Anthony Theriault, a Tech 4 Youth Grant recipient and 2025 Pow Wow Pitch Semi-Finalist, is the co-founder of eleven59 and a member of the Red River Métis. Through eleven59, he is helping students take control of their academic lives with a platform built by students, for students. Based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Anthony and his team developed eleven59 to tackle a challenge all students face; staying organized amid the demands of school, work, and life.

“Everyone was juggling so much, and it felt like there had to be a better way,” Anthony explains. Eleven59 is an application designed to help students manage their coursework more effectively. It automatically extracts due dates, assignments, and exams from course syllabi and adds them to students’ calendars. From there, it generates a personalized, optimized study plan, helping students stay on top of their work and reduce stress.

“What I’m most proud of is that we took that shared problem and turned it into something tangible, building a tool that helps students feel more in control,” Anthony says. He’s proud to have transformed a shared challenge into a meaningful, practical solution.

Anthony’s biggest lesson from launching eleven59 is simple but powerful: just take action. He stresses that you don’t need to have everything figured out to get started. “Getting started is the most challenging step, but it’s also the most crucial. Ask for help when you need it, and keep moving forward,” he says.

Recent technology upgrades, thanks to the Tech 4 Youth Grant and Best Buy Canada, are helping the team take eleven59 to the next level. Anthony received an Apple iPhone 16 Pro and Apple MacBook Pro to complete the development of their application and make it accessible to Apple product users. Additionally, he received a mirrorless camera to begin documenting their journey to share eleven59’s story to students everywhere.

Anthony offers advice for other young entrepreneurs: “You are your own expert in your business. Nobody knows your idea, your passion, or your community better than you. Trust that, and don’t be afraid to take the first step.”

Programs like Pow Wow Pitch have also helped share eleven59’s story, giving Anthony and his co-founder, Todd de Groot, a platform to showcase their work and expand their reach. With determination, innovation, and community support, Anthony is proving how student-led solutions can make a meaningful difference.

Explore Anthony’s journey with eleven59 here. Learn more about the Tech 4 Youth Program here.

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On Saturday, May 17, 2025, Pow Wow Pitch, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs, co-presented by RBC and Mastercard, and with local presenting partners Red River College Polytech (RRCP) Mittohnee Pogo’ohtah and North Forge, announced Tannis and Rayel Smoke, Co-Founders of Niña Waṡte Events, from the Dakota Plains Wahpeton Oyate as the 2025 Manito Ahbee Pow Wow Pitch Winner. The First Nations-owned business has won $5,000 for their business and will advance to the 2025 Pow Wow Pitch Grand Finale where they will get the chance to win the grand prize of $25,000.

On Saturday, 28 Indigenous entrepreneurs pitched their businesses live at the Manito Ahbee Festival in Winnipeg, Manitoba, for their chance to win cash prizes to advance their businesses.

Host Sunshine Tenasco, Founder & Chair of Pow Wow Pitch, emceed the action-packed program, where Indigenous entrepreneurs had the opportunity to pitch their business ideas and businesses in one-minute for their chance to win prizes and support to make their dreams a reality.  

Following a first-round open pitch on the morning of Saturday, May 17th, judges Kai Lee, Portfolio Manager at RBC; Jordan Smith, Program Specialist of Indigenous Entrepreneurs at Futurpreneur; Robert Larnyoh, Social Media and Marketing Coordinator at North Forge; and Darion Ducharme, Founder & Owner of Teqare shortlisted the ‘Top 10’ entrepreneurs to advance to round two. 

To commemorate the 10th anniversary of Pow Wow Pitch, all participants who pitched at Manito Ahbee this year were automatically entered into a special 10-Year Anniversary Raffle for a chance to win one of 10 laptops and 10 phones. The winners were announced during the Top 10 Finalist reveal and celebrated in partnership with the Manito Ahbee community. All laptops and phones were generously donated by Mastercard in support of Indigenous entrepreneurs.

Those who received a free laptop were: Jessica Clemons of Beading the Red Road, Jessica Lavelle of Trail Creations, Alexei Letendre of Indigenously, Kaitlyn Anderson of Pink Fox Mobile Food Shop, Chantel Henderson of Ceremony Bus, Lindsey Brown of Whirling Rainbow Alchemy, Donavan Robinson of Pop CoLab, Harold Childsforever-Angeconeb of Burning Arrow Archery, April Bell of Collided Creation, and Richard Wuttunee of RYP Mechanical Inc.

