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

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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.

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Best Buy Canada will once again support the Youth category during the Pow Wow Pitch Semi Finals, offering mentorship to Indigenous youth under 21 as they refine their business ideas and strengthen their pitches. Best Buy Canada representatives will also participate in the adjudication process, helping select the recipient of the 1,000 dollar Youth Prize, who will advance to compete at the Grand Finale.

Through the Tech 4 Youth program, Indigenous youth entrepreneurs from across Canada can submit a Request for Tech outlining the equipment they need to support their business operations. Together, Pow Wow Pitch and Best Buy Canada will review applications and provide selected recipients with the technology required to enhance their digital presence, streamline operations, and accelerate growth. The 2026 Tech 4 Youth program will launch this spring.

Over the past several years, the Tech 4 Youth program has placed critical technology in the hands of young Indigenous entrepreneurs, helping them overcome digital barriers and build confidence in their entrepreneurial journeys. From laptops and creative tools to essential business equipment, the program continues to ensure youth have practical support as they take their next steps.

In addition to technology access, Best Buy Canada will continue amplifying youth voices by providing gift cards to Tech 4 Youth recipients who share how their equipment will advance their business goals. These stories highlight the determination and creativity of Indigenous youth entrepreneurs and inspire others to pursue their own ventures.

“We are proud to continue our partnership with Pow Wow Pitch and support Indigenous youth entrepreneurs as they develop their ideas and leadership skills,” said Karen Arsenault, Head of Social Impact at Best Buy Canada. “Our employees value the opportunity to mentor these young founders and contribute to their growth.”

“Youth carry forward the vision and strength of our communities,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “By investing in their ideas today and ensuring they have access to the right tools and guidance, we are supporting not only individual businesses but the future of Indigenous entrepreneurship.”

Through this continued partnership, Best Buy Canada and Pow Wow Pitch remain committed to ensuring Indigenous youth have meaningful access to technology, mentorship, and opportunities that help transform their ideas into sustainable businesses.

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 Best Buy Canada

A wholly owned subsidiary of Best Buy Co., Inc. (NYSE:BBY), Best Buy Canada Ltd. is one of Canada’s largest and most innovative omnichannel retailers, operating the Best Buy, Best Buy Mobile, and Geek Squad ( www.geeksquad.ca ) brands. With over 160 Best Buy and Best Buy Mobile stores across Canada and an expanded assortment of lifestyle products offered through BestBuy.ca, Best Buy is a leader in total retail, catering to customers how, when, and where they want to shop. Best Buy Canada is committed to making a positive impact in the community with programs and partnerships that support youth to connect with technology to advance their education.

For more information, visit bestbuy.ca.

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Pow Wow Pitch, a non profit organization dedicated to supporting and uplifting Indigenous entrepreneurs, announced the selection of ‘Cornhusk Dolls’ created by Alanah Jewell as the Official Art of the 2026 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards.

About ‘Cornhusk Dolls’

The illustration ‘Cornhusk Dolls’ reflects a personal and cultural journey for the artist. Inspired by the traditional corn husk dolls that Alanah grew up seeing, the piece represents the moment when learning the teachings and creating one herself brought a deeper connection to her culture and community.

The artwork speaks to the role that cultural knowledge plays in creation. When teachings, protocols, and ways of life are carried into creative work, each piece becomes an extension of culture and identity.

“Let our way of life guide your practice. When you embed cultural teachings, protocol, and beliefs into your work, your creations become an extension of your culture, reflective of the love, care, time, and effort you put into it,” shared Alanah Jewell.

Through this work, the artist reflects on the shared experience many Indigenous entrepreneurs carry in their journeys. Building something meaningful often begins with a moment of cultural connection that opens the door to creativity and purpose.

Indigenous entrepreneurs understand the responsibility of carrying generations of stories, teachings, and ways of life through their work. For many, their path can be traced back to a moment when culture became a guide for what they create and how they move forward.

About Alanah Jewell

Alanah Jewell, also known as Alanah Astehtsi̲’ Otsistóhkwaˀ (Morningstar) Jewell, is a contemporary artist from the Bear Clan of the Oneida Nation of the Thames. She grew up off reserve and currently lives in Kitchener, Ontario.

Alanah works across multiple mediums including illustration, painting, and mural work. Her creative practice is deeply inspired by her relationship to the land and by the teachings that guide Indigenous cultural expression.

Her work blends contemporary illustration with cultural storytelling, often reflecting the connections between people, land, and tradition.

