On September 19th, Pow Wow Pitch, an Indigenous-led non-profit organization that hosts a Turtle Island wide Indigenous Business Pitch Competition for Indigenous entrepreneurs, presented in partnership with RBC, Shopify and Mastercard Canada, announced Simon Monteith, the Opaskwayak Cree Nation Founder of Simon The Scientist, a business based in Winnipeg, Manitoba as the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Alumni Choice Semi-Final Winner. Simon has won $1,000 and is advancing to the Grand Finale for a chance to win $25,000 to grow his business.

More than 300 Indigenous entrepreneurs from across Turtle Island (Canada and the United States) applied to Pow Wow Pitch this year for their chance to win cash prizes and advance to the Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale. From the 300 applicants, 100 were selected as Semi-Finalists and provided with training and mentorship to prepare for their semi-final pitch to the Judges.

The Pow Wow Pitch Alumni Choice was created to foster a culture of giving back, mentorship, community support and empowerment across the Indigenous entrepreneur community. The Pow Wow Pitch Alumni Judges scored and selected the Semi-Finalist who they believe have the potential to win Pow Wow Pitch to advance to the Grand Finale. 

This year, the Alumni Choice Judge’s were Cece Meadows, Founder and CEO of Prados Beauty; Trisha Pitura, Co-Founder and Co-Owner of MINI TIPI; Bernice Clarke, Founder and Owner of Uasau Soap; Anthony Wingham, Co-Founder of Nuez Acres; and Alana Cook, 2023 2nd Place Pow Wow Pitch Winner and Founder of Walking Like Warriors.

“It means a lot to me knowing that past Pow Wow Pitch winners see something in me and my business,” shared Simon Monteith, Founder of Simon The Scientist. “I am very proud of myself for having a business that is worthy of this award and recognition and I am so thankful to the Alumni community. Their opinion means so much to me because it signifies that Simon the Scientist might have a shot at winning!”

Simon Monteith, the eleven-year old, Opaskwayak Cree, is the online creator behind Simon the Scientist. Simon began sharing science experiments at home in 2020 and since then has created the social media presence of Simon the Scientist known across Turtle Island. He is inspiring Indigenous youth through his science experiments, live streams, and educational videos. Simon plans to expand the impact of Simon the Scientist by incorporating merchandise with designs from Indigenous artists.

Simon pitched to win funds to purchase more technology to support his video making. He hopes to reach young people in Northern and remote communities to continue inspiring and incorporating new ideas and culture with all things science. Simon hopes to establish Simon The Scientist as a not-for-profit organization paving the way for Indigenous youth in STEM. 

“I have learned so many skills like public speaking and making decisions,” reflected Simon. “My advice is to keep having fun with entrepreneurship, it’s so much better when it is fun!”

“Congratulations Simon on winning Alumni Choice and advancing to the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “Simon’s journey has been truly remarkable, year after year he returns strong, more determined, and always inspiring. His ability to captivate the hearts and minds of our community with his passion for science and his unwavering commitment to inspiring Indigenous youth speaks volumes about his drive to create real, lasting change. Simon is a shining example of youth leadership, and we are all looking forward to seeing him shine in the Grand Finale. His impact on Turtle Island and beyond is only just the beginning, and we know he will continue to inspire for years to come.” 

“Pow Wow Pitch is an incredible showcase of Indigenous trailblazers who are making a transformative impact on our communities with their resilience, ingenuity and unwavering commitment to success.” said Tracy Antoine, Senior Director of Indigenous Programs and Policies at RBC. “We’re so proud of all our participants and semi-finalists – their courage to participate leads to life achievements and their shared stories are truly inspirational. We are committed to supporting their growth and success in the future.” 

“Being involved in Pow Wow Pitch is not just an honour, it’s a privilege to witness the creativity and innovation of Indigenous entrepreneurs,” said Kyle Brennan Shàwinipinesì, Senior Lead for Indigenous Entrepreneurship at Shopify. “It’s a reminder of the resilience and strength of our communities and the power of entrepreneurship to create positive change. Shopify has played a proud role in supporting Pow Wow Pitch, so it is exciting to see how things have grown over the years. What an incredible opportunity for Indigenous entrepreneurs!”