Those who received a free phone were: Sonia Stevens of PD Agency, Tannis Smoke of Niña Waṡte Events, Sunday Queskekapow of Kíwétinohk Consulting, Darcie Bonwick of Contain your Excitement, Natasha WhiteBear of Eastern Doorway Lodge, Sherrisse Morriseau of Indigi Queen Designs, Deanne Sutherland of Under the Night Sky Creations, Roseanne Top of Topp Escapes Adventures, Ken Swampy of Winnipeg River Indigenous Shoreline Museum, and Rayel Smoke of Niña Waṡte Events.

The Top 10 were paired up with mentors from  RBC, Futurpreneur, Best Buy Canada, Kejic Productions, Teqare, and Ashley Richard & Associates Inc., to help them polish their presentations before they pitched one last time to judges: Amy Jackson, Director of Mittohnee Pogo’ohtah; Katelyn Lawson, Relationship Manager of Commercial Financial Services of Indigenous Markets at RBC; Noah Wilson, Senior Business Development Manager of Indigenous Entrepreneur Start-up Program at Futurpreneur; Sumeet Singh, Manager at Best Buy Canada; and Paige Lounsbury, Relationship Manager at EDC.

The 1st Place $5,000 Prize Winners were Tanis and Rayel Smoke from Dakota Plains First Nation, Co-Founders of Niña Waṡte Events, a vibrant Indigenous-owned game rental company reimagining the world of board games through an Indigenous lens. By redesigning popular games to center Indigenous people, culture, and language, they’re creating fun and inclusive entertainment—but also powerful tools for cultural education and community connection. Tannis and Rayel shared during their pitch that they plan to use the funds to grow their team, secure dedicated warehouse space, and expand their unique collection of culturally infused games.

“This experience has been amazing,” shared Rayel Smoke. “To any entrepreneurs out there that are thinking about doing Pow Wow Pitch, one thing I’d like to say is networking is key. Always put yourself out there and go to events, let people know who you are, and share your business. It’s all a part of the journey.”

“My experience today has been so beautiful and we have met so many amazing entrepreneurs,” shared Tannis Smoke. “My advice is to never give up. If you have the opportunity to go to events where you can hear fellow entrepreneurs, please go. Seeing our people make it is what gives you that extra push and that’s what happened for us.”

Tannis and Rayel were also selected by Robert Larnyoh to receive the North Forge Prize of a 1-Year Membership to their Fabrication Lab to create new game prototypes and receive mentorship.

The 2nd Place $2,500 Prize Winner was Harold Childsforever-Angeconeb from Lac Seul First Nation, Founder of Burning Arrow Archery, an archery league dedicated to bringing the traditional knowledge of archery back to Indigenous communities by providing workshops, training, and high quality equipment to conduct programming. Harold is a North American Indigenous Games athlete and is a lifelong archery coach with years of experience mentoring youth. Harold shared in his pitch that he would use the funds to sponsor three new Indigenous communities with his programming to facilitate workshop opportunities to Indigenous youth and keep the traditions alive for the next generation.

“Pow Wow Pitch was an awesome experience and I really enjoyed having the opportunity to share my vision and dream with so many like-minded individuals,” shared Harold Childsforever-Angeconeb. “It was so nerve-wracking to speak in the first round but I was so grateful to have the opportunity to clean up my pitch and present my business in the second round. My advice to other Indigenous entrepreneurs out there is to take advantage of all the opportunities and resources that are out there. Do something that you enjoy and be determined!”

The 3rd Place $1,000 Prize Winner was Deeanne Sutherland-First Charger from Woodland Cree First Nation, Founder of Under The Night Sky Creations, a handmade Indigenous design brand that specializes in ribbon skirts, jackets, hoodies, and ribbon apparel making workshops. Deeanne is deeply motivated by the traditional knowledge of ribbon skirt making after the passing of her sister and has become a popular name on the powwow trail due to the beautiful craftsmanship of her skirts. Deeanne shared in her pitch that she plans to continue to pass on her self-taught knowledge through ribbon skirt making workshops and plans to use her funds to acquire sewing machines.

“Winning today has been an honour and I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to do my Pow Wow Pitch,” shared Deeanne Sutherland-First Charger. “It was completely unexpected but so rewarding. I would encourage anyone to try to put your business out there and just go for it.”

