Pow Wow Pitch, an Indigenous-led non-profit organization dedicated to empowering and supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs, is excited to unveil the 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Box in partnership with RBC and Mastercard. Valued at over $250, this curated collection features thirteen selected products and digital experiences created by Indigenous entrepreneurs.

The Pow Wow Pitch Box Program offers emerging Indigenous-owned businesses a platform to gain exposure, access mentorship, funding, and vital support to elevate their ventures. By sourcing products directly from these entrepreneurs, Pow Wow Pitch helps them connect with hundreds of new customers.

This year’s box features a curated mix of products and experiences spanning wellness, food, accessories, art, books, and digital offerings, highlighting the creativity and innovation of Indigenous entrepreneurs from across Turtle Island. The 2026 edition is brought to life through Lofi, an original artwork by Inuit artist and Taqqiq founder Saelym DeGrandpre. Inspired by music, creativity, and cultural identity, Lofi transforms the box into a collectible piece that celebrates contemporary Indigenous art and storytelling.

Spotlight on this year’s Pow Wow Pitch Box products:

Limited Edition Antler Pin –  Taqqiq

Taqqiq is an Inuit-owned business founded by artist and designer Saelym DeGrandpre of Baker Lake, Nunavut, and the featured artist behind the 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Box. Inspired by Inuit culture and storytelling, Taqqiq creates wearable art that celebrates identity and connection. This limited edition antler pin, crafted from caribou antler and featuring a hand-painted Inuk drum, offers a unique expression of Inuit artistry and tradition.

Rooted Cap – Tapwi

Founded by Cree-Métis entrepreneur Bobbie Racette, recipient of the 2022 RBC Entrepreneurial Icon Award at the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, Tapwi is an Indigenous lifestyle brand rooted in truth, authenticity, and purpose. The Rooted Cap reflects the importance of staying connected to who you are, where you come from, and the values that guide your path. Designed as a reminder to remain grounded while reaching for new possibilities, it celebrates personal growth, identity, and community.

Berry Patch Bundle – Bougie Birch

Founded by Mohawk entrepreneur Ashley Clark, Bougie Birch is an Indigenous-owned business dedicated to sharing culture, creativity, and connection through meaningful products and experiences. The Berry Patch Bundle features strawberry, blueberry, raspberry, and blackberry embroidered patches inspired by the importance of berries in Indigenous teachings. Representing nourishment, seasonal cycles, and the abundance of the land, these vibrant patches bring a touch of nature-inspired storytelling to jackets, bags, hats, and more.

PASS THE SAGE – Tessa Belanger 

Pass the Sage was created by Tessa Belanger, an Anishinaabeg writer, educator, and community healer from Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg, and the 2025 Pow Wow Pitch Creative Semi-Final Winner. Rooted in the belief that storytelling is medicine, Pass the Sage brings together Indigenous voices, reflections, and experiences that encourage healing, self-discovery, and connection. Through stories of strength, growth, and resilience, the book creates space for readers to honour their journeys while finding inspiration in the shared experiences of others.

Room Linen Mist in Aloe + White Tea + Soft Woods – Mashkiki Lifestyle & Co.

Mashkiki Lifestyle & Co. is an Indigenous women-owned home fragrance and lifestyle brand founded by Métis sisters Amanda Britten and Monicque Kitchen, 2025 Pow Wow Pitch Semi Finalists. Mashkiki creates small-batch products inspired by memories, land, and community. The Aloe + White Tea + Soft Woods Room Linen Mist offers a fresh and calming blend that brings warmth and balance to any space. Thoughtfully crafted to create moments of comfort and reflection, it invites the soothing essence of nature into everyday life.

Fireweed & Lavender Lotion Bar – Nature Spirit Soaps 

Nature Spirit Soaps is an Indigenous-owned business founded by Tahltan entrepreneur and 2025 Pow Wow Pitch Semi-Finalist Kim in Whitehorse, Yukon. Inspired by traditional plant knowledge and the healing properties of the land, Nature Spirit Soaps creates handcrafted bath, body, and skincare products using wild-harvested botanicals. The Fireweed & Lavender Lotion Bar features wild-harvested fireweed extracts blended with nourishing oils and butters to help soothe, moisturize, and support everyday wellness.

Beaded Keychain – Eiralize Dreams

Eiralize Dreams is an Indigenous-owned business founded by Marissa Dube of Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg and Kahnawà, and a 2023 Pow Wow Pitch Semi-Finalist. Inspired by a love of beadwork and self-expression, Eiralize Dreams creates handcrafted pieces that celebrate Indigenous artistry and creativity. This beaded keychain adds a beautiful and meaningful touch to everyday life.

