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 in partnership with Sklar Wilton and Altis Recruitment, these awards stand as a testament to the innovation and cultural richness of Indigenous entrepreneurship.

Eligible applicants must be Indigenous entrepreneurs aged 18 or older who have been operating their business in Canada for at least three years. Nominations and applications will remain open until June 8, 2026, culminating in the announcement and celebration of recipients during a digitally broadcast awards presentation in November 2026.

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, shared, “As we celebrate another year of the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, we are excited to honour Indigenous entrepreneurs whose vision and dedication strengthen our communities and inspire the next generation. These Awards recognize the exceptional leadership and entrepreneurial spirit that set a standard of excellence across Indigenous business and drive our communities forward.”

Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs, Policy and Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard, Canada shared, “Supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs is about  sharing their stories and raising awareness of the actions needed to ensure they can succeed and thrive. Together with Pow Wow Pitch, we are proud to support opportunities that strengthen communities and shape a more inclusive and prosperous digital economy across Canada.”

Chinyere Eni, Head of RBC Origins, emphasized the significance of the 2026 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, stating: “Indigenous entrepreneurs play an important role in building Canada’s economy and fostering the growth of communities across the country. Their leadership and dedication continue to shape businesses that reflect culture, community, and long-term change for generations to come. We are proud to support the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards as part of our ongoing commitment to recognizing and celebrating the achievements of Indigenous business owners.”

Libier Gomez, Managing Director of Sklar Wilton, shares, “Indigenous entrepreneurs are redefining what leadership looks like by building businesses rooted in culture and community. Sklar Wilton is honoured to support the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards and celebrate the visionaries shaping more inclusive and thriving communities across Turtle Island.”

Kathryn Tremblay, Co-founder and Owner of Altis Recruitment, shared, “There is so much to celebrate in the work Indigenous entrepreneurs are doing across Canada. We look forward to recognizing business leaders whose success reflects commitment, creativity, and community leadership.”

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

For media inquiries or further information, please contact:

Destiny Maluga at destiny@powwowpitch.org

The post Celebrate Indigenous Excellence: Applications Now Open for 2026 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

Indigenous vendors, artists, and entrepreneurs from both Canada and the United States are encouraged to pitch their businesses and ideas, virtually or in-person at various powwows, for an opportunity to join the Pow Wow Pitch training and mentorship program, and to vie for cash prizes.

“As we enter the eleventh year of Pow Wow Pitch, our pitch program continues to be a vibrant space where Indigenous entrepreneurs can share their ideas, gain momentum, and turn vision into action,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder and Chair of Pow Wow Pitch. “The pitch competition celebrates the creativity, determination, and leadership of Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island, and the thriving businesses and communities they continue to build.”

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, added: “Every year, Indigenous entrepreneurs show up with business ideas rooted in who they are and the communities they come from, and a clear vision for where they’re headed. We’re honoured to welcome another year of bold thinkers and doers. At Pow Wow Pitch, we’re proud to create a platform that builds confidence, strengthens community support, and sets entrepreneurs up for long-term success. Community over competition, always. Together, we are paving a path for generations to come.” 

Here’s how it works:

Virtual Pitch: Entrepreneurs can submit a one-minute video pitch virtually between April 1 and June 1 at powwowpitch.org/pitch. Pow Wow Pitch will select the top 100+ Indigenous entrepreneurs as semi-finalists, providing them with mentorship and pitch training. Semi-finalists will then compete in virtual semi-finals for the opportunity to receive a $1,000 semi-finals cash award and a spot in the Grand Finale.

In-Person: This year’s Pow Wow Pitch Trail features three in-person Pow Wow Pitch events at powwows across Canada. At each stop, entrepreneurs can share their business or idea live, connect with mentors in a supportive and celebratory environment, and compete for cash prizes. The first place winner at each event will earn a golden ticket to the Grand Finale. Watch for updates and upcoming live pitch events on our website at powwowpitch.org/pitch. 

Grand Finale: On October 21, 2026, the top entrepreneurs from both virtual semi-finals and the first place winners from in-person events will pitch to a panel of judges at the Grand Finale for a chance to win the following top prizes: an Alumni Choice Prize of $5,000, 3rd Place Prize of $5,000, 2nd Place Prize of $10,000, and 1st Place Prize of $25,000.

All participating entrepreneurs will join a thriving community of Indigenous entrepreneurs, get a free pass to all 2026 Pow Wow Pitch learning opportunities, gain access to free training and support, and receive a free .CA domain from CIRA.