The Fan Favourite $500 Prize Winner was Conroy Provost from Piikani Nation, Founder of Blackfoot Made Productions, a cultural and language revitalization production company. Conroy is an experienced educator and filmmaker and pitched to win funds to invest in a Cree language documentary for Indigenous youth and young adults.

“Doing the Pow Wow Pitch was such a surprise,” shared Conroy Provost. “It was a wonderful experience to get to listen to other creators and business people. It was a wonderful opportunity and I was so grateful to be chosen as this year’s Fan Favourite. I would encourage anyone, even if you don’t have a plan or just an idea, to pull on that thread and see what comes out. You never know what happens if you shoot for the stars.”

“Congratulations to the outstanding winners of this year’s Manito Ahbee Pow Wow Pitch. Your passion and dedication is lighting the path forward for Indigenous entrepreneurship,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “It’s inspiring to see how each of you are using business as a vehicle for cultural pride, economic empowerment, and community impact. You’ve shown that when we lead with our values and share our stories, we create space for future generations to dream big. Miigwech to all 28 pitchers who showed up Saturday and chose courage over comfort to pitch — your bravery and brilliance made this day unforgettable.”

“Congratulations to Niña Waṡte Events on being named this year’s Pow Wow Pitch winner at the 2025 Manito Ahbee Festival!” said Lisa Meeches, Executive Director of the Manito Ahbee Festival. “As we celebrate 20 years of Indigenous excellence, it’s especially meaningful to honour a business so deeply rooted in family, language, and culture. Niña Waṡte Events is more than an event company; we hear that it’s a love letter to Indigenous creativity, kinship, and the spirit of entrepreneurship that has always existed in our Nations. Tannis and Rayel, you are lighting the path forward with joy, innovation, and Dakota and Ojibwe pride. To all of this year’s pitchers, your courage and vision remind us that our stories, our languages, and our business models are vital to the future. Thank you to Pow Wow Pitch for continuing to elevate Indigenous entrepreneurs and help our communities thrive across Turtle Island. Good luck to everyone in their business endeavours.” 

All those who pitched will be welcomed into the Pow Wow Pitch community and gain access to a free Indigenous Startup Program, have the opportunity to have their products and services be considered to be featured in the annual Pow Wow Pitch Box, and will receive a free .CA domain courtesy of CIRA.

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Mittohnee Pogo’ohtah is RRC Polytech’s new Indigenous entrepreneurship acceleration and incubator initiative that is the first of its kind to cultivate a space in Winnipeg for technology, collaboration, and community. Mittohnee helps Indigenous students start their own businesses as they graduate out of RRC Polytech’s entrepreneurship-based Social Innovation and Community Development program. It does so by connecting them with a network of resources and expertise focused on process, people, and leveraging existing capacity.

As the local presenting partner of the Manito Ahbee Pow Wow Pitch, Mittohnee will present the 1st Place Prize of $5,000 to the winning entrepreneur, engage as a final round judge, and provide community mentors to help entrepreneurs refine their pitch.

“This partnership between Mittohnee Pogo’ohtah and Pow Wow Pitch marks a full circle moment for me as both a proud alumna and long-time supporter of Pow Wow Pitch,” said Amy Jackson, Director of Mittohnee Pogo’ohtah. “Pow Wow Pitch’s mission to uplift and champion Indigenous entrepreneurs deeply aligns with Mittohnee’s vision to create space, support, and opportunity for our people to thrive through innovation and business. Together, we’re not just accelerating ideas—we’re building a future grounded in culture, community, and economic empowerment.”

“Collaboration is key to expanding support for Indigenous entrepreneurs,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch. “We’re excited to be partnering with Mittohnee Pogo’ohtah, led by Pow Wow Pitch alumna Amy Jackson—an inspiring champion for community and Indigenous entrepreneurship. Together, we are strengthening our impact across Manitoba by combining our efforts to provide meaningful support, mentorship, and opportunities for the next generation of Indigenous business leaders.”

By working together, Pow Wow Pitch and Mittohnee Pogo’ohtah are forging a path for Indigenous entrepreneurs to start, excel, and accomplish more for our communities.

About Pow Wow Pitch

Pow Wow Pitch is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting and funding early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island, with the co-presenting support of Mastercard and RBC. Our vision is to create a world where Indigenous entrepreneurs thrive, feeling supported, safe, and encouraged to develop their ideas and build businesses that create a positive cycle of growth. With a mission to provide resources and mentorship, we empower Indigenous entrepreneurs while amplifying their stories to inspire future generations and foster a more inclusive world.

For more information, visit powwowpitch.org.

