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This collaboration will support Indigenous entrepreneurs from across New Brunswick as they gather to pitch their businesses during the Sitansisk Powwow. Participants will have the opportunity to present their business ideas, connect with mentors, and compete for $9,500 in cash prizes.

JEDI will contribute to the experience through mentorship, judging, and support for entrepreneurs throughout the event. As an Indigenous organization focused on advancing economic participation in New Brunswick, JEDI continues to play a key role in supporting Indigenous business development across the province.

“At JEDI, we are committed to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs as they build and grow their businesses,” said Stanley Barnaby, CEO of JEDI. “Opportunities like Pow Wow Pitch create space for entrepreneurs to share their ideas, connect with others, and take meaningful steps forward. When entrepreneurs are supported in this way, it creates lasting ripple effects throughout their families and communities.”

“We’re grateful to continue working alongside JEDI,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “This fourth year of partnership reflects a shared commitment to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs in New Brunswick, ensuring opportunities are not just available, but accessible, meaningful, and rooted in community.”

Indigenous entrepreneurs participating in Sitansisk Pow Wow Pitch will also gain access to Pow Wow Pitch programming, including mentorship, resources, and opportunities to grow their businesses beyond the event.
Visit powwowpitch.org/sitansisk to learn more and pre-register to pitch.

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 JEDI

The Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) is an Indigenous organization dedicated to supporting Indigenous participation in New Brunswick's economy.  JEDI began in 1995 as a tripartite partnership between Indigenous communities in New Brunswick, the Government of Canada, and the Government of New Brunswick. In 2009, JEDI was incorporated as an independent, non-profit organization and over the years JEDI has grown into an Indigenous organization focused on working closely with its partners from Indigenous communities, organizations, government, and the private sector to foster Indigenous economic development in New Brunswick.

For more information, visit jedinb.ca.

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Pow Wow Pitch, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs, co-presented by Mastercard and RBC, proudly announces its partnership to host an Indigenous Business Pitch Competition at the Sitansisk Powwow, taking place in St. Mary’s First Nation, New Brunswick on June 19 & 20, 2026.

Sitansisk Powwow is a vibrant gathering that celebrates culture, community, and connection. This annual event brings together dancers, drummers, vendors, and visitors to honour traditions and showcase the strength and creativity of Indigenous communities in the region.

St. Mary’s First Nation will host Pow Wow Pitch as part of this year’s powwow, creating space to spotlight Indigenous vendors, entrepreneurs, artists, creators, and innovators. New Brunswick-based Indigenous entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to pitch their businesses for a chance to win $9,500 in cash prizes and gain valuable exposure.

The Sitansisk Pow Wow Pitch is presented locally by the Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI)  in partnership with Women in Business New Brunswick (WBNB). Their collaboration supports on-site mentoring, judging, and ongoing support for participants.

How It Works

To enter, New Brunswick-based Indigenous entrepreneurs can pre-register for limited spots here: powwowpitch.org/sitansisk, with a limited number of spots reserved for those who arrive on-site and want to pitch. Entrepreneurs will have 1 minute to present their ideas or businesses for a chance to win.

The top 10 pitchers will be paired with mentors to refine their final pitch before presenting to the judges. Prizes at Sitansisk include $5,000 for 1st place, $2,500 for 2nd place, $1,000 for 3rd place, $500 for the Youth prize, and $500 for the Fan Favourite. The 1st place winner will also receive a Golden Ticket to the 2026 Grand Finale for a chance to win the $25,000 Grand Prize.

“We’re proud to welcome Pow Wow Pitch to Sitansisk 26th Powwow and create space for Indigenous entrepreneurs to share their ideas and grow their businesses,” said Nicole Carty, Powwow Committee Coordinator for Sitansisk. “This opportunity brings together community, culture, and entrepreneurship in a meaningful way, and we’re excited to see participants share their stories.”

“We’re so honoured to be part of Sitansisk Powwow and celebrate the incredible Indigenous entrepreneurs in New Brunswick,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “These moments are about fun, connection, and possibility, they create space for entrepreneurs to be seen, supported, and celebrated. We’re excited to connect with participants and continue growing this vibrant entrepreneurial community together.”

Join us at Sitansisk Powwow and pitch your business for a chance to win cash prizes. This is your opportunity to share your story, connect with community, and take the next step in your business journey.