“The innovative thinking and solutions brought forward by all the Indigenous entrepreneurs involved in this year’s Pow Wow Pitch have been truly inspiring,” said Sasha Krstic, President of Mastercard Canada. “At Mastercard, we’re committed to working with partners like Pow Wow Pitch to unlock access to resources and opportunities for entrepreneurs across the diverse communities we serve to power economies and empower people. Congratulations to all the pitchers and congratulations to Simon on advancing to the next round.”

To watch Simon’s winning pitch, click here. 

Simon will now advance to the Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale to pitch for the Grand Prize of $25,000, which broadcasts online on October 23rd. Register to watch the 2024 Grand Finale at powwowpitch.org/register.

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Pow Wow Pitch, an Indigenous-led non-profit organization that empowers and supports Indigenous entrepreneurs, is proud to present this year’s Pow Wow Pitch Box in partnership with RBC, Shopify and Mastercard, and in collaboration with Canada Post and Indigenous Prosperity Foundation. The contents of the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Box, featuring fourteen selected products and digital experiences from Indigenous entrepreneurs, has a market value of over $250.

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 Indigenous businesses to support and provide a platform for the entrepreneurs to reach hundreds of new customers.

This year, Pow Wow Pitch has featured fourteen products and digital experiences spanning from bath, body, and stationary, to apparel, home, and food products. In addition, the box is also presented with art from Indigenous artists: Steven Paul Judd’s ‘All My Relations’ mosaic piece and Tenille K. Campbell’s ‘What If’ poem written for Indigenous entrepreneurs. 

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

Limited Edition Aaniin Bubble Scarf & Beanie

From aaniin retail Inc., founded by Chelsee Pettit from Aamjiwnaang First Nation, and in collaboration with Pow Wow Pitch, this limited edition bubble scarf and beanie hat features yellow and purple colours inspired by the ‘All My Relations’ art piece from Steven Paul Judd and Anishinaabemowin syllabics for the word “aaniin”. Stay warm for the cooler seasons with this matching set that is sure to spark any conversation with “Aaniin” (hello)!

“aaniin is honoured to collaborate with Pow Wow Pitch to bring you this limited edition set,” shared Chelsee Pettit, Founder of aaniin retail Inc. “We hope you love it, and we’re grateful to Pow Wow Pitch for their ongoing support of small businesses.”

‘Amplify Indigenous Voices’ Holographic Sticker

From 4 Generations Creations, founded by Ashley Michel, a Secwepemc mother from Kamloops, BC and 2023 Pow Wow Pitch Winner, the holographic sticker is approximately 4 inches and is perfect to add to your belongings and display your support of Indigenous peoples and communities. Featuring the powerful message ‘Amplify Indigenous Voices,’ this sticker is a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and serves as a way to honour and celebrate Indigenous peoples and their voices. Made with high-quality vinyl, this holographic sticker is waterproof, durable and long-lasting, ensuring that its minimalist yet powerful message will stay visible for years to come. 

Prados Beauty X SPJ OG Highlight Palette

From Prados Beauty, founded by Cece Meadows, a Xicana and Indigena woman from Las Cruces, New Mexico, this highlight palette is sure to light up any look. Embrace your inner glow with the Prados Beauty x Steven Paul Judd OG Highlight Palette. This palette features four universally flattering, shimmering gold shades and a pink shade that delivers buildable radiance to all skin tones. The blendable, vegan formula is easy to apply and creates a gorgeous, long-lasting highlighted look. 

‘nedi nezu (Good Medicine)’ Poems

Written by Tenille K. Campbell, a Dené and Métis author and photographer from English River First Nation, explores the beautiful space that being a sensual Indigenous woman creates. This poetry collection doesn’t shy away from depicting the gorgeous diversity surrounding the tantalizing laughter of aunties telling stories. Dive into this poetry book and immerse yourself in a sensual exploration of Indigenous culture, irresistibly drawing anyone enchanted by the allure of dating and relationships. 

Sagamité Watso Soup

From Sagamité Watso, founded by Jacques T. Watso, the traditional soup from Abenaki culinary heritage of Odanak. This soup mix is made from 9 varieties of beans, hominy corn, spices, and dehydrated vegetables. This staple is good to eat during the colder seasons and serves as a hearty and comforting soup that can pair well with any meat choice to enhance the taste. Enjoy the nutritious blend of Abenaki First Nation-style traditional soup and warm your taste buds.