About the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards

The Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards celebrate excellence and achievement in Indigenous entrepreneurship. The 2026 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards are co-presented by Mastercard and RBC, and in partnership with Sklar Wilton and Altis Recruitment.

Indigenous entrepreneurs and Indigenous-owned businesses across Canada can apply or nominate others who demonstrate perseverance, growth, leadership, and strong examples of Indigenous business success.

Nominations and applications for the 2026 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards open April 7, 2026.

For more information, visit powwowpitch.org/awards.

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CIRA, the nonprofit organization behind Canada’s trusted internet infrastructure, continues its involvement with Pow Wow Pitch. As Canada’s official .CA registry, CIRA provides Pow Wow Pitch participants with access to complimentary .CA domains for their businesses, supported by their partner, Web Hosting Canada. This partnership supports Indigenous entrepreneurs in establishing and strengthening their online presence.

In 2026, CIRA and Pow Wow Pitch will continue collaborating on spotlight stories featuring Indigenous entrepreneurs who have participated in Pow Wow Pitch programming and launched or expanded their businesses using a .CA domain. These stories highlight real examples of digital growth and visibility across Turtle Island.

CIRA employees will also remain engaged as mentors and judges for Pow Wow Pitch entrepreneurs, contributing their expertise in digital strategy and brand development.

Spencer Callaghan, Director of Brand and Communications at CIRA, shared, “Supporting Indigenous businesses and communities is essential to building a strong and diversified economic future in Canada. As a longtime partner of Pow Wow Pitch, CIRA has seen firsthand the creativity, innovation and leadership Indigenous entrepreneurs bring to Canada’s business landscape. We’re proud to continue this partnership by providing trusted Canadian digital resources like .CA domains that help entrepreneurs build their online presence while keeping their digital identity rooted in Canada.”

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, added, “CIRA’s continued partnership helps strengthen the digital pathways that Indigenous entrepreneurs across our community rely on to grow and thrive. When Indigenous entrepreneurs have access to trusted online platforms, it supports not only individual businesses, but a thriving Indigenous business landscape built on collaboration, connection, and shared opportunity.”

Through this continued collaboration, Pow Wow Pitch and CIRA are working to ensure Indigenous entrepreneurs have access to the digital infrastructure and visibility needed to build sustainable online businesses. Together, the partnership reflects a shared commitment to strengthening Indigenous entrepreneurship in Canada’s digital economy.

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 CIRA

CIRA is the national not-for-profit best known for managing the .CA domain on behalf of all Canadians. As a leader in Canada’s internet ecosystem, CIRA offers a wide range of products, programs and services designed to make the internet a secure and accessible space for all. CIRA represents Canada on both national and international stages to support its goal of building a trusted internet for Canadians by helping shape the future of the internet.

For more information, visit cira.ca.

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Since its founding in 1989, Altis Recruitment has grown into one of Canada’s largest independent staffing firms, supporting more than 2,900 clients nationwide and placing over 8,000 candidates each year across a wide range of industries and sectors. This partnership aligns with Pow Wow Pitch’s strategic focus on building strong talent, leadership, and organizational culture as a foundation for long term sustainability.

As part of the partnership, Altis provides HR advisory support to the Pow Wow Pitch team and shares industry knowledge through mentorship and coaching opportunities connected to Indigenous entrepreneurs participating in Pow Wow Pitch programming. These contributions reflect a shared commitment to knowledge exchange, relationship building, and community centered approaches to entrepreneurship.

In 2026, Altis will once again support the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, honouring Indigenous business leadership, community contributions, and excellence across Canada.

“As an entrepreneur and business owner, I understand the realities of building and sustaining a business, and I am grateful to be part of a partnership that centres Indigenous entrepreneurs and their visions,” said Kathryn Tremblay, Co-Founder and Owner of Altis Recruitment. “Continuing our partnership with Pow Wow Pitch reflects our respect for Indigenous-led entrepreneurship and community driven business. Our team looks forward to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs in meaningful ways, through mentorship, collaboration, and community.”

“We are pleased to continue working alongside Altis as part of our growing partner community,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “Their engagement strengthens our organizational capacity and supports the relationships, knowledge sharing, and networks that Indigenous entrepreneurs identify as critical to their success.”

Together, Pow Wow Pitch and Altis are contributing to a strong, connected ecosystem for Indigenous entrepreneurship. Rooted in community, collaboration, and shared learning, this partnership supports pathways for growth, visibility, and long-term success.

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 Altis Recruitment & Technology Inc.