All Indigenous entrepreneurs who pitch will be welcomed into the Pow Wow Pitch community and gain access to a free Indigenous Startup Program, opportunities to be considered for the annual Pow Wow Pitch Box, and a free .CA domain courtesy of CIRA.

Visit powwowpitch.org/sitansisk to learn more and pre-register to pitch.

*This opportunity is open to Indigenous entrepreneurs in New Brunswick.

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Building on the success of their collaborations to build opportunities and support to Indigenous New Brunswick residents, Pow Wow Pitch, JEDI and WBNB are joining forces once again to spotlight a new First Nations community in New Brunswick. The impact of this partnership continues to celebrate and empower Indigenous entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed all throughout the province.

At this year’s Elsipogtog Powwow held in Elsipogtog First Nation, JEDI is proud to collaborate with Pow Wow Pitch by providing prizes and helping to connect Indigenous entrepreneurs with essential resources, including capital and mentorship. JEDI is a leading Indigenous organization dedicated to fostering Indigenous economic development in New Brunswick. Their team members will serve as judges and mentors at the Elsipogtog Pow Wow Pitch, further demonstrating their commitment to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurship.

“We are proud to be continuing our partnership with Pow Wow Pitch for a third year to uplift and celebrate Indigenous entrepreneurship across New Brunswick,” expressed Stanley Barnaby, CEO of JEDI. “At JEDI, we recognize the vital role Indigenous businesses play in driving economic growth while staying rooted in culture and community. It’s an honour to support and recognize these entrepreneurs as they lead the way forward.”

Echoing this impact, Women in Business New Brunswick will also be  joining forces to provide prizes, mentorship, and judges to local entrepreneurs. WBNB is a non-profit organization that empowers women entrepreneurs across the province by fostering confidence, leadership, and economic independence. Through culturally inclusive support and community-building, they help women overcome barriers, grow sustainable businesses, and become catalysts for change in their communities.

“Women in Business New Brunswick is proud to continue supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs through partnerships like this one,” said Nacole Charlie, Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs Development Officer at Women in Business New Brunswick. Initiatives such as Pow Wow Pitch offer meaningful platforms to amplify Indigenous voices, celebrate innovation, and foster culturally grounded economic development.”

Echoing this sentiment, Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, shared, “We absolutely love when partners like the Joint Economic Development Initiative and Women in Business New Brunswick come together to amplify our collective impact. By working in partnership, we’re creating space for Indigenous entrepreneurs to be seen, supported, and celebrated. We’re excited to deepen these relationships and continue strengthening the entrepreneurial spirit across New Brunswick.”

By working alongside Pow Wow Pitch, JEDI and WBNB are contributing to a growing movement that empowers and supports Indigenous entrepreneurship.

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 Joint Economic Development Initiative

The Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) is an Indigenous organization dedicated to supporting Indigenous participation in New Brunswick’s economy.  JEDI began in 1995 as a tripartite partnership between Indigenous communities in New Brunswick, the Government of Canada, and the Government of New Brunswick. In 2009, JEDI was incorporated as an independent, non-profit organization and over the years JEDI has grown into an Indigenous organization focused on working closely with its partners from Indigenous communities, organizations, government, and the private sector to foster Indigenous economic development in New Brunswick.

For more information, visit jedinb.ca

About Women in Business New Brunswick

Women in Business New Brunswick (WBNB) supports women entrepreneurs across the province with training, resources, and programming tailored to meet their unique needs. Through inclusive and community-driven initiatives, WBNB is committed to helping women — particularly those from underrepresented groups — start, grow, and lead successful businesses.

For more information, visit wbnb-fanb.ca/en. 

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Pow Wow Pitch, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs, co-presented by Mastercard and RBC, proudly announces its partnership with Elsipogtog Powwow, taking place in Mi'kmaq territory, Elsipogtog First Nation, New Brunswick on August 30, 2025.

The 39th Annual Elsipogtog Powwow is taking place August 29-31, 2025 along the beautiful Richibucto River. The traditional powwow is a local highlight of Mi’kmaq culture and celebration.

Elsipogtog First Nation is hosting Pow Wow Pitch for the first time ever to celebrate and shine a spotlight on Indigenous vendors, entrepreneurs, artists, entertainers, creators, and innovators. New Brunswick-based Indigenous entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to pitch to win $10,000 in cash prizes to take their ideas and businesses to the next level.