Whitefish Moon Bear Air Freshener

From Tendesi Air Fresheners, co-founded by sisters Drew and Jennifer Tenasco from Kitigan Zibi Anishinaabeg, the Whitefish Moon Bear Air Freshener features a fresh forest scent to elevate and brighten any indoor or car space. Designed by Drew Tenasco, the air freshener displays gorgeous Anishinaabe art. Add a touch of Indigenous art into your space with the natural scents from Mother Earth with this air freshener.

Breathe Easy Soy Candle

From Ojibway Natural, founded by Nangoons Wabegijig from Ketagauseebee (Garden River) First Nation, the soy candles are hand poured and scented with lavender, eucalyptus, and peppermint essential oils. This blend is excellent for relaxation while naturally clearing airways and alleviating symptoms of cough, cold, and asthma. 

Pecan Nourishing Body Scrub

From Nuez Acres, co-founded by Anthony Wingham from the Métis Nation of British Columbia and his partner Nancy Wingham, the Pecan Nourishing Body Scrub offers deep exfoliation to reveal softer, more luminous skin. Nuez Acres’ formula uses expeller-pressed pecans to gently exfoliate and encourage new cell growth, while a blend of hydrating lemon and lavender oils rejuvenates your skin’s natural glow. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation and self-care with their Pecan Nourishing Body Scrub, and experience the ultimate in skincare luxury.

Boujee Native Lip Balm

From Sweetgrass Soap, owned by Francesca Amine from Lac Seul First Nation, this Boujee Native Lip Pointing Grease Lip Balm will nourish and protect your lips with the power of nature. Crafted using select oils and butters and added vitamin E, this premium lip balm will leave your lips moisturized and tasting like pineapples and mangos. 

Wood Eagle Keychain

From E3 Apparel, founded by Conlin McDonald from Muskeg Lake Cree Nation, this keychain features a laser printed design of an eagle and the Cree syllabic word for ‘eagle’ on a wooden coin. E3 Apparel is an initiative to promote the relearning of the Cree language through apparel. Start a conversation wherever you go with this unique eagle design.

‘Coureurs des Bois’ Birch Bark Coffee 

From Birch Bark Coffee Co., founded by Mark Marsolais-Nahwegahbow from Whitefish River First Nation, this blend of coffee is inspired by the birch trees that surround his community. Indulge in the unique, rich, and fruity flavours of ‘Coureurs des Bois’ (Wooded Runners) whole bean medium roast coffee, where every sip offers a taste that brings you back to Mother Earth and the land that inspired the coffee bean.

Pow Wow Pitch Box recipients will receive special access to three digital experiences from the following Pow Wow Pitch Alumni:

Powwow Experience

From Marmar Media, founded by Marlon Weekusk from Onion Lake Cree Nation, this video shares the rich Indigenous culture, food, dance, and celebration that happens at powwows. It offers an immersive glimpse into the vibrant traditions and communal spirit that defines these gatherings, and invites viewers to experience the joy and unity that comes with these cultural celebrations.

Documentary Film

From Reel Indian Pictures, co-founder Ramona Emerson from Tohatchi, New Mexico, shares a local, grassroots story of youth as they travel to learn from elders to bring awareness to an important issue and find ways to implement change in their own communities. Watch this powerful narrative and find ways to support positive change in your local community.

Digital Song

Alicia Kayley, a singer and songwriter from the Algonquin and Tahltan Nations, shares her voice through a captivating rendition of a Pop R&B song in Anishinaabemowin, showcasing her cultural roots in mainstream music. Experience the magic of Alicia Kayley’s voice and support her artistic journey by sharing her music.

Pre-sales for the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Box closed on June 30th. View these products at powwowpitch.org/box. 

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It’s that time of year again – the holidays are fast approaching, and you’re probably feeling the pressure to find the perfect gift for your loved ones. If you’re still searching for that last-minute present, why not consider supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs by purchasing a gift card from one of the amazing businesses that participated in the Pow Wow Pitch competition? 

We’ve partnered with Build Native with Shopify to put together a great list of 10 Pow Wow Pitch businesses you can support this holiday season! 

Kokom Scrunchies is a small business based in Kitigan Zibi that hand makes scrunchies and other products using traditional fabrics and modern Indigenous designs. Their scrunchies are not only beautiful, but also sustainable and gentle on your hair. Check out their website to browse their selection and purchase a gift card for the fashion-forward person in your life. 