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North Forge is a not-for-profit startup incubator, accelerator, and home to one of North America’s largest publicly accessible fabrication labs (FabLab™). Driven by community and collaboration, North Forge creates inclusive spaces where entrepreneurs can innovate, build, and scale. Through tailored programs, expert mentorship, and access to cutting-edge tools and technologies, they empower founders from all backgrounds to turn bold ideas into thriving businesses. Rooted in inclusivity, support, and ethical leadership, North Forge is committed to building a stronger and more diverse innovation ecosystem, one startup at a time.

As part of the partnership, North Forge will provide an Indigenous entrepreneur participating in the Manito Ahbee Pow Wow Pitch with a 1-year membership to their Fabrication Lab, a prize valued at $1,980.

“At North Forge, we believe in the transformative impact of entrepreneurship on communities. We are honoured to partner with Pow Wow Pitch and support this year’s Manito Ahbee Pow Wow Pitch,” said Dana Driedger, Director of Marketing and Strategic Initiatives at North Forge. “Empowering entrepreneurs is central to our mission, and we are proud to support Indigenous innovators as they grow their ideas into thriving businesses. Together we’re building a more inclusive innovation ecosystem that celebrates culture, drives economic growth, and creates lasting impact within the Indigenous community.”

“Collaboration is key to expanding support for Indigenous entrepreneurs,” said Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch.  “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with North Forge for the Manito Ahbee Pow Wow Pitch, working together to provide more resources and create new opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs across Manitoba.”

By working alongside Pow Wow Pitch, North Forge is contributing to a growing movement that empowers and supports Indigenous entrepreneurship.

About Pow Wow Pitch

Pow Wow Pitch is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting and funding early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island, with the co-presenting support of Mastercard and RBC. Our vision is to create a world where Indigenous entrepreneurs thrive, feeling supported, safe, and encouraged to develop their ideas and build businesses that create a positive cycle of growth. With a mission to provide resources and mentorship, we empower Indigenous entrepreneurs while amplifying their stories to inspire future generations and foster a more inclusive world.

For more information, visit powwowpitch.org.

About North Forge

North Forge is a not-for-profit tech incubator, accelerator, and state-of-the-art fabrication lab. They fuel Manitoba’s innovative science-based, technology-enabled, and advanced manufacturing startups from ideation to funding by offering unparalleled programming and resources to help startups grow. Their facilities boast one of North America’s largest publicly accessible fabrication labs (FabLab™), where startups have access to cutting-edge tools and technologies.

For more information, visit northforge.ca.

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Pow Wow Pitch, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs, co-presented by Mastercard and RBC, proudly announces its continued partnership with the Manito Ahbee Festival. This year, Pow Wow Pitch and the Manito Ahbee Festival come together to celebrate Indigenous entrepreneurship while marking two significant milestones: Pow Wow Pitch’s 10th anniversary and the Manito Ahbee Festival’s 20th anniversary. Taking place in Treaty 1 Territory – Winnipeg, Manitoba on May 17, 2025.

The Manito Ahbee Festival, held May 16-18, 2025 at the Red River Exhibition Park, celebrates Indigenous arts, culture, and music, featuring new events and partnerships. As part of the Manito Ahbee Festival’s 20 Year Anniversary Celebration, attendees can expect a dynamic pitch competition, networking, and an opportunity to support and invest in Indigenous-owned businesses. This partnership not only honours tradition but also propels Indigenous entrepreneurs forward, ensuring that culture and economics go hand in hand. 

This year’s incredible lineup of events celebrating Indigenous culture and heritage makes Manito Ahbee the perfect place to showcase your business. 

How It Works

To enter, vendors, attendees and entrepreneurs can pre-register for limited spots here: powwowpitch.org/manito-ahbee, with a few spots reserved on the lottery for those who just turn up and want to showcase their business. To pitch, entrepreneurs will have 1-minute to present their ideas or businesses for a chance to win! 

The top 10 pitchers will be paired with mentors to refine their final pitch before presenting to the judges and will also advance to the Turtle Island Semi-Finals where they will have another chance to pitch for the $25,000 Grand Prize. Prizes at Manito Ahbee include $5,000 for 1st place, $2,500 for 2nd place, $1,000 for 3rd place, $500 for the Youth prize, and $500 for the Fan Favourite. The 1st place winner will also receive a Golden Ticket to the Turtle Island Finale. 

