On September 6th, 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 Tanis Simpson, the Inuvialuit & Gwich’in Founder of Qiviut Inc., a business based in Nisku, Alberta, as the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Consumer Products & Retail Semi-Final Winner. Tanis has won $1,000 and is advancing to the Grand Finale for a chance to win $25,000 to grow her 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.

Last night, twelve Consumer Products & Retail Semi-Finalists had the opportunity to pitch their organizations and community initiatives in one-minute for their chance to win an industry prize and advance as a finalist.

Judges included Tom Montaruli, Director of Indigenous Financial Services at RBC; Niree Perian, Director of Content & SEO at Shopify; Kevin Chun, Manager of Loyalty Product and Program Management at Mastercard; and Mélanie Bernard, Co-Founder and Co-Owner of MINI TIPI.

“It can be intimidating to get started as an entrepreneur, but the one thing you need to know is that there is so much support available,” shared Tanis Simpson, Founder of Qiviut Inc. “The community of Indigenous entrepreneurs is extremely generous and I have found so many people willing to share knowledge and guidance along the way. If you are struggling or facing obstacles, there is guaranteed to be someone out there – whether an individual or an organization prioritizing mentorship, like Pow Wow Pitch – who is willing to help you!”

Qiviut Inc. is an Inuvialuit-owned business based in Nisku, Alberta, rooted in the traditional knowledge of harvesting qiviut (muskox fibre), and now manufactures and produces high-quality qiviut yarns and knitwear. Founder, Tanis Simpson, is proud to carry on the traditions that have kept her family warm for future generations. Tanis prides her company on being Inuit-owned and gives back by creating opportunities for muskox hunters that provide for their families.

Tanis pitched to win funds to purchase the necessary equipment for their mill that will help them save money to provide job opportunities for Indigenous people in the arctic. 

“I would like to thank the entire team at Qiviut Inc., without you none of this would be possible,” expressed Tanis. “Thank you to my amazing mentors and the Pow Wow Pitch team for the amazing advice and opportunity!”

The judges congratulate Tanis on a job well done and for her brilliant vision, efforts to strive for sustainability, and initiative to create job opportunities in the arctic.

“Congratulations Tanis on your Semi-Final win and for advancing to the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “Tanis is a true role model for carrying on family traditions into a thriving business rooted in the cultural knowledge and heritage of her northern community. We love seeing cultural knowledge and practices preserved for generations to come. We look forward to spotlighting Tanis and sharing more about Qiviut Inc. with the Pow Wow Pitch community and growing our impact together.” 

Alongside selecting a winner, the judges also acknowledge the Runner Up for the Consumer Products & Retail industry category. Amanda Bernard, Founder of Shawish Market, was recognized for her clear value proposition, enthusiasm, and storytelling presentation. The judges would like to applaud her on a bright future and are eager to watch her path to success.

“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 Tanis on advancing to the next round.”

To watch Tanis’s winning pitch, click here. To watch the Consumer Products & Retail Semi-Final episode, click here.

Tanis 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, North America’s premier pitch competition for emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, presented in partnership with RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard, announced Ashley Michel, Founder and Owner of 4 Generations Creations, as the 2023 Pow Wow Pitch Winner and the recipient of the Grand Prize of $25,000. 

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

Following a qualifying Semi-Final Round, the top 30 Indigenous entrepreneurs, from more than 2,000 applications from across Turtle Island, went head-to-head pitching their businesses to an esteemed panel of Judges who scored and selected the winners.

The 2023 Judges included the 2021 Pow Wow Pitch Winner Harlan Kingfisher, Founder and CEO of Smudge the Blades; the 2022 Pow Wow Pitch Winner Erica Daniels, Founder and CEO of Kejic Productions; Tamer Gabbour, Senior Account Manager at RBC; Kyle Brennan Shàwinipinesì, Build Native Program Lead at Shopify; and Christy Buchanan, Director of Account Management at Mastercard.

MEET THE WINNERS

The First Place Prize of $25,000 presented by RBC went to Ashley Michel, Founder & Owner of 4 Generations Creations, from Secwempc Nation in British Columbia. Ashley’s business, 4 Generations Creations, is a marketplace based in Kamloops, British Columbia for authentic Indigenous fabrics, materials, art and aims to create designs that educate others about Indigenous issues & resiliency. Watch Ashley’s pitch. 

“I chose to pitch again this year because I want a better future for my daughter and the generations to come,” said the 2023 First-Place Winner, Ashley Michel. “No obstacle is too big to overcome if you believe in yourself. I want the youth to see all of us succeed and realize that they could do that one day too.”