Sequoia Soaps is a proudly Indigenous beauty brand inspired by our native legends and ingredients. Specializing in handmade, natural soaps and skincare products made with plant-based ingredients. Give the gift of self-care with a gift card from Sequoia Soaps.

MINI TIPI is a company that creates unique, small batch quality goods for your home and family like blankets, shawls, mitts, bags and other textiles with designs inspired Indigenous heritage. Check out their website to purchase a gift card.

JACK59 creates natural hair care products that are sustainably made and ethically sourced. Jack59 bars are paraben-free, sulfate-free and vegan with gluten-free options. Give the gift of ethical, sustainable and healthy hair nourishment with a gift card from JACK59.

Prados Beauty is an Indigenous-owned cosmetic and beauty brand that designs and crafts high-quality cosmetics, makeup brushes, lashes, and so much more. Through their Prados Promise, they are committed to supporting Indigenous communities through donations and charitable work. Give the gift of empowerment through purchasing a Prados gift card.  

Nativelovenotes creates humour-filled and ‘unapologetically rezzy’ stationary and accessories with unique and fun designs. Their cards, stickers, buttons, notebooks and mugs are perfect for any occasion and make a unique and meaningful gift. Bring a smile to your loved ones’ faces with a Nativelovenotes gift card.

Red Rebel Armour creates authentication apparel designed by Indigenous artists, made-to-order with sustainably sourced materials. Red Rebel Armour gives back by supporting reintegration from the system to the workplace. Give the gift of opportunity, impact, and Indigenous design with a Red Rebel Armour Gift Card.

Nunaaluk provides Indigenous made earrings grounded in stories of healing, sharing and creating for everyone and anyone to wear and enjoy. Give the gift of Indigenous design and stories by purchasing a Nunaaluk gift card. 

Bangin’ Bannock provides delicious Indigenous fry bread mix from passed down family recipes. Give the gift of good comfort food and Indigenous culture with a Bangin’ Bannock gift card. 

NOHO HOME a Hawaiian company providing sophisticated island experience cultivated through artful home decor. Ōlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language), ‘noho’ means to exist, to dwell or to be from. Inspired by the notions of authenticity and connection, This holiday season, consider giving the gift of expressing a sense of home through pieces that evoke cultural sensibility with a NOHO Home gift card. 

By supporting Indigenous businesses, you’ll not only be giving a thoughtful and unique gift, but you’ll also be supporting Indigenous entrepreneurship and communities. These businesses have worked hard to bring their products and services to market, and your support helps them continue to grow and thrive. 

So if you’re still looking for that perfect last-minute gift, consider purchasing a gift card from one of these amazing Indigenous businesses and give the gift of Indigenous entrepreneurship and cultural appreciation.

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Pow Wow Pitch, Canada’s premier pitch competition for emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, announced Erica Daniels, Founder and CEO of Kejic Productions as the 2023 Winner of the competition and the recipient of the Grand Prize of $25,000. 

Following a qualifying Semi-Final Round, the top 25 Indigenous entrepreneurs, from more than 2,400 applications from across Canada and the United States, went head-to-head pitching their businesses to an esteemed panel of Judges as part of the 2022 Pow Wow Pitch presented in partnership with RBC, Shopify, Meta and Mastercard. 

Hosted by Sunshine Tenasco, the creator of Pow Wow Pitch, the showdown featured entrepreneurs from nations across Turtle Island like the Mi’kmaq, Mohawk and Algonquin, Cree, Inuit, Métis and Squamish. 

The entrepreneurs pitched to an esteemed panel of Judges who scored and selected the winners. The 2022 Judges included the 2021 Pow Wow Pitch Winner Harlan Kingfisher, Founder and CEO of Smudge the Blades; Tamer Gabbour, Senior Account Manager at RBC; Carey Calder, Program Lead for North America & APAC Regions at Shopify; Debbie Reid, Indigenous Policy Manager at Meta; and Christy Buchanan, Director of Account Management at Mastercard.

MEET THE WINNERS

The First Place Prize of $25,000 presented by RBC and Shopify went to Erica Daniels, Founder & CEO of Kejic Productions, from Peguis First Nation in Manitoba. Erica’s business, Kejic Productions, is a Winnipeg-based company that creates, develops and produces films and community and corporate videos, provides event photography and marketing services, and supports Indigenous youth with on-the-job training. Watch Erica’s pitch. 