Last year’s Grand Prize winner, Kendal Garlow, co-founder of SproutSync Ltd., shares inspiring advice for emerging entrepreneurs: “When the going gets tough, the tough gets you going. As an Indigenous entrepreneur who still feels like I’m at the start of my journey, when things get hard, or you run into obstacles, keep going. There is a space for you, and if Indigenizing the business world is something you want to do, you can absolutely do it.”

Pow Wow Pitch gratefully acknowledges all of its partners for their unwavering support. Co-presenting partners, Mastercard and RBC have provided significant multi-year backing that empower Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island, fostering innovation, mentorship, and opportunity. Their commitment ensures that Indigenous entrepreneurs can turn bold ideas into thriving businesses.  

Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs, Policy and Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard, Canada, added, “Marking five years of partnership with Pow Wow Pitch, we’re honoured to continue supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs and contributing to resilient economic growth within Indigenous communities. This collaboration reflects Mastercard’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, digital economy that enables Indigenous entrepreneurs to thrive.”

Chinyere Eni, Head of RBC Origins, commented on the launch of this year’s Pow Wow Pitch programming: “At RBC, we value the role Indigenous entrepreneurs play in strengthening communities through business. We are proud to support Pow Wow Pitch as we aim to advance economic reconciliation and contribute to the prosperity of Indigenous entrepreneurs across different sectors.”

Pow Wow Pitch invites all Indigenous entrepreneurs to take part in this year’s competition and join a growing community of innovators, creators, and business leaders across Turtle Island. Whether pitching virtually or on the Pow Wow Pitch Trail, participants will gain mentorship, build confidence, and showcase their ideas to a national audience, all while celebrating their culture and the communities that inspire them. Don’t miss this opportunity to bring your vision to life, connect with fellow entrepreneurs, and compete for over $100,000 in cash prizes. 

Visit powwowpitch.org/pitch to learn more and submit your pitch.

–

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 Mastercard (NYSE: MA)

Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re building a resilient economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realize their greatest potential.

For more information, visit www.mastercard.ca

For media inquiries, please contract:

Helena Wade, Manager, Communications, Mastercard| helena.wade@mastercard.com

About RBC

Royal Bank of Canada is a global financial institution with a purpose-driven, principles-led approach to delivering leading performance. Our success comes from the 101,000+ employees who leverage their imaginations and insights to bring our vision, values and strategy to life so we can help our clients thrive and communities prosper. As Canada’s biggest bank and one of the largest in the world, based on market capitalization, we have a diversified business model with a focus on innovation and providing exceptional experiences to our more than 19 million clients in Canada, the U.S. and 27 other countries. Learn more at rbc.com.‎

We are proud to support a broad range of community initiatives through donations, community investments and employee volunteer activities. See how at rbc.com/peopleandplanet.

The post Calling All Indigenous Entrepreneurs: Pow Wow Pitch Announces $100,000 Cash Prize Competition for 2026 appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

“Advancing Indigenous entrepreneurship and economic development aligns with our commitment to fostering an inclusive digital economy across Canada, and we are proud to continue our partnership with Pow Wow Pitch” said Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs, Policy and Stakeholder Engagement. “By supporting Indigenous-led businesses, we are helping drive innovation, create opportunity, and build a more resilient Canadian economy for everyone.”

Mastercard first joined Pow Wow Pitch as a co-presenting partner in 2022. Since then, Mastercard’s involvement has been instrumental in supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs to navigate the challenges of launching, growing and scaling their businesses.

Through this partnership, Mastercard actively contributes to Pow Wow Pitch in multiple ways. Team members across software, engineering, data science, marketing, management consulting, and government affairs serve as virtual mentors and judges, sharing their expertise with Indigenous entrepreneurs and supporting skill building through Indigenous Entrepreneur Bootcamps.

“We are grateful for Mastercard’s continued partnership with Pow Wow Pitch as we enter our fifth year,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “Together, we’ve grown and strengthened our ability to support Indigenous entrepreneurs and their communities. I am excited to see how our collaboration will continue to deepen as we work together to foster opportunity, build skills, and create lasting economic opportunities within Indigenous communities. With shared vision, aligned values, and a commitment to collective growth, this partnership shows how collaboration and shared leadership can benefit communities for generations to come.”

Mastercard’s commitment to Pow Wow Pitch extends well beyond mentorship and funding. Through programs like Mastercard Changeworks™, the company provides access to networks, capacity-building resources, and digital tools, helping Indigenous entrepreneurs thrive. In addition, Mastercard will present two awards at the 2026 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, recognizing and celebrating the achievements of Indigenous business leaders.