Ashley plans to use the $25,000 to purchase her own direct to garner machine to bring her production in-house and in turn, open opportunities to hire a team from her community.

“I am honoured to have been selected as the Pow Wow Pitch First Place Winner – this is absolutely life changing!” said Ashley. “I am excited to see the impact my business will have on our community to creating jobs for youth and providing authentic and accessible apparel for everyone. I want to thank everyone who has taken time to listen to my story and follow my journey so far. I also want to thank my mentors, community, & fellow artists/entrepreneurs for their mutual ongoing support. I also want to thank Pow Wow Pitch for providing this amazing opportunity for all of us!”

The Second Place Prize of $10,000 presented by Mastercard went to Alana Cook, Co-founder and MMA Coach of Walking Like Warriors from the Métis Nation of Alberta. Walking Like Warriors is a self-defence course based in St. Catharines, Ontario that teaches women and youth how to stay safe and boost confidence through inclusive, and culturally safe workshops. Alana’s motivation to help others embody the passion of a true warrior is nourishing the next generation of empowered youth. Watch Alana’s pitch.

“Winning second place in Pow Wow Pitch is an incredible gift,” said the 2023 Second-Place Winner, Alana Cook. “I hope to inspire other Métis women and girls to dream big, fight hard, and believe in themselves.”

The Third Place Prize of $5,000 presented by Shopify went to Jodie Moonie, the Founder and Owner of Muusa, from Timiskaming First Nation. Muusa is an Indigenous- and women-owned scrub apparel brand based in Notre Dame Du Nord, Quebec that combines the beauty of traditional design with the functionality of healthcare wear. Watch Jodie’s pitch.

“Winning Third Place has allowed me to gain so much confidence in myself as an entrepreneur,” said the 2023 Third-Place Winner, Jodie Moonie. “Public speaking has never been one of my strengths. I pushed through my fear when I pitched to the judges and I’m so happy that I did. We are capable of far more than we think and can do anything we put our minds to!”

ALUMNI PRIZE RECIPIENTS

In addition to announcing the top three winners, five Finalists were also awarded Alumni Prizes of $5,000, prize funds provided  by Alumni who have benefited from the program and matched with the support of Mastercard. The Alumni Prize was presented by Pow Wow Pitch Alumni; Harlan Kingfisher, Bernice Clarke, Matthew Nadee, Amy Jackson and Sean Rayland-Boubar.

Ten-year old Simon Monteith, also known as Simon the Scientist, is Opaskwayak Cree and lives in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Simon creates educational Youtube videos teaching kids about the different landscapes of STEM combined with cultural significance. “I am super excited to win this prize! It feels awesome to be recognized knowing that people like to watch my videos and support Simon the Scientist,” said Simon. “I have met so many great Indigenous role models.” Watch Simon’s pitch.

Shay Dekock-Kruger the Founder and CEO of HOLO EYES, is from the Penticton Indian Band in British Columbia. HOLO EYES is an eye makeup and stickers brand that specializes in elevating eye looks at festivals and powwows. “My business has been a super fun way for me to express my creativity while also creating fun experiences for others,” said Shay. “I think my biggest lesson that I’ve learned since being an entrepreneur is to not overthink things, keep pushing forward and you will eventually find success.” Watch Shay’s pitch.

Desiree Streit, the Founder of Friday.Night.Beading.Club, is Cree, Ojibwey, and Métis and lives in Gatineau, Quebec. Desiree is the inventor of her brand’s original ‘BOO-zhee Boards’, an innovative storage accessory and system for beading that allows its users to take beading everywhere, with ease. “Winning this prize means everything to me,” shares Desiree. “It’s hard to explain where I was even a year ago to where I am now, mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I am so grateful for this opportunity, and I cannot thank Pow Wow Pitch and my mentors enough!” Watch Desiree’s Pitch.

Tanis Simpson, Founder and CEO of Qiviut Inc, is Inuvialuit and lives in Nisku, Alberta. Qiviut Inc. manufactures qiviut yarns and knit wear from the traditional knowledge of qiviut fibre harvesting and muskox hunting. “It means so much to receive this recognition–not only for myself, but on behalf of my whole team, because this wouldn’t have been possible without them,” said Tanis. “We have all worked so hard, and we’ve faced no shortage of challenges, but winning the Alumni Prize tells us that we’re on the right path and that we should keep it up!” Watch Tanis’s pitch.