“I have always been inspired by capturing the stories of my community through video,” said the First-Place 2022 Pitch Winner Erica Daniels. “Our passionate female team of Indigenous filmmakers are creating with an authentic perspective and are amplifying Indigenous voices for cultural revitalization, education and social change.”

Erica plans to use the $25,000 to hire and train aspiring Indigenous filmmakers, purchase high-grade production equipment and move into a large studio to provide ongoing training for Indigenous youth.  

“It was so exciting to see so many people pitching and our community really thriving,” Erica goes on to say. “This is my third time pitching, so I just want to encourage everyone not to give up and to thank our community for all the support they give us. I also want to encourage Indigenous entrepreneurs to continue to take up space, use their voices, use their gifts and always support one another. We are the seventh generation breaking cycles and blazing trails for our young ones.”

The Second Place Prize of $10,000 presented by Mastercard went to Sean Rayland-Boubar, Founder of Winnipeg-based Red Rebel Armour from Sagkeeng First Nation. Red Rebel Armour is an authentic streetwear brand on a social mission to support reentry into the workforce. Watch Sean’s pitch.

“Pow Wow Pitch has given me a chance to grow as an entrepreneur and as a person, helping me get out of my comfort zone,” said Sean Rayland-Boubar. “There are so many awesome businesses out here, and I am thankful and proud of this accomplishment.”

The Third Place Prize of $5,000 presented by Meta went to Ruby Daniels, the 16-year-old Founder of 3R Innovative Imaging from One Arrow First Nation in Saskatchewan, a student-run business that repurposes old cabinet doors into one-of-a-kind art.

“You can accomplish anything when you put in the time and effort and build a strong team,” said Ruby Daniels. “We hope our success will inspire other youth following in our footsteps to become positive change makers. We want the youth to push through even if they’re scared because the best opportunities are terrifying but most rewarding.” Watch Ruby’s pitch. 

ALUMNI PRIZE RECIPIENTS

In addition to announcing the top three winners, three Finalists were also awarded Alumni Prizes of $5,000, a prize pooled together by Pow Wow Pitch Alumni who have benefited from the program and community and matched with the support of Mastercard.  

Taalrumiq Christina King, who is Taalrumiq, Inuvialuit & Gwich’in and is currently living in British Columbia, creates original Inuit fine art, Inuvialuit couture garments and accessories and offers cultural consulting services such as sewing workshops, public speaking and Inuvialuit digital content. “I want to thank my parents, community, everyone who has supported me and the team at Pow Wow Pitch for creating such a supportive and positive platform and community,” said Taalrumiq. Watch Taalrumiq’s pitch. 

Cece Meadows, the Founder and CEO of Prados Beauty, is Comanche and Yaqui from New Mexico. Prados Beauty is an inclusive and uplifting BIPOC beauty brand created to create space for Indigenous peoples throughout Turtle Island. “It is so difficult for Indigenous women-owned businesses to get funding. So to come to Pow Wow Pitch, to be honest and authentic and to be awarded an Alumni Prize is an honour,” said Cece. “This community is about spreading love and awareness, bringing Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island to the forefront, taking up space where we belong.” Watch Cece’s pitch. 

Teresa Sanders, the Métis Founder and CEO of FILL- Vernon’s Refill Store in Vernon, BC, is the third recipient of a 2022 Alumni Prize. FILL is a refill store where customers ‘fill’ their cleaning and hygiene products using their existing containers to help keep plastic out of landfills and oceans. “It is important to value and protect our earth, and I am grateful that our community in the Okanagan has embraced that. I am honoured to be part of the Pow Wow Pitch community and proud to be part of the Alumni Network,” said Teresa. “This is a great time to be an Indigenous entrepreneur with our Indigenous worldview and values of protecting our earth being valued by the masses.” 

“This year, Pow Wow Pitch returned to its roots on the powwow trail while using digital technology to engage and uplift Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “I have been blown away by the passion, resilience, impact and camaraderie of the semi-finalists, finalists and winners. The future is bright for Indigenous entrepreneurs and the Indigenous economy! Congratulations to Erica, Sean, Ruby, Taalrumiq, Cece and Teresa! Each of you displays the promise, vision and impact of Indigenous entrepreneurs, and I know you all have bright futures ahead. ”

“Congratulations to all of the Indigenous Entrepreneurship Award Winners,” said Dale Sturges, National Director for Indigenous Financial Services at RBC. “What a tremendous showcase of Indigenous entrepreneurs leading the way in innovation and creativity.”