In addition, North Forge will award a one-year membership to their Fabrication Lab—valued at $1,980—to an Indigenous entrepreneur at the Manito Ahbee Pow Wow Pitch.

Beyond awarding prizes to Indigenous entrepreneurs, the collaboration with the Manito Ahbee Festival strengthens the Indigenous community and empowers entrepreneurs to thrive. Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, shares her excitement: “As Pow Wow Pitch celebrates its 10th anniversary, we are thrilled to celebrate alongside the Manito Ahbee Festival as they mark 20 years of honouring Indigenous culture and excellence. Together, we’re uplifting and supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs, igniting the spirit of innovation, and creating opportunities for this generation while inspiring the next.”

“Manito Ahbee has always been a space for Indigenous excellence and cultural celebration. By partnering with Pow Wow Pitch, we are honouring our legacy of Indigenous economy. For two decades, the Manito Ahbee Festival has been a gathering place where we share our stories, and uplift our people. We are proud to collaborate with Pow Wow Pitch to support Indigenous entrepreneurs in Manitoba and beyond. This partnership represents the strength of our community and celebrates the power of Indigenous innovation.” said Lisa Meeches, Executive Director of the Manito Ahbee Festival. 

Join us at the Manito Ahbee Festival and pitch your business to win cash prizes of up to $5,000! This is your opportunity to showcase your talent, share your story, and inspire our community. Register now and be a part of the celebration!

All Indigenous entrepreneurs that pitch will be welcomed into the Pow Wow Pitch community and gain access to a free Indigenous Startup Program, have the opportunity to have their products and services be considered to be featured in the annual Pow Wow Pitch Box, and will receive a free .CA domain courtesy of CIRA.

Purchase your ticket for the 2025 Manito Ahbee Festival here and visit powwowpitch.org/manito-ahbee to learn more and pre-register to pitch.

Indigenous entrepreneurs across Canada and the United States are also welcomed to pitch for the Turtle Island Pow Wow Pitch Competition held online at powwowpitch.org/pitch until June 3, 2025.

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North Forge Technology Exchange is a non-profit incubator accelerator that works with startups across Canada in technology, STEM and advanced manufacturing from the ideation stages all the way through to Series A. North Forge fuels Manitoba’s innovation economy, providing founders with experienced mentors, entrepreneurs-in-residence, award winning growth coaches and a unique, online four-stage Founders program.

As part of the partnership, North Forge will provide a winning Indigenous entrepreneur participating in the Manito Ahbee Pow Wow Pitch with  a 1-year membership to their Fabrication Lab, a prize valued at $1,750.

“At North Forge, we recognize the power of entrepreneurship to transform communities. We are proud to partner with Pow Wow Pitch and contribute to this year’s Manito Ahbee Pow Wow Pitch,” said Whitney Moir, Program and Communications Director of North Forge. “Supporting entrepreneurs is at the heart of North Forge, and we are thrilled to collaborate in creating inclusive and supportive programming that fosters growth and success within the Indigenous community.”

Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between Indigenous and mainstream organizations: “It’s essential for Indigenous and mainstream organizations to work together to bridge access to supports for Indigenous entrepreneurs. Pow Wow Pitch is thrilled to partner with North Forge for the Manito Ahbee Pow Wow Pitch, expanding access to resources and creating new opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs across Manitoba.”

By investing in Pow Wow Pitch, North Forge aims to contribute to the growing community of support and championing Indigenous entrepreneurship. 

About Pow Wow Pitch 

Pow Wow Pitch is an entrepreneurship program for emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs, which provides a safe, supportive, collaborative, empowering and culturally supportive environment that addresses the unique challenges of Indigenous entrepreneurs and aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs. Pow Wow Pitch enhances, develops and accelerates the growth for current and aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs in a sustainable way through programs and resources. Community leadership through volunteerism is promoted as a reflection of respect and reciprocity as the foundation of the Pow Wow Pitch.

For more information, visit powwowpitch.org.

About North Forge

We are North Forge Technology Exchange – a non-profit incubator accelerator that works with startups across Canada in technology, STEM and advanced manufacturing from the ideation stages all the way through to Series A. We fuel Manitoba’s innovation economy, providing founders with experienced mentors, entrepreneurs-in-residence, award winning growth coaches and a unique, online four-stage Founders program. We have worked with over 280 companies since June 2020 who have created over 1,700 jobs. Armed with North America’s largest non-profit fabrication lab (FabLab™), we operate out of 35,000 square feet across Innovation Drive and Innovation Alley in Winnipeg, including a 4,000 sq foot location in Thompson, Manitoba.