Shaker Bottle – For The People

For The People is an Indigenous-owned social enterprise founded by Quinn Williams of Walpole Island First Nation. Built on the belief that wellness and community go hand in hand, For The People creates products that encourage healthy, active lifestyles. Their shaker bottle is designed for everyday use, whether mixing protein shakes, pre-workout, or staying hydrated throughout the day, making wellness accessible for the people, by the people.

Red Hamburger Relish – Rad Relish Co.

Rad Relish Co. is a Métis-owned business founded by Garrett Millsap, a 2022 Pow Wow Pitch Finalist, and inspired by a family recipe first created by Peggy Millsap in the 1940s. Rooted in tradition and reimagined for today, their Red Hamburger Relish delivers a sweet and tangy flavour while embracing innovative packaging designed to reduce environmental impact.

Limited Edition Sedna Greeting Card – Annie Pillaktuaq

Annie Pillaktuaq is an Inuk artist and recipient of the Consumer Products & Retail category at the 2025 Pow Wow Pitch Finals. Inspired by Inuit stories and traditions, Annie creates artwork that celebrates culture, connection, and the natural world. These limited edition 5 x 7 greeting cards feature her depiction of Sedna, the Inuit sea goddess, bringing a meaningful piece of Inuit artistry and storytelling to share with others.

Cellphone Cozy – Aurora Heat

Aurora Heat is a Dënesųłiné-owned business founded by Brenda Dragon of the Northwest Territories. Inspired by generations of northern knowledge and craftsmanship, Aurora Heat creates handmade products using natural materials that celebrate connection to the land. Their Custom Fur Cell Accessory combines traditional materials with contemporary style, adding a unique northern touch while showcasing the beauty and artistry of Indigenous craftsmanship.

Online Portfolio – Jamie Stevenson Photography

Jamie Stevenson Photography is owned by Tłı̨chǫ photographer Jamie Wetrade-Stevenson of Yellowknife, Northwest Territories. Through her lens, Jamie captures stories, landscapes, and moments that reflect the beauty and spirit of the North. This digital experience offers access to her online portfolio, showcasing a collection of photography that celebrates connection, culture, and the world around us.

Digital Experience – Adakai Media Group 

Adakai Media Group is an Indigenous-owned production company founded by filmmaker Wade Adakai. Through storytelling and film, Wade shares stories that uplift Indigenous voices and communities. The Hidden Blessing | MOD•SANI follows Stephanie Mitchell, founder of Mod•Sani, as she explores Diné cultural teachings and natural approaches to support her son with autism. The short film highlights the importance of embracing and celebrating neurodivergent relatives while fostering greater understanding, acceptance, and community support. 

Sales for the 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Box closed on July 24th. View these products at powwowpitch.org/box. 

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Pow Wow Pitch, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs, co-presented in partnership with RBC and Mastercard, announced the selection of artist Saelym DeGrandpre’s piece ‘Lofi’ as the official art for the 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Box, a mailer box featuring quality products created by early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs.

Pow Wow Pitch supports emerging Indigenous-owned businesses by creating opportunities for visibility, recognition, and access to mentorship, funding, and community support to grow their ventures. Since launching in 2021, the Pow Wow Pitch Box program has showcased both digital and physical products from Indigenous entrepreneurs, connecting them with new audiences across the country.

Each year, Pow Wow Pitch collaborates with Indigenous artists to bring the Box design to life. In 2026, Saelym DeGrandpre was selected for her distinctive artistic approach and her work advancing Inuit representation within contemporary design.

About Saelym DeGrandpre

Saelym DeGrandpre is an urban Inuk graphic designer, artist, and mother based in Ottawa, Ontario.Saelym graduated from Algonquin College with a General Arts and Science in Aboriginal Studies.

Saelym’s work is rooted in a desire to increase Inuit representation in media, creating space for people to see themselves reflected through design and storytelling. Through her graphic design practice, she has collaborated with organizations including APTN, Know History, Canada’s History Society, Pinnguaq, Pauktuutit, Tungasuvvingat Inuit, Connected North, Winterlude, and more.

Saelym’s multidisciplinary practice spans graphic design, carving, digital illustration, printmaking, and jewelry making. Drawing inspiration from Inuit legends and teachings, femininity, contemporary art, and spirituality, she incorporates Tunniit, or traditional Inuit tattoos, as a form of visual storytelling that conveys energy, sound, and emotion while bringing Inuit culture to the forefront of design.

About ‘Lofi’

‘Lofi’ is a contemporary digital artwork that explores the connection between music, creativity, and cultural identity. Inspired by the creation of her first Inuk drum, the piece reflects how rhythm and sound shape both artistic practice and personal growth. In Inuit culture, music holds deep meaning, from throat singing and lullabies to drum dancing and storytelling that marks seasonal changes like the return of the sun.