“It was remarkable to participate in Pow Wow Pitch to watch such a talented and creative group of Indigenous entrepreneurs come together,” said Kyle St-Amour-Brennan, Build Native Indigenous Program Manager at Shopify. “Although this event has a competitive element, it was incredible to feel the energy and spirit of community and the connection between the entrepreneurs and partners. The Build Native team with Shopify has played a proud role in supporting Pow Wow Pitch, so it is exciting to see how things have grown over the years. What a great opportunity for Indigenous entrepreneurs!”

“At Meta, we are thrilled to support Indigenous businesses and entrepreneurs who are driving innovation and change in their communities,” said Debbie Reid, Indigenous Policy Manager at Meta. “Recognizing the importance of Indigenous voices and the limitless potential of Indigenous entrepreneurs is vital to the growth of the Canadian economy. We congratulate Erica Daniels, Sean, Rub and all those who participated in Pow Wow Pitch.”

“Congratulations to the 2022 Pow Wow Pitch winners!” said Sasha Krstic, President of Mastercard Canada. “At Mastercard, we know the future is brighter when Indigenous entrepreneurship is recognized, supported and celebrated. All of this year’s competitors demonstrated what it means to lead with creativity, resiliency and innovation.”

To watch the Grand Finale, click here.

To book an interview with Pow Wow Pitch Founder Sunshine Tenaco, Erica Daniels, Sean-Rayland Boubar, Ruby Daniels, Taalrumiq Christina King, Cece Meadows or Theresa Saunders, please contact hello@powwowpitch.org.

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 with respect and reciprocity as the foundation of the Pow Wow Pitch. For more information, visit https://www.powwowpitch.org/.

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On April 30, Pow Wow Pitch, North America’s premier pitch competition for Indigenous entrepreneurs, presented in partnership with RBC, Shopify, Meta and Mastercard, announced Melinda Williamson, Owner and Founder of Morning Light Kombucha from the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, as the 2022 Pow Wow Pitch Gathering of Nations Winner. Melinda has won $1,000 and is advancing to the Finals for a chance to win $25,000 to grow her business.

More than 30 Indigenous entrepreneurs from across North America pitched their businesses live at the Gathering of Nations in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on April 30th for their chance to win cash prizes and advance to the Pow Wow Pitch Finals. 

“The experience was unbelievable,” said Melinda William, Founder of Morning Light Kombucha. “To finally travel again, meet so many entrepreneurs I look up to, and sell at the Gathering of Nations was incredible. But the cherry on top of it all was that I won first place at Pow Wow Pitch! I am beyond grateful and feel so much love from everyone in the Indigenous community.”

Melinda’s business, Morning Light Kombucha, is a Native American and female-owned, small-batch kombucha company located in Hoyt, Kansas, which prides itself on sourcing from local farmers, harvesting their own ingredients, and giving back to Indigenous communities.

Melinda hopes to win the grand prize to buy a canning line to continue to expand her business. 

“Since the pandemic, our business has exploded across Kansas and ‘Indian country’ with our hand-canned line,” said Melinda. “If we were to win the $25K, we would buy a canning line to get more Kombucha into Native hands and grow our impact.”

Winning the second-place $750 prize was Cece Meadows, Founder and CEO of Prados Beauty and the third-place $500 winner went to Dan Simonds, Founder of Wampum Wear. Cece, Dan and all those who pitched in Albuquerque are still in the running for the 2022 Pow Wow Pitch and will find out in July if they will advance to the semi-finals.

“Congratulations to Melinda on her Gold Ticket win to advance to the 2022 Pow Wow Pitch Finals,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “Morning Light Kombucha is an incredible business leading by example. We look forward to spotlighting and sharing Melinda’s business with the Pow Wow Pitch community and growing together.” 

Indigenous entrepreneurs from across Canada and the United States are invited to submit their 1-minute pitch to qualify for Pow Wow Pitch before June 21, 2022, at powwowpitch.org/pitch to win $200,000 in prizes from $500 to $25,000. 

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