IN THIS EDITION
OPENING THE CIRCLE
A message from the Executive Director
WITHIN THE CIRCLE
Celebrating Gina Wilson’s Contributions
IN THE CIRCLE: APRIL PODCAST
Create Room to Thrive: Featuring Donavan Robinson
AROUND THE CIRCLE
April Reflections
IN MOTION
Opportunities Within the Circle
Indigenous Pitch Competition Tech 4 Youth
Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards
BUILDING TOGETHER
Partner Announcements & Updates
JOIN THE CIRCLE
Alumni Stories & Community Leadership
OPENING THE CIRCLE
A message from the Executive Director
A Season of Opportunity
As we move into April, we are entering one of the most exciting times of the year at Pow Wow Pitch. Our programs are now opening, creating new opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.
From the launch of the Indigenous Business Pitch Competition to the opening of the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, Tech 4 Youth, and Pow Wow Pitch Box, this season is about access, growth, and community Each program is designed to meet entrepreneurs where they are, whether they are just starting out or continuing to build and scale their businesses
Looking Ahead
Supporting Entrepreneurs at Every Stage
These programs are more than individual opportunities. Together, they create a pathway that supports entrepreneurs from early ideas to established ventures. Through mentorship, funding, visibility, and community connection, we are working to ensure Indigenous entrepreneurs have the tools and support they need to move forward with confidence
We are also preparing to return to communities across Turtle Island through our in-person events, creating space for entrepreneurs to share their stories in real time These gatherings bring people together to connect, learn, and celebrate
Alongside this, initiatives like the Pow Wow Pitch Box continue to highlight Indigenousmade products and create new opportunities for businesses to reach broader audiences Keep an eye out for our upcoming box reveal, thoughtfully curated to support and celebrate Indigenous entrepreneurs by choosing to buy Indigenous.
This time of year always reminds me of the strength within our community. Every application, every pitch, and every idea shared contributes to something larger We are proud to continue this work together and look forward to seeing what this next season will bring
Naomi Sarazin Executive Director, Pow Wow Pitch
WITHIN THE CIRCLE
Celebrating Gina Wilson’s Contributions
Pow Wow Pitch extends our sincere thanks to Gina Wilson, Deputy Minister of Indigenous Services Canada, for her longstanding involvement and support of the organization
Since day one, Gina has been part of the Pow Wow Pitch journey, contributing her time, insight, and leadership in a variety of ways From her role on our Advisory Council to her broader involvement and support, Gina has played a meaningful part in helping guide the organization as it has grown and evolved
A NOTE OF THANKS
Her commitment to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs, combined with her thoughtful perspective and steady leadership, has helped strengthen Pow Wow Pitch’s programming and community Gina has consistently brought a collaborative and community focused approach, helping ensure the work remains grounded in purpose and responsive to the needs of those we s
W b a
IN THE CIRCLE: APRIL PODCAST
Create Room to Thrive featuring Donavan Robinson
The Pow Wow Pitch Podcast continues this season with a conversation that challenges how we think about productivity, leadership, and workplace culture
New episodes of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast are released on the first Wednesday of each month, featuring Indigenous entrepreneurs and leaders who are building businesses rooted in purpose, creativity, and community.
In our April episode, we are joined by Donavan Robinson, Founder of Pop CoLab and a 2025 Pow Wow Pitch Semi-Finalist Donavan’s work explores the intersection of entrepreneurship, neurodiversity, and the power of play in professional environments
Drawing from his personal journey with ADHD, Donavan reflects on how traditional workplace structures often overlook the needs of diverse thinkers His experience led him to rethink productivity itself, shifting the focus from rigid systems toward environments where individuals can better understand how they work best.