Through ‘Lofi’, Saelym reimagines music interfaces through an Inuit lens, blending cultural elements with modern design. The work reflects her use of music, particularly lo-fi, as a tool to focus, create, and fully immerse herself in her process.

Saelym’s work reflects her journey as an Indigenous entrepreneur learning to create on her own terms. By embracing her natural creative rhythm, she has developed an approach that prioritizes authenticity, cultural connection, and sustainability.

Creating Space Through Entrepreneurship

“Indigenous entrepreneurship means creating space for our stories, our representation, and our design perspectives to be seen, valued, and sustained,” Saelym shared. “Music has become a tool that supports my creativity and allows me to create work I am proud to share.”

On her collaboration with the Pow Wow Pitch Box, she adds, “I’m honoured to have my work featured on the Pow Wow Pitch Box. Being part of something that uplifts Indigenous entrepreneurs and creatives means a lot to me. It’s important that our stories and perspectives are represented across all spaces, including design.”

“Pow Wow Pitch is proud to feature Saelym DeGrandpre in our 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Box,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “We first saw Saelym’s work last year when she was a 2025 Semi-Finalist, and we are always thrilled to collaborate with Indigenous entrepreneurs who have been part of our programming. This year marks our first collaboration with an Inuk artist for the Pow Wow Pitch Box. Through Lofi, Saelym brings Inuit culture to life in a contemporary design. We are honoured to showcase her work and to continue our commitment to increasing visibility for Indigenous artists across Turtle Island.”

With ‘Lofi’, Saelym’s work will help inspire and uplift a new wave of Indigenous entrepreneurs, connecting creativity, culture, and business through the Pow Wow Pitch Box.

Applications to be featured in the 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Box will open on April 17, 2026.

To view more of Saelym’s work, visit Taqqiq.

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Each year, Pow Wow Pitch provides emerging Indigenous-owned businesses with the opportunity to gain exposure and recognition, and access support, mentorship and funding to take their business to the next level. The majority of Pow Wow Pitch Box products are procured and distributed to Pow Wow Pitch Partners, an initiative that helps connect these Indigenous entrepreneurs with corporate audiences and new customers across Canada.

Pre-sales are now open to purchase the 2025 Pow Wow Pitch Box at powwowpitch.org/box until June 30, 2025. The contents of the Box will be announced in August 2025, and shipping will begin at the end of October 2025. Pre-ordering during the Pow Wow Pitch Box presale guarantees you receive a limited-edition box filled with products from emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs before they sell out. Your early support helps amplify Indigenous voices and directly supports small businesses in their growth journey.

“Indigenous entrepreneurs are building remarkable businesses rooted in culture and driven by community impact,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “We’re proud to fuel their growth through a major purchase order and encourage everyone to support by pre-ordering this year’s Pow Wow Pitch Box.”

This year’s Box features a powerful artwork titled ‘Sisterhood’ by Angela Gillette, artist and founder of White Corn Wear from the Three Affiliated Tribes of North and South Dakota. The piece selected for the Box’s design represents the strength, connection, and resilience of Indigenous women.

“I’m truly humbled that my artwork was chosen to be the centerpiece of the Pow Wow Pitch Box. It’s an honor to represent women, Native entrepreneurs, and small business owners in such a meaningful way,” shared Angela Gillette.

The inside of the Box also features a poem titled ‘What If’ by Dene/Métis poet Tenille K Campbell, commissioned specifically for Pow Wow Pitch. The poem speaks to possibility and community. “I am honoured to take part in this year’s Pow Wow Pitch Box because while this may be called a competition, in reality it’s a building block to community.” said Tenille K Campbell. “A place to step together, work with each other, and explore the possibilities shoulder to shoulder.”

Pre-sales for the 2025 Pow Wow Pitch Box are available now until June 30, 2025 only! Purchase yours today at powwowpitch.org/box.

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Pow Wow Pitch, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs, co-presented in partnership with RBC and Mastercard, announced the selection of artist Angela Gillette’s piece ‘Sisterhood’ as the official art for the 2025 Pow Wow Pitch Box, a mailer box featuring quality products created by early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs.

Pow Wow Pitch provides emerging Indigenous-owned businesses with the opportunity to gain exposure and recognition, and access support, mentorship, and funding to take their business to the next level. The Pow Wow Pitch Box program was created in 2021 to support the procurement of digital and physical products from Indigenous entrepreneurs to support and provide a platform for them to reach hundreds of new customers.

Each year Pow Wow Pitch collaborates with leading Indigenous artists for the Box design, this year Angela Gillette was selected, recognizing her unique path from Pow Wow Pitch Alumni to valued collaborator and ambassador.