The Elsipogtog Pow Wow Pitch is co-presented locally with the Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) and Women In Business New Brunswick (WBNB), their partnership enables $10,000 in cash prizes and on-site mentoring, judging, and ongoing support for participants.

How It Works

To enter, New Brunswick-based Indigenous entrepreneurs can pre-register for limited spots here: powwowpitch.org/elsipogtog, with a few spots reserved on the lottery for those who just turn up and want to showcase their business. To pitch, entrepreneurs will have 1-minute to present their ideas or businesses for a chance to win! 

The top 10 pitchers will be paired with mentors to refine their final pitch before presenting to the judges and will also advance to the 2026 Turtle Island Semi-Finals. Prizes at Elsipogtog include $5,000 for 1st place, $2,500 for 2nd place, $1,000 for 3rd place, $500 for the Youth prize, and $500 for the Fan Favourite. The 1st place winner will also receive a Golden Ticket to the 2025 Turtle Island Grand Finale for a chance to win the $25,000 Grand Prize.

“We’re proud to team up with Pow Wow Pitch to bring this opportunity to Indigenous entrepreneurs in Mi’kmaq territory,” said Ann Purcell of the Elsipogtog Powwow Committee. “This partnership celebrates the innovation and determination of our people, creating space to share our stories, grow our businesses, and uplift our communities across New Brunswick and beyond.”

“We’re honoured to return to New Brunswick and to be welcomed for the first time by Elsipogtog First Nation,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “Our team is excited to celebrate the incredible entrepreneurial spirit in Mi’kmaq territory and to grow alongside communities like Elsipogtog. We’re grateful to the powwow committee and our local partners, JEDI and WBNB, for championing Indigenous innovation and vision.”

Join us at the Elsipogtog Powwow and pitch your business to win cash prizes of up to $5,000! This is your opportunity to showcase your talent, share your story, and inspire our community. Register now and be a part of the celebration!

All Indigenous entrepreneurs that pitch will be welcomed into the Pow Wow Pitch community and gain access to a free Indigenous Startup Program, have the opportunity to have their products and services be considered to be featured in the annual Pow Wow Pitch Box, and will receive a free .CA domain courtesy of CIRA.

Visit powwowpitch.org/elsipogtog to learn more and pre-register to pitch.

*This opportunity is exclusive for residents of New Brunswick.

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On July 27, 2024, Pow Wow Pitch, an Indigenous-led non-profit organization that empowers and supports Indigenous entrepreneurs with access to capital, mentorship, training and support, presented in partnership with RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard, and in collaboration with Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI), Wabanaki Maple, and Food & Beverage Atlantic, announced Amber Solomon, Founder of Immerse Collective, from the Bilijk First Nation as the 2024 Tobique Pow Wow Pitch Winner. The Indigenous-owned business has won $5,000 for their business and will advance to the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale where they will get the chance to win the grand prize of $25,000.

On Saturday, 15 Indigenous entrepreneurs pitched their businesses live at the Tobique Powwow in Neqotkuk First Nation (Tobique, New Brunswick), for their chance to win cash prizes to advance their businesses.

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, and Keely Thompson-Cook, Communications Coordinator of Pow Wow Pitch, co-hosted the action-packed program, where Indigenous entrepreneurs had the opportunity to pitch their business ideas and businesses in one minute for their chance to win prizes and support to make their dreams a reality.

Following a first-round open pitch on the morning of Saturday, July 27th, judges Holly Brown Bear, Economic Development Officer, JEDI; Jason McDonald, Business Development Manager, Futurpreneur; Natasha Martin-Mitchell, Chief Operating Officer, Martin-Mitchell Designs; Tammy Brideau, Executive Director, Food & Beverage Atlantic; Candice Perley, Owner, MC Metal Fabrication; and Siquin Bear, Owner, Party Bear Rentals, shortlisted the ‘Top 10’ entrepreneurs to advance to round two. 

The Top 10 were paired up with mentors from JEDI, Futurpreneur, Indigenous Tourism Association of New Brunswick, Party Bear Rentals, MC Metal Fabrication, Women in Business New Brunswick, and Martin-Mitchell Designs, to help them polish their presentations before they pitched one last time to judges Laura Englehart, Economic Development Manager, JEDI; Jolene Johnson, Founder & CEO, Wabanaki Maple; Tiffany Perley, Economic Development Officer, Tobique First Nation; and Jeanette Bear, Budget Control Officer, Tobique First Nation.