Through Pop CoLab, Donavan introduces the idea of strategic play. Rather than viewing play as a distraction from work, he reframes it as a powerful tool for communication, trust building, and psychological safety within teams By recognizing different play personalities, organizations can strengthen collaboration and create spaces where creativity and innovation can thrive
Throughout the conversation, Donavan emphasizes that self awareness is one of the most valuable tools an entrepreneur or leader can develop. When people understand their strengths, challenges, and working styles, they are better able to create environments where both individuals and teams can succeed
Listen at powwowpitchorg/podcast
AROUND THE CIRCLE
Honouring Mother Earth Day
April is a time to reflect on our relationship with the land and the responsibility we carry to care for it Mother Earth Day reminds us of the teachings and values that guide living in balance with the natural world, and the role these principles continue to play in Indigenous entrepreneurship today
Across the Pow Wow Pitch community, many entrepreneurs are building businesses that reflect this connection, grounding their work in respect for the land, sustainability, and care for future generations
AlumniSpotlight:ShaylishPlants
APRIL REFLECTIONS
Thismonth,weareproudtohighlightShaylishPlants,foundedbyShaylaChalifoux,a2025Pow WowPitchSemi-FinalistintheSustainabilitycategory
Shayla(muskwasis)carriesherStátimc,Nêhiyaw,andmixedEuropeanheritageintoherwork withnativeplantsonSalishlands Throughatwo-eyedseeingapproach,shebringstogether Indigenous and Western knowledge systems to support thoughtful and informed plant stewardship
Withabachelor’sdegreeinhorticulturalscienceandadiplomainsustainablecropproduction, Shaylaisdeeplycommittedtoongoinglearning,includingherjourneytoreconnectwithand revitalizeSťáťimcets,oneofherancestrallanguages
ThroughShaylishPlants,shesharesthebeautyandsignificanceofnativeplantswhileworking toIndigenizeplantspacesinwaysthatsupportbiodiversity,culturalcontinuity,andstronger relationshipswiththelandHerworkinvitesotherstogrowinrelationshipwithtatmícwamúta7 tákemisnekwnúkwa7lhkalha(thelandandAllOurRelations)
As we recognize Mother Earth Day, Shayla’s work offers a meaningful example of how entrepreneurshipcanberootedincare,knowledge,andconnectiontotheland
TolearnmoreaboutShaylishPlantsandexploretheirwork,visitshaylishplantsca
IN MOTION
OPPORTUNITIESWITHINTHECIRCLE
Pow Wow Pitch Competition Now Open
The2026IndigenousBusinessPitchCompetitionisnowopen,markingthestartofanewseasonof IndigenousentrepreneurshipacrossTurtleIslandNowinits11thyear,thecompetitioninvitesIndigenous entrepreneurs,artists,andvendorsfromacrossCanadaandtheUnitedStatestosharetheirbusinessideas forachancetoaccessover$100,000incashprizes,mentorship,andnationalexposureParticipantscan submitavirtualpitchorjoinPowWowPitchatselectliveeventsthroughouttheseason.
ApplicationswillbeopenfromApril1toJune1,2026.
InfoSession&LiveAuditions
PowWowPitchwillhostanInfoSessionandLiveAuditionsonApril10,offeringanopportunitytolearn moreabouttheprogramandtakepartintheexperience.
EventDetails: April10,2026
InfoSession:11:00am–1:00pmET|LiveAuditions:1:00pm–4:00pmET Location:Onlineorin-personatADAAWEIndigenousBusinessHub,338SomersetStreetW,Ottawa,ON RegisterfortheInfo-Session&LiveAuditionhere.
Learn More about the Pitch
IN MOTION
Tech 4 Youth Applications Now Open
Applications are now open for the 2026 Tech 4 Youth program, supported by Best Buy Canada
Now in its fifth year, the program supports young Indigenous entrepreneurs by providing access to the technology needed to launch, manage, and grow their businesses Open to Pow Wow Pitch alumni and current participants aged 21 and under, Tech 4 Youth helps remove barriers while also offering mentorship to support participants in developing their business ideas and pitches
Applicants from across Canada represent a wide range of industries, with businesses rooted in creativity, community, and innovation.
Applications are open from April 2 to June 30, with selected recipients announced in the Fall 2026 Open to Indigenous youth aged 10 to 21 who have participated, or plan to participate, in Pow Wow Pitch
Learn more and apply here.
Learn More & Apply
IN MOTION
Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards Open April 7
Applications and nominations for the 2026 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards open on April 7
Now in its sixth year, the awards recognize outstanding Indigenous entrepreneurs and businesses across Canada, celebrating leadership, innovation, and community-driven business Co-presented by RBC and Mastercard, and supported by partners including Sklar Wilton, Altis Recruitment, and Export Development Canada, the program highlights those making meaningful contributions through their work
Entrepreneurs who are First Nations, Inuit, Métis, or Native American, aged 18 and older, and operating a business in Canada for at least three years are eligible to apply or be nominated. Applications and nominations will remain open until early June, with recipients anno n November
AbouttheArtist
AlanahJewellis a contemporaryIndigenous artist from Oneida N theThames Herselected piece, Cornhusk Dolls, reflects the con betweenculturalteachings,storytelling,andcreativeexpression.T her work, Alanah explores how traditions and knowledge are forward,remindingusthatwhatwecreatecanbeanextensionof areandwherewecomefrom
powwowpitch.org/awards
IN MOTION
OPPORTUNITIESWITHINTHECIRCLE
More Opportunities Coming This Month
April marks the beginning of the Pow Wow Pitch season, with additional opportunities continuing to roll out throughout the month These programs are designed to support Indigenous entrepreneurs at different stages, offering new ways to participate, connect, and grow within the Pow Wow Pitch community
Applications for the Pow Wow Pitch Box will open on April 17, providing entrepreneurs the opportunity to have their products featured and shared with the Pow Wow Pitch community. The program continues to highlight Indigenous-made products and digital experiences while creating meaningful exposure for participating businesses
Throughout the month, we will also be announcing upcoming in-person Pow Wow Pitch event dates and locations These events offer opportunities to pitch live, connect with other entrepreneurs, and be part of the Pow Wow Pitch experience in communities across Turtle Island
Stay tuned for more updates throughout April as additional opportunities are announced Learn more at powwowpitch.org.