Mastercard’s partnership with Pow Wow Pitch empowers Indigenous entrepreneurs and strengthens their communities. By creating opportunities, supporting their entrepreneurial journeys, and uplifting Indigenous peoples, this partnership helps foster self-determined, lasting economic prosperity across Indigenous communities.

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 Mastercard (NYSE: MA)

Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re building a resilient economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realize their greatest potential.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Helena Wade, Manager, Communications
Mastercard 
helena.wade@mastercard.com

The post Mastercard’s Co-Presenting partnership elevates Indigenous entrepreneurship at Pow Wow Pitch appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

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

The post Celebrate Indigenous Entrepreneurship: Applications Now Open for 2025 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

Indigenous vendors, artists, and entrepreneurs from both Canada and the United States are encouraged to pitch their businesses and ideas, virtually or in-person at various powwows and Indigenous festivals, for an opportunity to join the Pow Wow Pitch training and mentorship program, and to vie for cash prizes.

“As we celebrate a decade of empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs, Pow Wow Pitch continues to be a beacon of innovation, resilience, and community,” shared Sunshine Tenasco, Founder and Chair of Pow Wow Pitch. “This milestone is a testament to the incredible talent and vision of Indigenous business leaders across Turtle Island.”

Reflecting on the past 10 years, Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, remarked, “Building on this momentum, Pow Wow Pitch continues to be a powerful platform where Indigenous entrepreneurs uplift one another, embrace their entrepreneurial spirit, and create lasting impact in their communities. As we celebrate this milestone, we honour the resilience and achievements of Indigenous entrepreneurs and embrace the next decade with a renewed commitment to inspiring and empowering the next generation of Indigenous changemakers.”

Here’s how it works:

Virtual Pitch: Entrepreneurs can submit a one-minute video pitch virtually between April 1 and June 3 at powwowpitch.org/pitch. Pow Wow Pitch will select the top 100 Indigenous entrepreneurs as semi-finalists, providing them with mentorship and pitch training. Semi-finalists will compete in virtual semi-finals for a chance to win a cash tip of $1000 and advance to the finals.

In-Person: Pow Wow Pitch will also host live pitch events at Manito Ahbee Festival on May 17, 2025, in Winnipeg, Manitoba; Kamloopa Powwow on June 28, 2025 in Kamloops, British Columbia; and two additional in-person events will be added to the Pow Wow Pitch Trail. Entrepreneurs can pitch their business or idea live for a chance to win cash prizes and receive a golden ticket to the finals.

The Finals: On October 22, 2025, the top entrepreneurs from both virtual semi-finals and the first place winners from in-person events will pitch to a panel of judges at the Grand Finale for a chance to win the following top prizes: an Alumni Choice Prize of $5,000, 3rd Place Prize of $5,000, 2nd Place Prize of $10,000, and 1st Place Prize of $25,000.

All participating entrepreneurs will join a thriving community of Indigenous entrepreneurs, get a free pass to all 2025 Pow Wow Pitch learning opportunities, gain access to free training and support, and receive a free .CA domain from CIRA.

Last year’s Grand Prize winner, Shyra Barberstock, Co-founder of Kebaonish Inc., shares inspiring advice for emerging entrepreneurs: “Stay true to your values and your community. Remember, your unique perspective as an Indigenous entrepreneur is your strength—use it to innovate and create positive change.”

Pow Wow Pitch sincerely thanks its partners for their unwavering support. As co-presenting partners, Mastercard and RBC have provided substantial multi-year backing, helping to empower Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island.

Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs & Policy and Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard, Canada, added, “We’re proud to renew our partnership with Pow Wow Pitch for the fourth year in a row. Empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs and fostering economic development within Indigenous communities aligns with our mission at Mastercard to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone across Canada.”

Chinyere Eni, Head of RBC Origins commented on the launch of this year’s Pow Wow Pitch programming: “At RBC, we recognize the creativity and resilience of Indigenous entrepreneurs who are shaping the future with their bold ideas and community-driven vision. We are proud to support this year’s Pow Wow Pitch and look forward to empowering this year’s participants as they share their stories and take their businesses to new heights.”

Pow Wow Pitch is also supported by Silver Partners,  Sklar Wilton and Associates and Altis Recruitment; Seed Partners, Export Development Canada, NACCA, Jelly Academy, Aritzia, CIRA, Best Buy Canada, Futurpreneur, Business Development Bank of Canada; and Community Partners, Raven Indigenous Capital Partners, MINI TIPI, Joint Economic Development Initiative, CFDC of CIFN, and ANTCO.

Indigenous entrepreneurs are encouraged to pitch their businesses or ideas and join the Pow Wow Pitch community. To learn more about the 2025 Pow Wow Pitch competition, visit powwowpitch.org/pitch.

