Indigenous tourism stands as a cornerstone for cultural preservation, economic sustainability, and community impact across Canada. Through this partnership, ITAC and Pow Wow Pitch reaffirm their commitment to nurturing Indigenous entrepreneurship, thereby safeguarding traditions, driving economic prosperity, and fostering community development.

This year, ITAC takes centre stage as the lead presenter of the Pow Wow Pitch Tourism Pitch, lending their expertise virtually as judges for the online Pitch Competition and in-person at live Pow Wow Pitch events. Furthermore, ITAC proudly sponsors the Tourism Award for the 2024 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, an accolade that recognizes excellence and innovation in Indigenous tourism endeavours.

In a commitment to hands-on support, ITAC will engage its employees as mentors, advisors, and judges, fostering growth and development for Indigenous entrepreneurs in both virtual and real-world settings.

Keith Henry, President and CEO of ITAC, emphasized the pivotal role of this partnership: “Our continued partnership with Pow Wow Pitch exemplifies our commitment to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurship and fostering growth within the tourism sector. Together, we are not only investing in businesses; we are investing in the future prosperity of Indigenous communities. ITAC’s vision for 2030 is for the Indigenous tourism industry to contribute $6 billion annually to Canada’s gross domestic product — making Canada the world leader in Indigenous tourism. To make that vision a reality, the Indigenous tourism industry needs to grow substantially in both the number of businesses and the number of industry employees.”

“The tourism sector is not only a vital economic engine; it’s also a means of cultural preservation and community empowerment. By supporting early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs, we are not just creating businesses; we are revitalizing traditions, empowering individuals, and shaping a more inclusive economy,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “Our strong partnership with ITAC signifies our shared dedication to fostering innovation and opportunity for Indigenous tourism entrepreneurs across Canada. Together, we demonstrate the power of collaboration in advancing Indigenous economic sovereignty.”

As both organizations align their efforts, they pave the way for meaningful progress in amplifying Indigenous-led businesses and promoting economic sustainability within Indigenous communities. 

For further information on the partnership and upcoming events, visit powwowpitch.org/ITAC

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 ITAC

The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) is a national non-profit Indigenous tourism industry organization established in 2015. ITAC is the lead organization tasked with growing and promoting the Indigenous tourism industry across the country. Inspired by a vision for a thriving Indigenous tourism economy sharing authentic, memorable and enriching experiences, ITAC develops relationships with groups and regions with similar mandates to enable collective support, product development, promotion and marketing of authentic Indigenous tourism businesses in a respectful protocol.

For more information, visit indigenoustourism.ca.

The post ITAC and Pow Wow Pitch Partner to Elevate Indigenous Tourism for 3rd Year 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 RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard Canada, and with the valued support of the Export Development Canada, Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, Sklar Wilton & Associates, and Raven Indigenous Capital Partners, 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. Applications and nominations will remain open until June 5, 2024, culminating in the announcement and celebration of winners during a digitally broadcast awards presentation on November 13, 2024.

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, expressed, “The Awards are a beacon of recognition for the entrepreneurial spirit and success within Indigenous communities. They provide a vital platform for celebrating resilience and reconciliation through the lens of entrepreneurship.”

Tracy Antoine, Senior Director of Indigenous Programs and Policies at RBC reiterated the importance of the Awards, stating, “The contribution of Indigenous entrepreneurs to our economy is immeasurable – their leadership inspires innovation, collaboration and plays a critical role in fostering stronger, more inclusive communities. Through our support for the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, we are proud to continue our efforts in recognizing the potential and talent of Indigenous innovators and celebrating their inspirational stories of entrepreneurship.”

Kyle Brennan Shàwinipinesì, Build Native Indigenous Entrepreneurship Program Manager at Shopify, emphasized the significance of celebrating Indigenous ingenuity and excellence, saying, “Through our partnership with Pow Wow Pitch and support of the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, Shopify proudly amplifies the exceptional contributions of Indigenous entrepreneurs. Their innovation and dedication exemplify the strength of ancestral wisdom and pave the way for sustainable prosperity.”

Sasha Krstic, President of Mastercard Canada, reinforced the importance of recognizing the successes of Indigenous entrepreneurs, saying, “by championing Indigenous entrepreneurs, we ensure their voices are heard and seen. Together, with Pow Wow Pitch, we are building a future where everyone can reach their full potential, contributing to a more prosperous and inclusive society.”

Todd Evans, National Lead for Indigenous Exporters at Export Development Canada, highlights that celebrating Indigenous people through the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards is a testament to “honoring the resilience, innovation, and cultural richness of Indigenous entrepreneurs. Together, we pave the path towards a future where Indigenous entrepreneurship not only thrives but leads.”