About Angela Gillette

Angela Gillette, a member of the Three Affiliates Tribes of North and South Dakota, is the founder of White Corn Wear—an apparel and accessories brand known for its beautiful satin skirts featuring her original designs. With a background in accounting and finance, Angela discovered her creative side through digital art, using photographs and graphic design to bring her ideas to life. Inspired by her daughter and encouraged by artist Butch Thunderhawk, she embraced the idea that art can take many forms. Her work draws from the Plains ledger art style, which she reimagines through modern digital techniques.

What began as a vision for custom purse linings evolved into a successful brand that’s become a staple on the powwow trail, often selling out before the end of the powwow. Angela’s ability to blend entrepreneurship with cultural storytelling sets her work apart. Through White Corn Wear, she continues to celebrate identity, creativity, and self-made artistry.

About ‘Sisterhood’

‘Sisterhood’ is a powerful digital artwork by Angela Gillette that honours the strength, connection, and resilience of Indigenous women. Inspired by a photo of her daughter and her friends within the powwow circle, the piece reflects the deep bonds formed through culture, tradition, and shared experience. Featuring three traditional dancers, the artwork is a hand-selected variation of Angela’s signature dancer design seen on her renowned satin skirts from White Corn Wear. 

“‘Sisterhood’ is really close to my heart,” shared Angela Gillette, Founder and Owner of White Corn Wear. “Growing up in the powwow circle, I gained a sisterhood of women who’ve supported me through life, and I’ve seen my daughter build the same kind of circle around her.”

Each dancer represents a facet of sisterhood, but the figure on the left—clad in a red dress marked with handprints—holds special significance. This red dress is a tribute to the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) movement, and a deeply personal remembrance of Angela’s sister-in-law, Olivia Lone Bear. 

Angela continues to speak Olivia’s name and use her art to raise awareness for MMIWG, honouring her family, Olivia’s children, and countless others impacted. ‘Sisterhood’ is more than a design—it is a visual story of connection, loss, and the enduring spirit of Indigenous women.

To view more of Angela’s work, visit White Corn Wear. 

On her collaboration with the Pow Wow Pitch Box, Angela shares the following, “I’m truly humbled that my artwork was chosen to be the centerpiece of the Pow Wow Pitch Box. It’s an honor to represent women, Native entrepreneurs, and small business owners in such a meaningful way. I’m passionate about supporting others on their business journeys—especially those just starting with a small idea. To be part of something that celebrates and uplifts Indigenous innovation makes me incredibly proud.”

Angela shares a final note to Indigenous entrepreneurs on their own journeys, “Don’t stop taking steps—even small ones. There are so many of us out here willing to help, and I’m always happy to talk shop with anyone who’s serious about building something real and sustainable.”

“Pow Wow Pitch is incredibly proud to feature Angela Gillette in our 2025 Pow Wow Pitch Box,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “As a Pow Wow Pitch Alumni, Angela embodies the spirit of Indigenous entrepreneurship—grounded in culture, resilience, and storytelling. Her artwork is both deeply personal and profoundly powerful, sharing stories of sisterhood, community, and advocacy through her distinct visual style, which blends Plains ledger art with digital techniques. We are honoured to showcase her work and amplify the truth of Indigenous experiences through the lens of artistic storytelling in this year’s Pow Wow Pitch Box.”

With ‘Sisterhood,’ Angela’s work is set to empower and celebrate a new wave of Indigenous entrepreneurs to reach new heights and opportunities through the Pow Wow Pitch Box.

The inside of the Box also features a poem by Indigenous poet Tenille K Campbell, commissioned for Pow Wow Pitch called ‘What If,’ which speaks to possibility and community.

Applications to be featured in the 2025 Pow Wow Pitch Box will open on April 17, 2025.

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Today, Pow Wow Pitch, a 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 the launch of the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Box program, a collaborative initiative of Pow Wow Pitch to procure products from the Indigenous entrepreneurs to support and provide a platform for the entrepreneurs to reach hundreds of new customers.

Each year, Pow Wow Pitch provides emerging Indigenous-owned businesses with the opportunity to gain exposure and recognition, and access support, mentorship and funding to take their business to the next level. 

2024 Pow Wow Pitchers and Alumni will have the opportunity to have Pow Wow Pitch purchase up to 350 units of their products for inclusion in the Box, and will be offering a limited quantity of Pow Wow Pitch Boxes for purchase. Entrepreneurs will receive training and support to pitch their products to buyers and form strategic distribution partnerships to be included in the 2024 Box application process. Indigenous entrepreneurs of the Pow Wow Pitch community can apply now to have their products featured in the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Box until July 12, 2024. 