“Winning first place today is a major accomplishment for me,” said Amber Solomon, Founder of Immerse Collective and 1st Place Winner of Tobique Pow Wow Pitch. “Growing up I was always super shy so being able to come up here today to pitch my business and show how far I’ve grown with it in front of everyone has been amazing and I’m so grateful for all of the support.”

Immerse Collective is an extension of Amber's creativity and talent that sells custom graphics, embroidered apparel, and accessories. Amber is a multifaceted artist from beadwork, quillwork, basketry, digital design, and visual art. Immerse Collective was inspired to promote mental health awareness and now holds a variety of apparel. One of Amber’s most popular designs is her ‘You Are On Wolastoq’ product line to show pride in her territory and community. Amber shared in her pitch that she would like to purchase the equipment necessary to transform her production in-house to bring opportunities to her community. Amber shares her advice for Indigenous entrepreneurs, “find your passion and what you love, just dive in and the rest will come.”

The 2nd Place $2500 Prize Winner was Asha Bear, Founder of Bear Beadwork and soon-to-be Bear Productions. Asha pitched to extend her current business, Bear Beadwork, into film making under a new name, Bear Productions. Asha’s experience in working in film has inspired her to take new direction in telling Wolastoq stories and experiences of her people. “I am so honoured and happy to be able to pitch and win in my community,” shared Asha. “I am so glad that my community and the judges see something in me that maybe I don’t see in myself. My experience today was really positive, I felt really prepared and supported by everyone.”

The 3rd Place $1000 Prize Winners were Krista and Barry Nash, Founders of Nash Athletics, a family-owned athletic brand working to promote healthier lifestyles in Indigenous communities through programming, training, and nutrition. Nash Athletics also creates athletic wear and equipment with designs directly from Indigenous artists. Krista and Barry shared in their pitch that they would use the funds to expand their reach through marketing and development. “Our Pow Wow Pitch experience was absolutely amazing,” shared Krista. “We were just looking to connect and to get our name out there and to reach as many First Nations communities as possible. We recommend anyone to participate in Pow Wow Pitch because there is so much support, positive feedback, and they are a real motivator to keep it up!” 

The Fan Favourite $500 Prize Winners were Sara Saulis and Sheena Davenport, Founders of Straight Out Of Neqotkuk (Design Space), a crafts, accessories, and apparel based business. Sara and Sheena shared in their pitch that they would use the funds to purchase printing equipment to continue providing products for their community with hopes to expand to other communities as well. “This has been really exciting for me." started Sara Saulis. “I wasn’t expecting to do this when I came to the powwow but it has been a great opportunity and I’m glad to take part in it to share some of the hard work my friend and I have been doing.” Sheena Davenport continues, “as Sara said, we came here just to have fun and be a vendor, we didn’t expect to pitch anything, but it definitely has us thinking about where we can move forward with our business.”

The Youth $500 Prize Winners were May Martial and Dayna Dedam, Founders of May & Dayna’s Mechanic Shop, a startup and business idea to open their own automotive shop, inspired by May’s father. May and Dayna shared in their pitch that they want to go to school and get certification to begin taking their first steps. “This means alot to me because I grew up learning from my Dad who was a mechanic,” shared May. “It makes me want to move forward and to follow his path. I'm really excited that we got this opportunity.” Dayna continues, “We didn’t know what we were doing but we just signed up and gave it a try and I’m really glad that we did.”

The recipient of the 1-year membership to Food & Beverage Atlantic was Amy Pelletier, Founder of KWEYcuisine, an Indigenous food catering and take-out business and soon-to-be restaurant based on Madawaska Maliseet First Nation. KWEYcuisine is focused on providing food programming to elders and creating a space to connect with culture through food. Amy shared in her pitch that the funds will go into her ongoing plans to open her restaurant space and develop her food program. “What an awesome experience at the Neqotkuk (Tobique) 2024 Powwow,” shared Amy. “I was able to participate in the Pow Wow Pitch and won a 1 year free membership to Food and Beverage Atlantic. I am very grateful to have been chosen and can't wait to see what is in store for KWEYcuisne with the help of Food and Beverage Atlantic.”

“Congratulations Amber, Asha, Krista, Barry, Sheena, Sarah, May, Dayna, and Amy,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “You are shining examples of what can be accomplished with vision, dedication, and perseverance. You are already role models to aspiring entrepreneurs in your communities, demonstrating how to pursue dreams and make positive impacts. We are incredibly proud of each of you and look forward to following your journeys toward continued entrepreneurial success.”