Keith Henry, President and CEO of the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC), expresses being honoured to support Pow Wow Pitch in uplifting Indigenous entrepreneurs through the Awards, stating, “our shared commitment to amplifying Indigenous Peoples and businesses making strides in the tourism industry fosters economic opportunities, while also preserving our cultural heritage for generations to come.  Moreover, ITAC’s vision is to help make Canada the global leader in Indigenous tourism by 2030. The importance of Indigenous tourism entrepreneurs are essential in helping meet this goal, as they contribute to growth in Indigenous-owned and operated tourism businesses, job growth and contributions to Canada’s GDP.”

Libier Gomez, Managing Director of Sklar Wilton & Associates, shares the importance of highlighting the achievements of Indigenous entrepreneurs, stating, “the positive impact of Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island shines bright and enriches our economy. Sklar Wilton & Associates is so proud to show our support in this year’s Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards by highlighting exceptional community leaders, paving the way for future generations.”

Althea Wishloff, General Partner of Raven Indigenous Capital Partners, reinforces the importance of recognizing Indigenous achievements within entrepreneurship, emphasizing, “The impact of Indigenous entrepreneurs resonates deeply within our communities, igniting economic resurgence and cultural vitality. Raven Indigenous Capital Partners, rooted in our commitment to empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs and fostering economic sustainability, proudly champions Indigenous excellence. We are dedicated to showcasing exemplary leaders who embody our values of credibility, accountability, and transparency, thereby inspiring future generations to thrive.” 

The Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards stand as a testament to the vitality of Indigenous entrepreneurship, serving to empower entrepreneurs and bolster the growth and prosperity of Indigenous businesses. To apply or nominate, please visit powwowpitch.org/awards.

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

The post Celebrate Indigenous Entrepreneurship: Applications Now Open for 2024 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

May 15, 2023 | Today, Pow Wow Pitch, North America’s premier pitch competition and non-profit organization supporting emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, announced a new partnership with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) as a Silver Partner for its 2023 Pow Wow Pitch Program. 

Set to support more than 2,500 Indigenous entrepreneurs in 2023 with mentorship, funding, training, marketing and a safe and trusted community of support, ITAC’s investment is helping Pow Wow Pitch to scale its virtual programs for creative and tourism entrepreneurs, re-enter communities with on-the-ground support across Canada.

Last year, ITAC supported a Virtual Creative Pitch, providing $2,500 grants, mentorship and training to nine creative Indigenous entrepreneurs from across Canada to commission mini-projects showcasing Indigenous-owned tourism businesses. The nine creative entrepreneurs moved on to pitch to win the Creative Prize Finals, a $15,000 grant for a larger commissioned Tourism project with ITAC. Mini-project recipient, Votan Henriquez, Founder of NSRGNTS placed 3rd in the Pow Wow Pitch Semi-Finals in the Creative category. 

“We need more Indigenous businesses in tourism, especially on reservations, to help tribes create their own tourism industry,” said Votan on his work with Thrive Tours in the mini-projects.

In addition, ITAC presented the Creative Award at the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards to Dan General, Founder & CEO of DJ Shub Inc. of Fort Erie, ON, providing the winner with a $10,000 Prize. 

This year, ITAC will be the lead-presenter of the Tourism Industry Pitch again and will also be contributing both virtual judges towards the virtual Pitch Competition and in-person judges attending live Pow Wow Pitch Competitions. 

“We are thrilled to welcome back ITAC into the Pow Wow Pitch family and to continue to help shine the spotlight and provide innovative support to Indigenous creative and tourism entrepreneurs and businesses across Canada,” said Sunshine Tenasco, the Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “The partnership is an example of what can happen when Indigenous-led organizations collaborate, co-create and build capacity in the Indigenous-led economy in our own way.”

“We are delighted to return as a Silver Partner for Pow Wow Pitch and to help uplift creative and tourism entrepreneurs and work with a grassroots community,” said Keith Henry, President and CEO of ITAC. “As we continue to work toward recovery for the Indigenous tourism industry, it is vital we celebrate and support Indigenous creators who make stories and businesses happen from coast to coast to coast.”

***

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. In addition, community leadership through volunteerism is promoted to reflect respect and reciprocity as the foundation of the Pow Wow Pitch. For more information, visit https://www.powwowpitch.org/.

About the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada 

The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) is a national non-profit Indigenous tourism industry organization established in 2015. ITAC is the lead organization tasked with growing and promoting the Indigenous tourism industry across the country. Inspired by a vision for a thriving Indigenous tourism economy sharing authentic, memorable and enriching experiences, ITAC develops relationships with groups and regions with similar mandates to enable collective support, product development, promotion and marketing of authentic Indigenous tourism businesses in a respectful protocol. Connect with ITAC on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. 