Pre-sales are now open to purchase the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Box at powwowpitch.org/box until June 30, 2024. The contents of the Box will be announced in August 2024, and shipping will begin at the end of October.

“Indigenous entrepreneurs are creating incredible businesses connected with their culture that impact their communities,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “We are thrilled to support the growth of Pow Wow Pitch businesses with a major purchase order and urge those who wish to support Indigenous entrepreneurs to purchase this year’s Pow Wow Pitch Box.”

This year’s Box features beautiful artwork titled ‘All My Relations’ by Kiowa and Choctaw Artist, Steven Paul Judd. The piece selected for the Box’s design represents vibrancy, diversity, growing, and is a celebration of cultures across the Nations of Turtle Island.

“I wanted to work with Pow Wow Pitch on the Pitch Box because of their work in empowering Native entrepreneurs, fostering economic independence, and identifying untapped potential within Indigenous communities,” shared Steven Paul Judd.

The inside of the Box also features a poem by Indigenous poet Tenille K Campbell, commissioned for Pow Wow Pitch called ‘What If,’ which speaks to possibility and community.

“I was honoured to take part in this year’s Pow Wow Pitch Box because while this may be called a competition, in reality it’s a building block to community.” said Tenille K Campbell. “A place to step together, work with each other, and explore the possibilities shoulder to shoulder.”

To apply to be featured in the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Box, click here.

To order your 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Box, click here. (Pre-sales close on June 30, 2024 and quantities are limited).

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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 the selection of artist Steven Paul Judd’s piece ‘All My Relations’ as the official art for the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Box, a mailer box featuring quality products created by early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs.

Pow Wow Pitch provides emerging Indigenous-owned businesses with the opportunity to gain exposure and recognition, and access support, mentorship, and funding to take their business to the next level. The Pow Wow Pitch Box is a collaborative initiative of Pow Wow Pitch to procure products from the Indigenous entrepreneurs it supports and to provide a platform for the entrepreneurs to reach hundreds of new customers.

Each year, Pow Wow Pitch collaborates with leading Indigenous artists to feature their work on the design of the Box itself and this year, it approached Steven Paul Judd for the collaboration following a longstanding admiration of his art and his entrepreneurial impact across Turtle Island.

Steven Paul Judd is Kiowa and Choctaw from Oklahoma. He is a filmmaker, director, screenwriter, fiction author, and visualist. As a prolific visualist, Steven’s mash-ups of Native experiences and pop art encourages thought-provoking themes while embracing humour. His creations include paintings, prints, poster art, photography, and t-shirt designs. Judd is a business partner of TheNTVS.com, a premium Native American streetwear clothing line, and he frequently travels for speaking engagements and to teach workshops on stop-motion animation and mosaic painting at schools and universities across the United States. 

About ‘All My Relations’

‘All My Relations’ is a mosaic portrait to honour the Indigenous Nations, each with their own unique culture, from their music and food to their songs and language. Originally an acrylic piece on a 7’3” x 7’3” canvas, the mosaic portrait has evolved as a digital illustration. Incorporating an incredible use of beautiful colours to represent the diversity and vibrancy of all Nations across Turtle Island. 

Speaking to the diversity among Indigenous peoples, Steven’s message amplifies the celebration of culture at the root of Indigenous entrepreneurship and business while recognizing the unique challenges most face. 

“Being an Indigenous entrepreneur, we may face unique challenges related to access to resources and market opportunities,” shared Steven. “However, I have noticed in my own journey the overwhelming support Indian Country gives to Native-run business and I’m excited to see so many draw from their cultural heritage, traditional knowledge, and community values in their business endeavors.”

To view more of Steven Paul Judd’s work, visit www.thentvs.com/steven-paul-judd. 

On his collaboration with the Pow Wow Pitch Box, Steven shares the following, “I wanted to work with Pow Wow Pitch on the Pitch Box because of their work in empowering Native entrepreneurs, fostering economic independence, and identifying untapped potential within Indigenous communities.”

“Pow Wow Pitch is incredibly proud to welcome Steven to this year’s Pow Wow Pitch Box,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “I have been following Steven for a long time and his artwork speaks so profoundly of walking in two worlds, bringing Native humour to thought provoking pop art themes. His artwork tells stories, and his creativity and entrepreneurial spirit are truly inspirational and so important to our collective actualization and celebration of who we are as Indigenous peoples. I’m excited for everyone to experience ‘All My Relations’ and bring a piece of Steven’s art into their lives through the Pow Wow Box.”

With ‘All My Relations,’ Steven’s work is set to empower and celebrate a new wave of Indigenous entrepreneurs to reach new heights and opportunities through the Pow Wow Pitch Box.

Pre-orders for the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Box are open now until June 30, 2024 at powwowpitch.org/box.