For more information, visit northforge.ca.

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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, announces its collaboration with the Manito Ahbee Festival taking place in Treaty 1 Territory – Winnipeg, Manitoba on May 18, 2024. 

The Manito Ahbee Festival, held May 17-20, 2024 at the Red River Exhibition Park, celebrates Indigenous arts, culture, and music, featuring new events and partnerships. Hybrid Virtual events will continue in 2024 which will include Spirit Visions 48 hour film challenge. 

This year’s incredible lineup of events celebrating Indigenous culture and heritage makes Manito Ahbee the perfect place to showcase your business. 

How It Works 

To enter, vendors, attendees and entrepreneurs can pre-register for limited audition spots here: powwowpitch.org/manito-ahbee, with a few spots reserved on the lottery for those who just turn up and want to pitch. To audition, entrepreneurs will have 1-minute to Pitch their ideas or businesses for a chance to win! 

The top 10 pitchers will be paired with mentors before pitching to the judges and the Manito Ahbee community. Prizes include $5,000 for 1st Place, $2,500 for 2nd Place, $1,000 for 3rd Place, $500 for the Youth Prize, and $500 for the Fan Favourite. In addition, the 1st Place Winner will also get a Golden Ticket to the Turtle Island Finale to pitch for the Grand Prize of $25,000. 

North Forge is set to support Pow Wow Pitch at the Manito Ahbee Festival by providing a winning Indigenous entrepreneur participating in the Manito Ahbee Pow Wow Pitch with a 1-year membership to their Fabrication Lab, a prize valued at $1,750.

In addition to awarding prizes to Indigenous entrepreneurs, this partnership is supporting the Indigenous community and empowering entrepreneurs to thrive. Naomi Sarazin, Executive Director of Pow Wow Pitch comments, “I am thrilled to be bringing Pow Wow Pitch back to Treaty 1 Territory, and collaborating with our esteemed partners in creating a platform to empower and support Indigenous entrepreneurs. Together, let’s ignite the spirit of innovation and celebrate Indigenous entrepreneurship.”

“Supporting our entrepreneurs through Pow Wow Pitch and the Manito Ahbee Marketplace connects our people to the traditional trade economies of our ancestors,” said Lisa Meeches, Executive Director of the Manito Ahbee Festival. “The Manito Ahbee Sacred site is home to the original trade route, it’s our hope that we walk in those same footsteps our ancestors did. Manitoba is home to many well-established and growing Indigenous businesses, and this competition is an amazing opportunity for up-and-coming entrepreneurs to share their ingenuity and gain the tools needed to make it happen. We are so thrilled to welcome Pow Wow Pitch back to Treaty 1 Territory for a third year and are so excited to witness the talent of our community in this year’s competition.”

Join us at the Manito Ahbee Festival and pitch your business to win cash prizes up to $5,000! This is your opportunity to showcase your talent, share your story, and empower our community. So register now and be a part of the celebration!

All Indigenous entrepreneurs that pitch will also be automatically entered into the Turtle Island (North American) Pow Wow Pitch competition and will be welcomed into the Pow Wow Pitch community. All pitchers will get access to a free Indigenous Startup Program, have the opportunity to have their products and services be considered to be featured in the annual Pow Wow Pitch Box and on Pow Wow Market for socially-conscious customers looking to ‘Buy Indigenous,’ will receive a free .CA domain courtesy of CIRA, and a 60-day free Shopify Trial.

Visit powwowpitch.org/manito-ahbee to learn more and to pre-register to pitch.

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Red Rebel Armor is an Indigenous-owned clothing company, founded by Sean Rayland-Boubar crafting designs inspired by Indigenous art, culture, and fashion. It’s also a social enterprise, seeking to provide employment opportunities for Indigenous people reintegrating into society after incarceration.

Sparking conversations

Red Rebel Armor’s clothing line serves as an outlet for wearers to advocate for Indigenous peoples. One of their best-selling designs, for instance, features a shawl dancer and the phrase “land back.” This design advocates for wealth redistribution and the recognition of Indigenous knowledge and rights. Its wearers, whether Indigenous or not, engage in a broader conversation about reconciliation and Indigenous sovereignty.

Propelled by a mission

As a social enterprise, Red Rebel Armour operates an employment service, which provides on-the-job training for individuals returning from the criminal justice system. Red Rebel Armor has helped individuals stay out of jail, find stable housing, and gain essential work skills. For instance, one of their employees, has managed to find stable housing and work consistently with Red Rebel Armor despite facing initial challenges with stringent probation conditions.