The post ITAC and Pow Wow Pitch Partner for Another Year to Uplift Creative and Tourism Entrepreneurs appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

Pow Wow Pitch and the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) are excited to announce the release of a new video series showcasing nine emerging Indigenous creative entrepreneurs who received $2,500 mini-grants to support Indigenous tourism businesses. This partnership between ITAC and Pow Wow Pitch is the first of its kind, highlighting the importance of Indigenous creativity in the growing tourism sector.

THE JOURNEY

In July 2022, nine creative entrepreneurs were selected from the semi-finalists of the 2022 Pow Wow Pitch competition and paired with nine Pow Wow Pitch tourism semi-finalists. From July to October 2022, the entrepreneurs supported the tourism businesses with various projects, including photography, logo design, promotional videos, animated ads, digital assets, and artistic creations connected to the land.

On November 3rd, ITAC awarded a $15,000 grant commission to the creative entrepreneur who impressed them the most with their mini-project. The winner was Eva Nicholas, Founder of Wabanaki Creations and Art, for her project entitled Oonamaki Roots in partnership with Under the Stump in Newfoundland & Labrador.

“I draw my inspiration from my love for my culture and my passion for sharing what is sacred,” said Eva Nicholas, 2022 Creative Pitch Winner, from We’koqmaq First Nation, Cape Bretton, Nova Scotia. “Creative professionals, artists and knowledge keepers are so important to the Indigenous tourism sector. Thank you for this opportunity for my business and to collaborate with another Indigenous entrepreneur to share my knowledge of the land and art.”

THE VIDEO SERIES 

As the summation of the pilot initiative, the launch of this 9-part video series is a celebration of the hard work and talent and an inspiring look at the potential of Indigenous tourism.

“We are proud to release this video series showcasing the hard work and creativity of these nine Indigenous creative entrepreneurs,” said Keith Henry, President and CEO of ITAC. “Their contributions have been invaluable in growing the Indigenous tourism sector, and we look forward to their continued impact. Thank you for your dedication and impact on the tourism businesses you supported.”

“Indigenous creative entrepreneurs have the power to transform industries, and this pilot program was a testament to the potential for collaboration and cooperation between Indigenous entrepreneurs,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “We are grateful to ITAC for trusting us with this important initiative, and we congratulate all of the creative and tourism entrepreneurs who participated with enthusiasm. You are each paving the way for others to follow.”

The nine-part video series showcasing the Mini-Projects can be found at powwowpitch.org/2022-creative-pitch.

The post Supporting Indigenous Tourism: Creatives Showcase Mini-Projects appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

Today, Pow Wow Pitch, North America’s premier pitch competition and non-profit organization supporting emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, announced a new partnership with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) as a Silver Partner for its 2022 Pow Wow Pitch Program. 

Set to support more than 2,500 Indigenous entrepreneurs in 2022 with mentorship, funding, training, marketing and a safe and trusted community of support, ITAC’s investment is helping Pow Wow Pitch to scale its virtual programs for creative and tourism entrepreneurs, re-enter communities with on-the-ground support across Canada.

ITAC will support a Virtual Creative Pitch, providing $2,500 grants, mentorship and training to ten creative Indigenous entrepreneurs from across Canada to commission mini-projects showcasing Indigenous-owned tourism businesses. The ten creative entrepreneurs will pitch to win the Creative Prize, a $15,000 grant for a larger commissioned Tourism project with ITAC, and to advance to the Pow Wow Pitch Finale for a chance to win the $25,000 Grand Prize. In addition, ITAC will present the Creative Award at the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, providing the winner with a $10,000 Prize. 

“We are thrilled to welcome ITAC into the Pow Wow Pitch family and join together to help shine the spotlight and provide innovative support to Indigenous creative and tourism entrepreneurs and businesses across Canada,” said Sunshine Tenasco, the Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “The partnership is an example of what can happen when Indigenous-led organizations collaborate, co-create and build capacity in the Indigenous-led economy in our own way.”

“We are so pleased to work with the Indigenous-led team at Pow Wow Pitch to provide important support to creative and tourism entrepreneurs,” said Keith Henry, President and CEO of ITAC. “As we begin our recovery for the Indigenous tourism industry, it is critical we include Indigenous creators to bring our vibrant Indigenous cultures to life from coast to coast to coast.”

***

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. In addition, community leadership through volunteerism is promoted to reflect respect and reciprocity as the foundation of the Pow Wow Pitch. For more information, visit https://www.powwowpitch.org/.

About the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada 

The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) is a national non-profit Indigenous tourism industry organization established in 2015. ITAC is the lead organization tasked with growing and promoting the Indigenous tourism industry across the country. Inspired by a vision for a thriving Indigenous tourism economy sharing authentic, memorable and enriching experiences, ITAC develops relationships with groups and regions with similar mandates to enable collective support, product development, promotion and marketing of authentic Indigenous tourism businesses in a respectful protocol. Connect with ITAC on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. 

The post ITAC and Pow Wow Pitch Partner to Boost Creative and Tourism Entrepreneurs appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.