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Today, Pow Wow Pitch, North America’s premier pitch competition for Indigenous entrepreneurs, presented in partnership with RBC, Shopify and Mastercard, announced the contents of the 2023 Pow Wow Pitch Box, featuring fourteen selected products from Indigenous businesses. Each box is priced at $150 plus tax and shipping, with a market value of more than $250 with all funds used to procure products from the Indigenous businesses featured in the box. 

Pow Wow Pitch provides emerging Indigenous-owned businesses with the opportunity to gain exposure and recognition, and access support, mentorship and funding to take their business to the next level. The Pow Wow Pitch Box is a collaborative initiative of Pow Wow Pitch to procure products from the Indigenous entrepreneurs to support and provide a platform for the entrepreneurs to reach hundreds of new customers. 

This year, Pow Wow Pitch has featured fourteen products spanning from bath, body, and stationary, to apparel, home, and food products. In addition, the box is also presented with art from Indigenous artists like Louie Gong’s iconic Hummingbird Design and Tenille K. Campbell’s ‘What If’ poem written for Indigenous entrepreneurs. 

Spotlight on this year’s Pow Wow Pitch Box products and vendors: 

‘You Are Sacred’ Vinyl Sticker

From Eagle Woman Prints, founded by Jenna Valiquette, the handmade sticker is approximately 3×3 inches and is perfect for adding a touch of Indigenous ways of knowing to your belongings. Featuring the powerful message “You Are Sacred,” this sticker is a reminder of the importance of mental health and serves as a way to honour and celebrate Indigenous culture. Made with high-quality vinyl, this black and white sticker is waterproof, durable and long-lasting, ensuring that its minimalist yet powerful message will stay visible for years to come. 

Grandma Treesaw’s Yukon Bannock Original Mix

From Grandma Treesaw’s Yukon Bannock, founded by Teresa Ward, is a Teslin Tlingit-style bannock mix that is “fluffy on the inside, crunchy on the outside and oh so yummy!” This staple is good to eat any time of the day or night, and can pair well with any meal. Enjoy this taste of Yukon First Nation-style Bannock.

‘Take Care Of Yourself’ Unlined Notebook

From 4 Generations Creations, founded by Ashley Michel, the soft cover, unlined notebook features a design inspired by Secwépemc’ulucw heritage and the traditional plants of Yarrow, Wild Raspberry, Juniper, & Balsamroot Sunflower. Take care of all of your thoughts and notes with this beautiful design as a reminder of growth and knowledge. 

Double Strap Shoulder Bag

From MINI TIPI, co-founded by Trisha Pitura and Melanié Bernard, the double strap shoulder bag comes in an assortment of three patterns designed by Indigenous artists. It’s perfectly oversized for you to bring along for a day at the beach, your yoga or workout class, grabbing a few things at the grocery store, and work. You’ll fall in love with the eco-friendly fabric and unique pattern. This bag is lined with a thick black cotton, with one internal pocket to slip a phone, keys and cards that can be accessed quickly.

Indigenomics – Taking a Seat and the Economic Table

Written by Carol Anne Hilton, Indigenomics lays out the tenets of the emerging Indigenous economy, built around relationships, multigenerational stewardship of resources, and care for all.

Travel Size Sweetgrass Candle

From Indigenously Infused, founded by Robyn Ivory Pierson, experience the calming essence of Sweetgrass no matter where you are with an Indigenously Infused Travel Size Candle. Each candle is hand-poured and topped with the traditional medicines. 

Á7PAWTN – Muscle Salve

From Skwalwen Botanicals, founded by Leigh Joseph & Rose Williams, Á7PAWTN (pa-pow-tin) translates to “plant that relieves sore muscles.” This powerful muscle salve is made with oils of nettle and arnica – natural plant ingredients that help ease sore muscles. Experience deep relief along with a soothing tingly sensation created from peppermint essential oil. 

Aaniin Socks

From aaniin retail inc., founded by Chelsee Pettit, the aaniin (hello) a classic, 100% cotton crew sock. Start the conversation with aaniin. 

RainSong Soap Bar

From RavenSong Soaps, owned by Alli Asu, enjoy the scent of cedar and green leaves anchored with heart notes of jasmine, amber + Tonka drift through the air with the RainSong soap bar. 

Diamondback Juice Hot Sauce

From Navajo Mike’s, founded by Michael John, spice up any meal with Diamondback Juice. The habanero and fresno chili sauce blended with spices that define the Southwest.

Turtle Island Bath Bomb

From Roots + Raven, founded by Tanya Gluvakov, the Turtle Island Bath Bomb is inspired by the Skywoman creation story. This bath bomb combines blue butterfly pea flower powder and French green clay to detoxify and nourish your skin. Lightly scented with pure juniper berry essential oil and cedar leaf. Topped with wild harvested juniper berries and cedar from the land. 