"We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the winners of the Tobique Pow Wow Pitch Competition,” said Julien Moulton, Director of Tobique Powwow Committee, Tobique First Nation. “Your achievements not only exemplify entrepreneurial excellence but also symbolize the resilience and innovation within our community. Through initiatives like this, we're not just fostering economic opportunities; we're forging pathways towards lasting empowerment for Indigenous entrepreneurs in New Brunswick.”

All those who pitched are automatically entered into the Turtle Island (North American) Pow Wow Pitch competition and will be welcomed into the Pow Wow Pitch community for ongoing support. All pitchers have gained access to a free Indigenous Startup Program, the opportunity to have their products and services be considered to be featured in the annual Pow Wow Pitch Box and on Pow Wow Market for socially-conscious customers looking to ‘Buy Indigenous,’ and will receive a free .CA domain courtesy of CIRA, and a 60-day free Shopify Trial.

For media inquiries, please contact Pow Wow Pitch at hello@powwowpitch.org.

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The Tobique Pow Wow Pitch, organized by Pow Wow Pitch in partnership with JEDI (Joint Economic Development Initiative), aims to empower Indigenous entrepreneurs in New Brunswick by providing them with essential resources, mentorship, and opportunities for business growth. Wabanaki Maple's sponsorship reflects its dedication to fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem within Indigenous communities.

This year, Jolene Johnson, Founder and CEO of Wabanaki Maple, will be on-site at the Tobique Pow Wow Pitch as both a Judge and presenter of the Fan Favorite Prize. Her presence highlights Wabanaki Maple's dedication to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurship.

Jolene Johnson expressed her excitement about this partnership, stating, "As a former Pow Wow Pitch finalist and judge, and a client of JEDI, I am immensely proud to come full circle and support the next generation of Indigenous entrepreneurs. Wabanaki Maple's journey is deeply rooted in our cultural heritage, and we are honoured to contribute to the success of fellow Indigenous businesses."

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, emphasized the significance of Wabanaki Maple's support, saying, "We are deeply honoured to have the leadership and support of Wabanaki Maple. Their commitment to Indigenous entrepreneurship embodies the spirit of reciprocity and community upliftment that is at the heart of Pow Wow Pitch."

Wabanaki Maple's mission extends beyond business success to environmental stewardship and community empowerment. The company partners with non-profit organizations such as OneTreePlanted, Community Forests International, and Nashwaak Watershed Association to promote sustainability and protect natural resources.

For more information about Wabanaki Maple and its commitment to Indigenous entrepreneurship and environmental stewardship, visit wabanakimaple.com.

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Building on the success of their inaugural collaboration at the Nataoganeg Powwow last year, Pow Wow Pitch and JEDI have continued to strengthen their alliance, collaborating on impactful initiatives such as the Taste of the Atlantic Festival in 2023 and the New Brunswick Indigenous Tourism Summit earlier this year. This collaboration underscores a shared vision to uplift Indigenous entrepreneurs and connect them with opportunities for growth and success.

"We are always so happy to collaborate with Pow Wow Pitch to create opportunities that support and highlight the immense talent we have here in New Brunswick," expressed Stanley Barnaby, CEO of JEDI. "JEDI recognizes the immense potential of Indigenous businesses to drive economic growth while honoring our heritage. We are thrilled to extend our support to provide Indigenous entrepreneurs with prizes and recognition that celebrates their achievements with our entire community."

Echoing this sentiment, Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, remarked, "We are thrilled to grow our impact with the Joint Economic Development Initiative. We are eagerly anticipating our presence in New Brunswick and cannot wait to engage with all Indigenous entrepreneurs. It’s an opportunity for us to extend a warm welcome to them into the Pow Wow Pitch community and forge meaningful connections that foster growth and success."

In 2024, JEDI will sponsor Pow Wow Pitch at the Tobique Powwow on July 27th, providing prizes and connecting Indigenous entrepreneurs with crucial resources such as financing and mentorship. Additionally, JEDI will serve as a Round 1 Judge at the event and offer mentorship to the Top 10 pitchers, further demonstrating their commitment to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurship.