Sean and his team have started quantifying the social and economic benefits of their employment program, tracking indicators such as the money saved by the federal government due to reduced recidivism rates.

Sean’s story and the growth of Red Rebel Armor underscore the power of entrepreneurship in challenging social issues and advocating for cultural understanding. The clothing line’s impactful designs, coupled with the company’s commitment to providing gainful employment to those in need, demonstrate how businesses can drive tangible social change.

While Red Rebel Armor’s journey has not been without challenges, Sean’s dedication and entrepreneurial spirit have helped him navigate these hurdles. His journey serves as a potent reminder that entrepreneurship and creativity can be powerful tools for change and that businesses can play a pivotal role in fostering social inclusion, reconciliation, and cultural understanding.

As Sean says, “When you’re wearing my clothes, you’re becoming an advocate.” Through its designs, Red Rebel Armor is transforming the way we see and understand Indigenous culture and resilience, one piece of clothing at a time.

Listen to more from Sean on the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast at powwowpitch.org/podcast.

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Tuesday, August 1st | In the world of filmmaking and entrepreneurship, few stories are as inspiring as that of Erica Daniels and her media company, Kejic Productions. A Cree-Ojibwe multi award-winning documentary filmmaker and entrepreneur, Erica’s journey has been one fueled by passion, storytelling, and a commitment to working with Indigenous youth. Her dedication to showcasing Indigenous stories from a truthful and authentic perspective has not only earned her numerous accolades but has also paved the way for Indigenous voices to be heard and recognized on a national level.

Erica’s love for storytelling began at the age of 15 when she participated in the program “Just TV,” designed for at-risk youth in Winnipeg’s inner city. It was there that she learned the art of multimedia, video production, and editing, igniting her passion for being a storyteller. As her skills grew, she eagerly embraced every opportunity that came her way, documenting community events and programming, particularly focusing on Indigenous content and storytelling.

The path that led to the birth of Kejic Productions was one of self-discovery and perseverance. Initially, Erica saw her work as a freelance filmmaker, driven solely by her love for storytelling and her desire to share Indigenous narratives with the world. Little did she know that her passion would pave the way for a thriving media company.

After the birth of her daughter, Erica faced a critical decision point in her life. She had to choose between the stability of a full-time job at CBC and fully committing to her passion for storytelling through Kejic Productions. Despite the risks involved, Erica took a leap of faith, deciding to venture into entrepreneurship. It was a significant turning point that transformed her love for storytelling into a thriving business.

The early stages of Kejic Productions were not without challenges. Like many entrepreneurs, Erica had to overcome a steep learning curve in managing a business. She realized that she couldn’t wear all the hats and learned to build a team to support her vision. Through dedication, hard work, and the support of her family, friends, and mentors, Erica navigated these obstacles and turned Kejic Productions into a growing and successful venture.

One of the key themes that Erica advocates is the importance of hiring Indigenous companies and promoting Indigenous leadership when working with Indigenous clients or communities. She firmly believes that Indigenous people possess a unique understanding of their stories and experiences, making them the most qualified to lead in the storytelling process. By elevating Indigenous voices to leadership positions, these stories can be portrayed authentically and truthfully, free from misinterpretation or misrepresentation.

In the business world, Erica observes that there is still room for growth in supporting and hiring Indigenous businesses. She encourages organizations to actively seek out Indigenous companies and entrepreneurs to collaborate with. By doing so, they can foster an environment of diversity and inclusion, while also helping Indigenous businesses grow and thrive.

Within the film industry, Erica’s advocacy for Indigenous leadership is equally strong. By giving Indigenous filmmakers and storytellers the space to take the helm, their narratives can be told with the depth and understanding they deserve. This shift in the industry is crucial to break away from the historical misrepresentation of Indigenous communities and to allow for a more authentic portrayal of their culture, history, and way of life.

As Erica’s journey continues, she remains committed to investing in Indigenous youth and nurturing the next generation of storytellers. Through her dedication and passion, she sets an example for aspiring entrepreneurs and filmmakers alike, demonstrating that with determination, support, and the belief in oneself, it is possible to turn one’s passion into a successful and impactful venture.