BUILDING TOGETHER PARTNER UPDATES
Building a Well-Thought-Out Business Plan
Creating a business plan can feel like a huge undertaking whether you ’ re starting a business or you ’ ve been operating for a while. And while developing one does require careful thought, it will map out the vision for your business, help you execute on your goals and set you up for success – today and tomorrow
Create your plan with the RBC Business Plan Builder
Learn More
BUILDING TOGETHER PARTNER UPDATES
Partner Announcements
In March, Pow Wow Pitch officially confirmed a number of key partnerships for the 2026 season, bringing together organizations that continue to support Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island These partnerships reflect a shared commitment to expanding access to opportunities, strengthening networks, and ensuring entrepreneurs have the tools and support needed to grow their businesses
Mastercard returns as a Co-Presenting Partner, continuing a strong and longstanding collaboration that supports the delivery of Pow Wow Pitch programming across the country Through this partnership, Indigenous entrepreneurs gain increased access to mentorship, visibility, and resources that support their business journeys.
Alongside this, Pow Wow Pitch welcomes back several valued Friend Partners. Sklar Wilton continues its work supporting long term strategy and organizational growth, helping ensure programming remains aligned and responsive to community needs. Altis Recruitment also returns, contributing to initiatives that strengthen connections and create opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs as they build and expand their businesses
CIRA continues its partnership in 2026 with a focus on supporting digital access, helping entrepreneurs establish and grow their online presence Best Buy Canada also returns, with a continued focus on supporting Indigenous youth through mentorship, programming, and access to technology
Together, these partnerships strengthen the foundation of Pow Wow Pitch’s programming and support the continued growth of Indigenous entrepreneurship across the country
Read more about our partnership announcements at powwowpitchorg/stories
BUILDING TOGETHER PARTNERS
Our work is made possible through the support of partners who share our commitment to strengthening Indigenous entrepreneurship Learn more about our partners at powwowpitchorg/partners
CO-PRESENTING
FRIENDS COMMUNITY
BECOME A PARTNER PARTNERS
Funding grants & awards
NATIONAL REACH
Over a decade of programming supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs across Canada
TRUSTED RELATIONSHIPS
Strong connections with founders, youth, and community partners. YEAR-ROUND VISIBILITY
Recognition across live events, digital campaigns, podcasts, and publications
AUTHENTIC ENGAGEMENT
Opportunities to mentor, judge, host, or collaborate beyond brand placement
There’s more than one way to partner. We welcome contributions of all kinds, grounded in generosity, reciprocity, and a shared commitment to uplift Indigenous entrepreneurs. Let’s start the conversation and explore what partnership could look like together Email: hello@powwowpitch.org
JOIN THE CIRCLE
Alumni Stories & Community Leadership
Pow Wow Pitch does not end at the pitch stage Our alumni continue to lead, build, and contribute to their communities in meaningful ways As our network grows, we want to create space to highlight where you are now and how your journey continues to unfold
Are you mentoring others? Providing support in your community? Growing in new ways as a leader? We invite Pow Wow Pitch alumni to share updates, reflections, and stories of community leadership.
Selected submissions may be featured in future editions of From the Circle, on our website, and across our social platforms. By sharing your story, you help strengthen the network and inspire entrepreneurs who are just beginning their journey
Your story remains part of this circle.
BOARD OF
DIRECTORS
WHO WE ARE
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 RBC and Mastercard
STAYINTHECIRCLE
Questions, partnership inquiries, or story submissions? Email us at hello@powwowpitchorg
Website powwowpitchorg
Follow Us Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook
OURTEAM
NAOMISARAZIN
EXECUTIVEDIRECTOR
hello@powwowpitch org
DESTINYMALUGA
COMMUNICATIONSCOORDINATOR
destiny@powwowpitchorg
KEISHAPERRIN
PROGRAMSCOORDINATOR
keisha@powwowpitchorg
SUNSHINE TENASCO Founder & Chair
JESSICA ZHANG-CHAPMAN
Treasurer & Director
WANDA BRASCOUPE
Director
MATTHEW NAHDEE
Director
ADVISORY COUNCIL
TRISHA HAYTER Director, Portfolio Management & Data, RBC Origins
KATE KARN Director of Government Affairs & Policy Mastercard
DONNA ST. LOUIS National Lead of Indigenous Exports, Inclusive Trade, EDC
SHANNIN METATAWABIN CEO, NACCA
DARIAN KOVACS CEO, Jelly Marketing
ALTHEAWISHLOFF Partner, Raven Indigenous Capital Partners