By investing in Pow Wow Pitch, JEDI aims to contribute to the creation of new opportunities for fellow Indigenous entrepreneurs and to scale their impact. This partnership exemplifies how Indigenous-led entities can support Indigenous entrepreneurship and work towards economic reconciliation in Canada.

As Pow Wow Pitch and JEDI continue to collaborate and grow together, they remain dedicated to empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs in New Brunswick and beyond, driving positive change and economic prosperity within Indigenous communities.

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 JEDI

The Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) is an Indigenous organization dedicated to supporting Indigenous participation in New Brunswick's economy.  JEDI began in 1995 as a tripartite partnership between Indigenous communities in New Brunswick, the Government of Canada, and the Government of New Brunswick. In 2009, JEDI was incorporated as an independent, non-profit organization and over the years JEDI has grown into an Indigenous organization focused on working closely with its partners from Indigenous communities, organizations, government, and the private sector to foster Indigenous economic development in New Brunswick.

For more information, visit jedinb.ca.

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Pow Wow Pitch, an Indigenous-led non-profit organization that empowers and supports Indigenous entrepreneurs with access to capital, mentorship, training and support, presented in partnership with RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard Canada, announced its new partnership with Tobique Powwow, and local partners Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) and Wabanki Maple, to put the spotlight on Indigenous entrepreneurs in Tobique First Nation, New Brunswick, on July 27, 2024.

The 20th Annual Tobique Powwow is taking place July 27-28, 2024 in the traditional Neqotuk Territory in Tobique First Nation, to celebrate and honour the community’s vibrant Indigenous culture through dancing and singing.

Tobique First Nation is hosting Pow Wow Pitch for the first time ever to celebrate and give prominence to Indigenous vendors, entrepreneurs, artists, entertainers, creators, and innovators of New Brunswick. Vendors and attendees will have the opportunity to pitch to win $10,000 in cash prizes to take their ideas and businesses to the next level.

The Tobique Pow Wow Pitch is co-presented locally with the Joint Economic Development Initiative and Wabanaki Maple, their partnership enables $10,000 in cash prizes and on-site mentoring, judging, and ongoing support for participants.

How It Works 

To enter, vendors, attendees and entrepreneurs can pre-register for limited audition spots here: powwowpitch.org/tobique, with a few spots reserved on the lottery for those who just turn up and want to pitch. To audition, entrepreneurs will have 1-minute to Pitch their ideas or businesses for a chance to win! 

The top 10 pitchers will be paired with mentors before pitching to the judges and the Tobique community. Prizes include $5,000 for 1st Place, $2,500 for 2nd Place, $1,000 for 3rd Place, $500 for the Youth Prize, and $500 for the Fan Favourite. In addition, the 1st Place Winner will also get a Golden Ticket to the Turtle Island Finale to pitch for the Grand Prize of $25,000. 

"We're thrilled to partner with Pow Wow Pitch and hold the first Tobique Pow Wow Pitch Competition, aimed at enhancing economic opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs in New Brunswick," said Julien Moulton, Band Councilor, Committee Lead for the Tobique Powwow. "This Indigenous Business Pitch competition offers New Brunswick's Indigenous entrepreneurs the chance to secure cash prizes for their start-up or existing ventures, as well as the opportunity to participate in the Turtle Island Pow Wow Pitch Competition for national exposure. These strategic partnerships, focused on bolstering Indigenous representation within New Brunswick's economy, pave the path towards genuine economic reconciliation."

“We are honoured to bring Pow Wow Pitch back to New Brunswick,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “We are so proud to continue growing our impact with First Nation communities in support of celebrating incredibly talented Indigenous entrepreneurs of New Brunswick. This is the first time we have been welcomed into Tobique First Nation, and we are so excited to meet the community members and to hear their business ideas! We are truly grateful to be welcomed by the powwow organizers and our local presenting partners, JEDI and Wabanaki Maple. Together, we’re championing Indigenous innovation and resilience.”

All Indigenous entrepreneurs that pitch will also be automatically entered into the Turtle Island (North American) Pow Wow Pitch competition and will be welcomed into the Pow Wow Pitch community. All pitchers will get access to a free Indigenous Startup Program, have the opportunity to have their products and services be considered to be featured in the annual Pow Wow Pitch Box and on Powwowmarket.ca, will receive a free .CA domain courtesy of CIRA, and a 60-day free Shopify Trial.

Visit powwowpitch.org/tobique to learn more and to pre-register to pitch.