–

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 Mastercard (NYSE: MA)

Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re building a sustainable economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help.

For more information, visit www.mastercard.ca

About RBC Indigenous Financial Services Group

Royal Bank of Canada is a global financial institution with a purpose-driven, principles-led approach to delivering leading performance. Our success comes from the 98,000+ employees who leverage their imaginations and insights to bring our vision, values and strategy to life so we can help our clients thrive and communities prosper. As Canada’s biggest bank and one of the largest in the world, based on market capitalization, we have a diversified business model with a focus on innovation and providing exceptional experiences to our more than 18 million clients in Canada, the U.S. and 27 other countries. Learn more at rbc.com.

We are proud to support a broad range of community initiatives through donations, community investments and employee volunteer activities. See how at rbc.com/peopleandplanet.

The post Calling All Indigenous Entrepreneurs: Pow Wow Pitch Announces 2025 $100,000 Cash Prize Competition appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

Set to empower more than 300 Indigenous entrepreneurs in 2025 with mentorship, funding, training, and a safe and trusted community of support, BDC’s investment is helping Pow Wow Pitch to scale its virtual programs, engage with communities at powwows, and enhance its programming to help Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island.

In addition to engaging BDC employees as trusted mentors and judges for the Pow Wow Pitch Program, BDC is supporting the Indigenous Startup Program by developing an online module to expand digital resources and further empower Indigenous entrepreneurs.

“BDC has been a long-time supporter of Pow Wow Pitch, and we are proud to welcome them back to our community,” shared Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “This partnership is rooted in our shared commitment to uplifting Indigenous entrepreneurs by providing the support, resources, and guidance they need to realize their business goals.”

“Indigenous peoples are starting businesses at an unprecedented rate. Their passion and creativity are boundless, and BDC is here to help them launch or expand their business,” said Fatiha Senhaji, Vice-President Inclusive Entrepreneurship at BDC. “Through our new partnership with Pow Wow Pitch, we are deepening our commitment to providing Indigenous entrepreneurs with the support, resources, and guidance they need to succeed.

Guided by Wade Kerr, Manager of Indigenous Entrepreneurship, and supported by a dedicated team of regional Senior Advisors, we proudly collaborate with Pow Wow Pitch to advocate for Indigenous-led businesses across the nation. Our goal is to enhance economic outcomes for Indigenous peoples and promote sustainable economic growth within their communities.”

As the bank for Canadian entrepreneurs and as a partner of Pow Wow Pitch, BDC is strengthening its commitment to empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs and supporting their journey toward business success. This collaboration highlights the vital role corporate organizations play in fostering Indigenous entrepreneurship and advancing economic reconciliation across Canada.

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 BDC: 80 years as Canada’s bank for entrepreneurs  

BDC is a partner of choice for all entrepreneurs looking to access the financing and advice they need to build their businesses and tackle the big challenges of our time. Our investment arm, BDC Capital, offers a wide range of risk capital solutions to help grow the most innovative firms. BDC’s development role means we are in a state of perpetual evolution – wherever entrepreneurs go and whatever the Canadian economy needs – we will be there to help them defy the odds. 80 years later, that commitment remains very much alive. The financial value of BDC’s services is estimated to add $23.6 billion in GDP to Canada’s economy over the next five years. We are one of Canada’s Top 100 Employers and Canada’s Best Diversity Employers and the first financial institution in Canada to receive the B Corp certification in 2013. For more information on our products and services and to consult free tools, templates and articles, visit bdc.ca or join BDC on social media.  

The post Pow Wow Pitch and BDC partner to champion Indigenous business success appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

“Empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs and fostering economic development within Indigenous communities aligns with our mission to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone across Canada,” said Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs & Policy and Stakeholder Engagement. “We are proud to renew our partnership with Pow Wow Pitch by continuing to collaborate and support Indigenous entrepreneurship.” 

Mastercard first partnered with Pow Wow Pitch as a co-presenting sponsor in 2022, marking their support to Indigenous entrepreneurship. Since then, Mastercard’s support has played a crucial role in supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs as they tackle the challenges of launching and growing their businesses.

Through this partnership, Mastercard actively supports Pow Wow Pitch in various capacities. Mastercard team members, including software, engineers, data scientists, marketers, management consultants, and government affairs experts, serve as virtual mentors and judges and share their knowledge and expertise with Indigenous entrepreneurs. Additionally, Jennifer M. Sloan enhances the partnership by serving on the Pow Wow Pitch Advisory Council.