Jordan Smith, Founder and CEO of Renterii, is from the Red River Métis Nation and lives in Toronto, Ontario. Renterii is a rental share app that allows its users to rent everyday items with convenience. “It makes me beyond proud to have won the Alumni Prize!” said Jordan. “The Pow Wow Pitch community has been one of the first to believe in me as an entrepreneur, and I can’t wait to join the other Alumni in continuing to inspire folks to build the next million-dollar Indigenous idea.” Watch Jordan’s pitch.

“This year, Pow Wow Pitch grew its impact on the powwow trail by reaching more communities and  Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “Every step taken by our semi-finalists, finalists, and winners shines with determination. The future is bright for Indigenous entrepreneurs and the Indigenous economy! Congratulations to Ashley, Alana, Jodie, Simon, Shay, Desiree, Jordan, and Tanis! You all embody the spirit and promise of Indigenous entrepreneurship. I look forward to following your journeys ahead, well done!”

“Pow Wow Pitch is a tremendous showcase of Indigenous innovation and entrepreneurship, and the stories and achievements of this year’s semi-finalists are a testament to their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit,” said Michael Ferencich, Senior Vice President, Business Financial Services, RBC. “We’re so proud of all our participants and semi-finalists, and we will continue to support their growth and success in the future.”

“Being involved in Pow Wow Pitch is not just an honor, it’s a privilege to witness the creativity and innovation of Indigenous entrepreneurs,” said Kyle Brennan Shàwinipinesì, Build Native Program Manager 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!”

“At Mastercard, we’ve been inspired by the innovative thinking and solutions brought forward by all the Indigenous entrepreneurs involved in this year’s Pow Wow Pitch,” said Sasha Krstic, President of Mastercard Canada. “The future is brighter when Indigenous entrepreneurship is recognized, supported and celebrated, and we are honoured to play a role in continued success and growth of these entrepreneurs. Congratulations to all the pitchers and congratulations to Ashley, Alana, and Jodie on winning the 2023 Pow Wow Pitch.”

To watch the Grand Finale, click here.

To book an interview with Pow Wow Pitch Founder Sunshine Tenaco, Ashley Michel, Alana Cook, Jodie Moonie, Simon Monteith, Shay Dekock- Kruger, Desiree Streit, Jordan Smith, or Tanis Simpson, 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 September 7, Pow Wow Pitch, North America’s premier pitch competition for Indigenous entrepreneurs, presented in partnership with RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard, announced three winners of the Consumer Semi-Final category:

• Consumer Bath, Body and Beauty Winner: Shay Dekock-Kruger, the Penticton Indian Band Founder of HOLO EYES from Penticton, British Columbia. 
• Consumer Retail Winner: Chelsee Pettit, the Aamjiwnaang Founder of aaniin retail inc. from Tkaronto, Ontario.
• Consumer Products Winner: Tanis Simpson, the Inuvialuit Founder of Qiviut Inc. from Nisku, Alberta.

Each winner has won $1,000 and is advancing to the Finals for a chance to win $25,000 to grow their businesses.

More than 2,000 Indigenous entrepreneurs from across 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 Finals. From the 2,000 applicants, 130 were selected as Semi-Finalists and provided with training and mentorship to prepare for their semi-final pitch to the Judges.

Last night, Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch, emceed the action-packed program, where the fifteen Consumer Semi-Finalists had the opportunity to pitch their business ideas and businesses in one minute for their chance to win. 

Judges included Eric Turner, Vice President, Business Markets, Greater Toronto Region at RBC; Sean Myomi Hougan, Head of Revenue & Operations at Aurora Heat; Amisha Parikh, VP Product Management and Loyalty at Mastercard; Pam Devonshire, Business Development Manager ecommerce and Parcels at Canada Post; and Meagan Francis, Senior Advisor of Working Capital Solutions at EDC.

Consumer Bath, Body and Beauty Semi-Final Spotlight

“I decided to pitch again this year because my business [HOLO EYES] is now in a better position to scale and launch into other global markets,” said the 2023 Consumer Bath, Body and Beauty Pow Wow Pitch Winner Shay Dekock-Kruger, Founder of HOLO EYES. “It’s proven to be a successful business model through organic sales on Amazon. My business has also been a super fun way for me to express my creativity while also creating fun experiences for others.”

HOLO EYES is an eye makeup and stickers brand that specializes in boosting eye looks at festivals and powwows. HOLO EYES is making waves on social media through their popularity with festival goers.“I hope that my business can be an example to other Indigenous people to show that you can turn a creative idea into a business,” said Shay.

Click here to watch Shay Dekock-Kruger’s winning pitch.