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On Thursday, February 22, 2024, Pow Wow Pitch, an Indigenous-led non-profit organization that empowers and supports Indigenous entrepreneurs with access to capital, mentorship, training and support, presented in partnership with RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard, announced Chandra LeBlanc, Founder of Forage & Feast, from Natoaganeg First Nation as the first-ever NB Indigenous Tourism Summit Pow Wow Pitch Winner, in collaboration with Joint Economic Development Initiative  (JEDI) and Indigenous Tourism Association of New Brunswick (ITANB). The First Nation-owned business has won $1,000 for their business and will advance to the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Semi-Finals.

On Thursday, 21 Indigenous entrepreneurs pitched their businesses live at the NB Indigenous Tourism Summit in Fredericton, New Brunswick, for their chance to win cash prizes to advance their businesses. 

The NB Indigenous Tourism Summit is a two-day conference co-hosted by JEDI and ITANB, with headline speakers, including a keynote from the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada CEO, Keith Henry, presentations from New Brunswick tourism leaders, and informative workshops and tourism experiences.   

Pow Wow Pitch welcomed judges Stanley Barnaby, CEO of JEDI, Laura Englehart, Economic Development Manager of JEDI, and Karen Narvey, CEO of ITANB, to adjudicate and listen to the pitches of vendors and attendees.

Chandra LeBlanc is the Founder of Forest & Forage, an Indigenous tourism startup offering guided walking tours and culinary experiences centered around mushroom foraging and land knowledge. Chandra is a self-taught mushroom enthusiast and shared in her pitch that she plans to launch a diverse mushroom product line and secure partnerships to establish her tours.

“I think this is going to open a lot of doors for me,” shared Chandra. “I am very grateful for Pow Wow Pitch and the NB Indigenous Tourism Summit, it has taught me a lot and I’m very excited to see what the future brings!”

The Second-Place $800 Prize Winner was Stone Bear, Founder of Wolastoq Adventures, an illuminated kayaking experience offering new and innovative avenues to enjoy nature. Stone shared in his pitch that he wishes to expand Wolastoq Adventure’s marketing reach, purchase more kayaks, and acquire more staff members to their team. 

“It’s a privilege and an honour to place second with Pow Wow Pitch,” shared Stone. “We are really excited to help add to our business and grow our team. Thank you very much to Pow Wow Pitch, it was a lot of fun!” 

The Third-Place $600 winner was Ashley Sanipass, Founder of Mi’kmaq Art Experience, a hands-on art experience created to teach the traditional art styles and language of the Mi’kmaq people through workshops and art kits. Ashley pitched to win funds to develop her youth programming and to provide more materials and variety to her art kits.

“I am so excited to have won third place with Pow Wow Pitch,” shared Ashley. “It makes me feel really proud that people believe in me and my business.”

“Chandra, Stone, and Ashley, congratulations on your remarkable achievement as the winners of the first-ever NB Indigenous Tourism Summit Pow Wow Pitch,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “Your dedication to creating authentic and enriching experiences within your communities is truly commendable. We look forward to continuing collaborating with our partners in New Brunswick to support Indigenous entrepreneurship and achieving even greater milestones together into the future.”

"Congratulations to Chandra, Stone, and Ashley, on winning the NB Indigenous Tourism Summit Pow Wow Pitch,” said Karen Narvey, Executive Director of Indigenous Tourism New Brunswick. “Your unwavering dedication and innovative spirit shine brightly. Pow Wow Pitch stands as an incredible platform to highlight and provide indispensable resources and opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs to thrive in our dynamic tourism sector.”

“We are always so happy to collaborate with Pow Wow Pitch to create opportunities that support and highlight the immense talent we have here in New Brunswick,” said Laura Englehart, Economic Development Manager of JEDI. “Congratulations to the incredible winners of the NB Indigenous Tourism Summit Pow Wow Pitch, your initiative brightens our community and we are so excited to follow your journeys.”

All those who pitched are automatically entered into the Turtle Island (North American) Pow Wow Pitch competition and will be welcomed into the Pow Wow Pitch community for ongoing support. All pitchers have gained access to a free Indigenous Startup Program, the opportunity to have their products and services be considered to be featured in the annual Pow Wow Pitch Box and on Pow Wow Market for socially-conscious customers looking to ‘Buy Indigenous,’ and will receive a free .CA domain courtesy of CIRA, and a 60-day free Shopify Trial.

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