“Our growing partnership with Mastercard is invaluable and deeply impactful,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “We cherish when sponsors evolve into true partners, and Mastercard has embodied this for Pow Wow Pitch. Together, we have grown, and I am excited to see how our collaboration will continue to deepen as we drive our mission forward and build capacity within Indigenous communities. With a shared vision, aligned values, and a steadfast commitment to empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs, this partnership exemplifies the power of collaboration and shared leadership as we work together to foster economic empowerment for generations to come.”

Mastercard’s continued support of Pow Wow Pitch extends beyond mentorship and financial support. Through initiatives like Mastercard Changeworks™, the company provides crucial support for technology, digital adoption, and cybersecurity training to the organization. Additionally, Mastercard will present two awards at the 2025 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, further enhancing the ecosystem by celebrating Indigenous entrepreneurship.

Through its support of Pow Wow Pitch and investment in its long-term success, Mastercard is helping power the Canadian economy and empower people across Canada by supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs. This partnership stands as a powerful example of how corporate organizations can support Indigenous entrepreneurship to level the economic playing field and drive Canada’s future prosperity.

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 Mastercard (NYSE: MA)

Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re building a sustainable economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help 

For media inquiries, please contact:
Helena Wade, Manager, Communications
Mastercard 
helena.wade@mastercard.com

The post Mastercard renews partnership with Pow Wow Pitch to continue empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

“Empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs and fostering economic development within Indigenous communities aligns with our mission at Mastercard of building an inclusive digital economy that benefits everyone,” said Sasha Krstic, President of Mastercard Canada. “We are proud to continue our journey with Pow Wow Pitch by extending our partnership and supporting Indigenous entrepreneurship.” 

In 2022, Mastercard Canada joined Pow Wow Pitch as a co-presenting sponsor for the first time, marking a significant milestone in their partnership. The support provided by Mastercard Canada has been instrumental in empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs, enabling them to overcome the challenges of starting and scaling their businesses.

As part of this partnership, Mastercard Canada engages with Pow Wow Pitch in various capacities. More than a dozen members of the Mastercard team serve as virtual mentors and judges, offering valuable insights and expertise to Indigenous entrepreneurs. Jennifer M. Sloan, Senior Vice President of Public Policy and Stakeholder Engagement at Mastercard Canada also serves on the Pow Wow Pitch Advisory Council, further strengthening the collaboration.

“I cannot overstate the significance of our partnership with Mastercard,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “It is more than just a collaboration; it’s an enabler of our mission, a strategic alliance that propels us forward and a support for capacity building within Indigenous communities. Together, we are aligned in our vision, values and commitment to empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs. This partnership exemplifies what true leadership looks like: working hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder, toward a common goal of fostering economic empowerment and prosperity.”

Mastercard Canada’s commitment to supporting Pow Wow Pitch extends beyond mentorship and financial support. Through initiatives like Mastercard Changeworks™, they provide crucial support for digital adoption, cybersecurity training and technology donations. Additionally, Mastercard supports Pow Wow Pitch’s Alumni network, Alumni Program, Powwowmarket.ca and annually presents two awards at the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, further enhancing the ecosystem for Indigenous entrepreneurship.

By supporting Pow Wow Pitch and investing in its long-term success, Mastercard Canada is contributing to the creation of a more equitable and prosperous future for Indigenous communities. This partnership serves as a model for how corporate entities can support Indigenous entrepreneurship and work toward economic reconciliation in Canada.

About Pow Wow Pitch

Pow Wow Pitch is an entrepreneurship program for emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, which provides a safe, supportive, collaborative, empowering and culturally supportive environment that addresses the unique challenges of Indigenous entrepreneurs and aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs. Pow Wow Pitch enhances, develops and accelerates the growth for current and aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs in a sustainable way through programs and resources. Community leadership through volunteerism is promoted as a reflection of respect and reciprocity as the foundation of the Pow Wow Pitch.

For more information, visit powwowpitch.org.

About Mastercard (NYSE: MA)

Mastercard is a global technology company in the payments industry. Our mission is to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere by making transactions safe, simple, smart and accessible. Using secure data and networks, partnerships and passion, our innovations and solutions help individuals, financial institutions, governments and businesses realize their greatest potential. Our decency quotient, or DQ, drives our culture and everything we do inside and outside of our company. With connections across more than 210 countries and territories, we are building a sustainable world that unlocks priceless possibilities for all.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Helena Wade, Manager, Communications
Mastercard 
helena.wade@mastercard.com

The post Mastercard Expands Partnership with Pow Wow Pitch to Reinforce Commitment to Empowering Indigenous Entrepreneurs appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.