The tied Runners Up for the Consumer Bath, Body and Beauty Semi-Final were Marissa Dube, Founder of Eiralize Lashes and Tanya Gluvakov, Founder of Roots + Raven. 

Consumer Retail Semi-Final Spotlight

“I was inspired [to apply for Pow Wow Pitch] having seen the number of businesses that have been elevated by the program firsthand,” said the 2023 Consumer Retail Winner Chelsee Pettit, Founder of aaniin retail inc. “Now that aaniin has made so many strides over the past year, I couldn’t wait to share them with the Pow Wow Pitch audience and community!”

aaniin retail inc is a street wear brand and main-street retail space with a vision and concept to become a high-street retail chain in major shopping centres across Canada. aaniin retail inc has a vision to create more opportunities for Indigenous business and youth to grow and scale impact together. Chelsee projects her values into her company with her values of community, collaboration, and connection. “Our mission is to reclaim the Indigenous economy through fashion and commerce,” said Chelsee.

“This year, our biggest focus is on growing our e-commerce platform and building capacity as we ready for a very busy Black Friday and holiday season,” said the 2023 Consumer Retail Winner Chelsee Pettit, Founder of aaniin retail inc. “We have big things planned for our customers and these stages are crucial for our planned national retail growth.”

Click here to watch Chelsee Pettit’s winning pitch.

The tied Runners Up for the Consumer Retail Semi-Finals were Jenna Valiquette, Founder of Eagle Woman Prints and Frances Edwards, Founder of La Petite Serre. 

Consumer Products Semi-Final Spotlight

“I decided to pitch again because I had an amazing experience last year and the Pow Wow Pitch team is so great to work with,” said the 2023 Consumer Products Winner Tanis Simpson, Founder of Qiviut Inc. “They are empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs to achieve their dreams and are providing valuable information and mentorship to help us grow not only our business but ourselves. Also I couldn’t pass up the chance of possibly winning $25,000 for the Qiviut Inc team!” 

Qiviut Inc. is an Inuvialuit-owned business based in Nisku, Alberta, rooted in the traditional knowledge of qiviut fibre harvesting and muskox hunting that is now manufacturing high-quality qiviut yarns and knitwear. Founder, Tanis Simpson, is proud to carry on the traditions that have kept her family warm for future generations. Tanis prides her company on being Inuit-owned and gives back by creating opportunities for muskox hunters that provide for their families. “With support from Pow Wow Pitch, we can create more jobs for our communities and purchase more equipment to fulfill our orders,” Tanis shared in her pitch.

Click here to watch Tanis Simpson’s winning pitch.

The Runner Up for the Consumer Products Semi-Final was Lawrence Crowfoot, Founder of Crowfoot Collective.

“Congratulations to Shay, Chelsea, and Tanis on Winning the 2023 Consumer Semi-Finals and for advancing to the  Finals,” said Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch. “We love seeing Indigenous brands and products on store shelves and taking up retail space across Turtle Island– it is ‘Land Back’ through entrepreneurship and you are leading the growth of the Indigenous economy! We are so proud of you. Congratulations also to all of the Consumer Semi-Finalists, you were all so great – keep going! The world needs your businesses to keep thriving!”

“Pow Wow Pitch is a tremendous showcase of Indigenous innovation and entrepreneurship, and the stories and achievements of this year’s semi-finalists are a testament to their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit,” said Michael Ferencich, Senior Vice President, Business Financial Services, RBC. “We’re so proud of all our participants and semi-finalists, and we will continue to support their growth and success in the future.”

“Being involved in Pow Wow Pitch is not just an honor, it’s a privilege to witness the creativity and innovation of Indigenous entrepreneurs,” said Kyle Brennan Shàwinipinesì, Build Native Program Manager 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!”

“At Mastercard, we’ve been inspired by the innovative thinking and solutions brought forward by all the Indigenous entrepreneurs involved in this year’s Pow Wow Pitch,” said Sasha Krstic, President of Mastercard in Canada. “The future is brighter when Indigenous entrepreneurship is recognized, supported and celebrated, and we are honoured to play a role in continued success and growth of these entrepreneurs. Congratulations to all the pitchers and congratulations to Rachael Hunt on advancing to the next round.”

To watch the 2023 Pow Wow Pitch Consumer Brand and Retail Semi-Final, click here. 

Shay, Chelsee, and Tanis will now all advance to the Pow Wow Pitch Finals to pitch for the Grand Prize of $25,000, which broadcasts online on October 19th. Visit www.powwowpitch.org for more information.

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