In conclusion, Erica Daniels’ entrepreneurial journey with Kejic Productions stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs and storytellers. Her commitment to empowering Indigenous voices, preserving cultural narratives, and nurturing youth serves as a reminder of the transformative power of storytelling and the positive impact it can have on communities and society as a whole. As more individuals and businesses embrace the importance of Indigenous leadership and storytelling sovereignty, we move one step closer to a more inclusive and enriched world.

Listen now to Erica’s advice and journey on the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast at powwowpitch.org/podcast.

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Are you an Indigenous entrepreneur in Manitoba looking to take action on an idea or grow your business? The Manito Ahbee Festival and Pow Wow Pitch are teaming up for the second year to spotlight and celebrate Indigenous vendors, entrepreneurs, artists, entertainers, filmmakers, and innovators May 19-21, 2023, in Treaty 1 Territory – Winnipeg, Manitoba.

With an incredible lineup of events that includes the Manito Ahbee Pow Wow, Manito Ahbee Marketplace, and many other events celebrating Indigenous arts, culture, and music, Manito Ahbee is the perfect place to showcase your business. 

Plus, thanks to Pow Wow Pitch’s partnership with RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard, you’ll have the opportunity to pitch your business for a chance to win cash prizes of up to $5,000 to take your business to the next level on May 20, 2023. 

To enter, vendors and entrepreneurs can pre-register for limited audition spots here: powwowpitch.org/manito-ahbee, with a few spots reserved on the lottery for those who just turn up and want to pitch. To audition, entrepreneurs will have 1 minute to Pitch their ideas or businesses for a chance to win! 

The top 10 pitchers will be paired with mentors before pitching to the judges and the Manito Ahbee community. Prizes include $5,000 for 1st Place, $2,500 for 2nd Place, $1,000 for 3rd Place, $500 for the Youth Prize and $500 for the Fan Favourite. In addition, the 1st Place Winner will also get a Golden Ticket to the Turtle Island Finale to pitch for the Grand Prize of $25,000. 

But it’s not just about the prizes. This partnership is about supporting the Indigenous community and empowering entrepreneurs to thrive. Sunshine Tenasco, Founder of Pow Wow Pitch, said, “Entrepreneurship is an important tool for reclamation. By sharing our stories, ideas, and businesses, we can grow the Indigenous economy together.”

Lisa Meeches, Executive Director of the Manito Ahbee Festival said, “We are beyond thrilled that Pow Wow Pitch is joining the Manito Ahbee Festival for the second year, and this is a great fit for our new and exciting Kinship program for 2023. The Manito Ahbee Sacred Site was also home to one of our traditional trade economies – in that same spirit, we aim to duplicate the footprints of our ancestors and replicate that, and we thank everyone involved for supporting our Tradeshow and the Indigenous Marketplace.

Manitoba is home to many well-established and growing Indigenous businesses, and this competition is an awesome opportunity for up-and-coming entrepreneurs to share their ingenuity and gain the tools needed to make it happen. We are proud to support our Indigenous entrepreneurs, businesses, and relatives throughout the province, and we can’t wait to hear all the pitches for new and innovative concepts this year.”

Last year’s Manito Ahbee Pow Wow Pitch winner Erica Daniels, Founder of Kejic Productions, went on to pitch at the Pow Wow Pitch Finals and took home the grand prize of $25,000 at Pow Wow Pitch! Sean Rayland Boubar, the founder of Red Rebel Armour, won the People’s Choice Award at Manito Ahbee and secured second place at the grand finale. Winnipeg entrepreneurs dominated the Turtle Island podium at Pow Wow Pitch, and this year, it could be you!

Join us at the Manito Ahbee Festival and pitch your business to win cash prizes up to $5,000! This is your opportunity to showcase your talent, share your story, and empower our community. So register now and be a part of the celebration!

All those who audition, regardless of whether they make it to the Top 10, will still have a chance to advance to the Pow Wow Pitch digital semi-finals and will join the Pow Wow Pitch community. 

All pitchers will get access to a free Indigenous Startup Program, get more than $250 worth of free technology, tools and support, and have the chance to have their products and services featured in the Pow Wow Pitch annual Mailer Box to 500 customers and on the Pow Wow Pitch Marketplace launching later this year for socially-conscious customers looking to ‘Buy Indigenous.’

Visit powwowpitch.org/manito-ahbee to learn more and to pre-register to pitch.

The post Thriving Together: Join the Pow Wow Pitch – Manito Ahbee Festival Partnership in Celebrating Indigenous Entrepreneurship appeared first on Pow Wow Pitch.