donating supplements to those in need, PureWild Co. truly encapsulates the triple bottom line philosophy: People, Planet, Profit.

Being an entrepreneur is not without its challenges. For Cindy, “Raising money to start, and raising money to grow” has been the most formidable hurdle. Despite these challenges, her tenacity and unwavering spirit shine through. “Getting up every day with the same energy to succeed, and keep the end goal in mind,” is her mantra.

The Pow Wow Pitch has been a transformative experience for Cindy. Not only did it offer a platform to elevate her brand further, but the guidance from her mentor, Christos Markakis from RBC, proved invaluable. He honed her skills in delivering a concise, impactful pitch, emphasizing the unique strengths of PureWild Co.

What truly sets Cindy and PureWild Co. apart is their profound commitment to Indigenous values. These values, which prioritize the impact of one’s actions on future generations, are deeply embedded in the company’s operations. “For us, our sustainable practices, our charity component, and our choice of organic ingredients show respect to our customers, to our environment, and offer a product that supports people’s health and wellness,” Cindy elaborates.

Her advice for budding Indigenous entrepreneurs is grounded in her own experiences: “Find all the resources and use them.” She cites her initial funding, sourced through a loan from the Bureau of Indian Affairs, as a game-changer. This move not only provided her with financial backing but also opened several doors of opportunity, from participation in a White House symposium on Native Women Entrepreneurs to securing orders from local tribes.

“This has been a great experience, and I’m lucky to have been included. I hope I can continue to be involved in supporting Pow Wow Pitch,” Convery concludes; her journey is a testament to the power of community, perseverance, and a vision that seeks to uplift and inspire.

Register to watch Cindy pitch at the Food & Drink Semi-Final Online Watch Party on September 12, 2023, at 6 PM ET and vote for Cindy to win the 2023 People’s Choice Prize (#74) before September 17, 2023.

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