Flower Pattern Lanyard

From Kokom Scrunchies, founded by the Beaudry family in Kitigan Zibi, this colourful lanyard is a stylish addition to your everyday wear, inspired by traditional kokom scarves. 

Traditional Maple Syrup

From Wabanki Maple, founded by Jolene Johnson, their Traditional Maple Syrup is sourced from the territories of the Wabanaki, specifically the home of the Mi’kmaq & Wolastoqiyik Peoples. Wabanaki Maple’s golden, grade-A maple syrup is renowned for its classic and flavour through our sophisticated blend.

Films from Kejic Production

Pow Wow Pitch Box recipients will receive special access to three films created by Kejic Productions and Produced by Founder and CEO Erica Daniels: 

Bimibatoo-win – Where I Ran
Seven Sacred Laws
Run As One – The Journey of the Front Runners.

Quantities are limited for the 2023 Pow Wow Pitch Box, buy yours now at powwowpitch.org/box.

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Today, Pow Wow Pitch, a non-profit organization that supports and celebrates Indigenous entrepreneurs, announced the selection of artist Louie Gong’s piece ‘Good Day Bad Day’ as the official art for the 2023 Pow Wow Pitch Box, a mailer box featuring quality products created by early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs.

Pow Wow Pitch provides emerging Indigenous-owned businesses with the opportunity to gain exposure and recognition, and access support, mentorship and funding to take their business to the next level. The Pow Wow Pitch Box is a collaborative initiative of Pow Wow Pitch to procure products from the Indigenous entrepreneurs it supports and to provide a platform for the entrepreneurs to reach hundreds of new customers.

Each year, Pow Wow Pitch collaborates with leading Indigenous artists to feature their work on the design of the Box itself and this year, it approached Louie Gong for the collaboration following a longstanding admiration of his art and his entrepreneurial impact across Turtle Island.

Louie Gong (Nooksack) (M.Ed.) is a Coast Salish artist, activist and social entrepreneur with a knack for bringing people together. In 2008, he founded the iconic lifestyle brand Eighth Generation – the first Native-owned company to produce wool blankets. As a self-taught artist, Louie’s art merges traditional Coast Salish art with influences from his mixed heritage and urban environment to create work that resonates widely across communities and cultures.

About Louie’s Hummingbird Design 

Louie hand-picked a variation of his ‘Good Day, Bad Day’ painting for this collaboration because the hummingbird theme is a fitting symbol for the Pow Wow Pitch Box initiative. 

The contemporary Coast Salish design carries forward teachings from his Grandma (Squamish/Nooksack).  “She would often say that hummingbirds are harbingers of good news brought to us by our ancestors,” he said. “That’s why you feel excited when you see them.” Louie’s wish is to ignite that similar feeling of excitement and good news when people receive their Pow wow Pitch Box and all of the Indigenous goods within it.

To view more of Louie’s work or to purchase a copy of your own, please visit louiegong.com for more information. 

“I am proud to be collaborating with Pow Wow Pitch by contributing ‘Good Day, Bad Day,’ said Louie. “I’m committed to uplifting Native artists and entrepreneurs and Pow Wow Pitch is helping us grow. I think the art will carry these good intentions to everyone that buys or receives a box.”

“Pow Wow Pitch is incredibly proud to welcome Louie to this year’s Pow Wow Pitch Box,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “Like everyone else, I have been following Louie for a long time and his work speaks so loudly, is so pointed, sometimes funny, but always with a story to tell. His artistry and entrepreneurship are truly inspirational and so important to our collective actualization and celebration. We cannot wait for everyone to receive a Pow Wow Box to have ‘Good Day, Bad Day’ and Louie in their space”

Pre-orders for the 2023 Pow Wow Pitch Box are open now at powwowpitch.org/box.

The post Louie Gong’s Iconic Hummingbird Design Announced as Official Selection for 2023 Pow Wow Pitch Box appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.

On April 30, Pow Wow Pitch, North America’s premier pitch competition for Indigenous

Today, Pow Wow Pitch, North America’s premier pitch competition for emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, announced its second annual Mailer Box in collaboration with Raven Reads to support early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs to accelerate their growth.

Each year, Pow Wow Pitch provides emerging Indigenous-owned businesses with the opportunity to gain exposure and recognition, and access support, mentorship and funding to take their business to the next level. 

In 2020, Pow Wow Pitch piloted a Gift Box, procuring products from current and former Pow Wow Pitch entrepreneurs, and in 2021, partnered with Raven Reads to scale the program from 125 Boxes to 800 boxes, which sold out in less than 3 days and supported 10 Pow Wow Pitchers and Alumni with a total of $70,000 in purchase orders, while delighting those who purchased the box.