Founded in 1989, Altis Recruitment & Technology Inc. (“Altis”—formerly excelHR) is one of Canada’s largest independent staffing firms and remains 100% Canadian-owned and operated, with offices in Ottawa, Toronto and Vancouver. Through its two sister brands, Altis Recruitment and Altis Technology (for all IT staffing), Altis supports more than 2,900 client organizations across industries and sectors nationwide, helping them thrive by connecting them with highly skilled, qualified candidates. Every year, our team of specialized recruiters places more than 8,000 qualified candidates in meaningful roles from coast to coast. Altis is recognized as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies (Platinum Club Member) by Deloitte and has received Women Business Enterprise certification from WBE Canada.

www.altis.com

Media inquiries

Please contact media@altis.com.

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Since the partnership began in 2021, Sklar Wilton has played an integral role in Pow Wow Pitch’s growth. This includes contributing to the Indigenous Startup Program, recognizing Indigenous excellence through the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, and co-developing Pow Wow Pitch’s five year strategic plan, which continues to guide the organization’s direction.

In 2026, Sklar Wilton continues to support Pow Wow Pitch as the organization moves further into the implementation phase of its strategic plan. With the framework now established, the partnership is focused on translating long-term goals into action across programming, partnerships, and organizational development. 

“We are grateful for the ongoing collaboration with Sklar Wilton as we continue to put our long term strategy into practice,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “Their partnership has supported us in building clarity, structure, and momentum as we grow as an organization.” 

Beyond strategic planning, Sklar Wilton continues to engage directly with Pow Wow Pitch programming. As a collaborating partner of the Pow Wow Pitch Finalist Bootcamp, their team works directly with finalists, sharing knowledge and insight to support them in their final pitch to help strengthen their pitches and build readiness and confidence for the Grand Finale. 

“Our work with Pow Wow Pitch has always been about walking alongside the organization as it grows and evolves,” said Jennifer Marley, Partner at Sklar Wilton. “Entering 2026, we are proud to continue this partnership and to remain engaged as Pow Wow Pitch moves forward with intention, leadership, and a clear long term vision.” 

Together, Pow Wow Pitch and Sklar Wilton continue a partnership rooted in collaboration, shared learning, and long term commitment to 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 Sklar Wilton & Associates

Sklar Wilton is a leading Strategy and Insights partner. We work with savvy brand builders to unlock growth by uniquely fusing together Strategy, Insights, Facilitation and Storytelling. Our work helps drive business decisions and leads to clarity, action, and real results. For almost 40 years, we have been dedicated to building stronger brands and helping others succeed, working alongside our long-standing clients as a trusted partner and strategic advisor. We are proud of our special culture and believe in an inclusive and equitable workplace where individual differences and perspectives are recognized and embraced.  

For more information about Sklar Wilton, visit sklarwilton.com. 

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“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

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Through this partnership, a student consulting team conducted comprehensive research and a full communications audit to evaluate how Pow Wow Pitch currently connects with its diverse audiences, partners, and community members. The goal of the project was to ensure that the organization’s communications approach is aligned with its objectives, supports its long-term goals, and enables more effective and consistent engagement.

“This project has been instrumental in helping us step back and look at how we communicate and engage with our community,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “As Pow Wow Pitch continues to grow, it’s important that our communications systems are as strong and intentional as our programs. SSCG’s research and recommendations have given us practical tools to stay organized, make informed decisions, and ensure our messaging consistently supports our mission and strategic priorities.”

As part of the engagement, SSCG delivered a detailed report and practical resources, including:

• A full research-based analysis and audit of Pow Wow Pitch’s key audiences;
• Insights and recommendations to strengthen communications in alignment with organizational goals;
• A comprehensive communications calendar to support planning, coordination, and consistency; and,
• A communications decision tree tool designed to guide efficient and strategic posting decisions.
  

Together, these deliverables provide Pow Wow Pitch with a more structured and strategic foundation for how, when, and where it communicates, supporting stronger storytelling, clearer priorities, and more effective use of its platforms.

“We are proud to have supported Pow Wow Pitch once again through this important work,” said Dr. Robert Helal, Director, Sprott Student Consulting Group in Carleton’s Sprott School of Business. “SSCG is committed to serving community and building future leaders through experiential learning that creates real value for community organizations. This project allowed our students to apply their research and strategy skills in a way that strengthens an organization doing vital work for Indigenous entrepreneurs.”

The outcomes of this collaboration will play a key role in shaping Pow Wow Pitch’s ongoing communications planning under its broader strategic priorities. With stronger systems and clearer audience insights in place, Pow Wow Pitch is better positioned to tell its stories, highlight  opportunities, and communicate its work with clarity and intention as it continues to elevate Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island.

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