This year, the Mailer Box Program is scaling further with 2,500 units, accelerating the growth of 10 Indigenous entrepreneurs with $200,000 in purchase orders.

2022 Pow Wow Pitchers and Alumni will have the opportunity to have Raven Reads purchase up to 2,500 units of their products for inclusion in the Box. Entrepreneurs will receive training and support to pitch their products to buyers and form strategic distribution partnerships to be included in the 2022 Box application process. Pow Wow Pitch and Raven Reads will announce selected products in August 2022.

“Indigenous entrepreneurs are creating incredible businesses connected with their culture that impact their communities,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “We are proud to partner with Raven Reads to accelerate the growth of 10 Pow Wow Pitch businesses with a major purchase order and urge those who wish to support Indigenous entrepreneurs to purchase this year’s Pow Wow Pitch Box.”

“Raven Reads was founded to raise awareness of our collective past in Canada and about Indigenous cultures and economies,” said Nicole McLaren, Founder and CEO of Raven Reads. “Our business model and ability to curate, package and deliver high-volumes of products to customers provides a perfect conduit for global customers to learn more about Indigenous cultures while supporting the growth of Indigenous entrepreneurs.” 

This year’s Box features beautiful artwork called Blooming by Indigenous Artist Emily Kewageshig. The piece selected for the Box’s design represents becoming, growing, nurturing and is a celebration of culture and the land. 

“When we work together and lift each other, we create a pathway into the future for the generations to come,” said Artist Emily Kewageshig. “For this reason, I’m very excited to have my artwork featured on this year’s box, alongside products from Indigenous entrepreneurs! Allow my design to encourage you to keep blooming, flourishing and thriving – just as the flowers do.” 

The inside of the Box also features a poem by Indigenous poet Tenille K Campbell, commissioned for Pow Wow Pitch called What If, which speaks to possibility and community. 

“I was honoured to take part in this year’s Pow Wow Pitch Box because while this may be called a competition, in reality it’s a building block to community.” said Tenille K Campbell. “A place to step together, work with each other, and explore the possibilities shoulder to shoulder.”

Indigenous entrepreneurs can learn more about the 2022 Pow Wow Pitch Box Program here.

Today, we are proud to do our first release of 500 Boxes. Click here to order now. 

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Today, Pow Wow Pitch, North America’s premier pitch competition for emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, announced a collaboration with Raven Reads to launch pre-sales for a limited edition mailer box featuring products from Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island. 

Each year, Pow Wow Pitch provides emerging Indigenous-owned businesses with the opportunity to gain exposure and recognition, and access support, mentorship and funding to take their business to the next level. 

In 2020, Pow Wow Pitch piloted a Gift Box, procuring products from current and former Pow Wow Pitch entrepreneurs. Following the pilot’s success, this year, Pow Wow Pitch is collaborating with award-winning Indigenous-owned and operated business Raven Reads to bring the Pow Wow Pitch Box to the next level with 500 boxes available for purchase.

Pow Wow Pitchers and Alumni will have the opportunity to have Raven Reads purchase up to 500 units of their products for inclusion in the Box this Summer. Entrepreneurs will receive training and support to pitch their products to buyers and form strategic distribution partnerships as part of their application process to be included in the 2021 Box. Pow Wow Pitch and Raven Reads will announce selected products in August 2021.

“In the context of Indigenous History Month and the uncovering of mass and unmarked graves at former residential schools across the country, entrepreneurship is an accessible form of reconciliation, empowerment, activism and reclamation for Indigenous people and communities,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “We are proud to partner with Raven Reads and urge those who wish to support Indigenous communities to support Indigenous entrepreneurs by purchasing this year’s Pow Wow Pitch Box.”

“Raven Reads was founded with the purpose of raising awareness of our collective past in Canada, and about Indigenous cultures and economies,” said Nicole McLaren, Founder and CEO of Raven Reads. “Our business model and ability to curate, package and deliver high-volumes of products to customers provides a perfect conduit for global customers to learn more about Indigenous cultures while supporting the growth of Indigenous entrepreneurs.” 

This year’s Box features beautiful art by Indigenous Artist Chief Lady Bird. The piece selected for the Box’s design is bright, floral and represents growth, nurturing and a celebration of culture and the land. 

“Collaboration between Indigenous creatives and entrepreneurs is one way that we continue to build community, and how we show support for each other,” said Chief Lady Bird. “It is an offering of lateral love.”

Indigenous entrepreneurs can learn more about the 2021 Pow Wow Pitch Box Program here.

Everyone can secure their 2021 Pow Wow Pitch Box here.

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