IN THIS EDITION
OPENING THE CIRCLE
A message from the Executive Director
AROUND THE CIRCLE
Gesgapegiag Pow Wow Pitch Recap
WITHIN THE CIRCLE
Announcing the 2026 Semi-Finalists
IN THE CIRCLE: AUGUST PODCAST
Build with Purpose featuring Logan Ashley
BUILDING TOGETHER
Partner Announcements
JOIN THE CIRCLE
Alumni Stories & Community Leadership
OPENING THE CIRCLE
A message from the Executive Director
Celebrating Courage and Growth Summer has been filled with incredible moments of connection, celebration, and entrepreneurship. From the inspiring pitches we witnessed at Gesgapegiag Pow Wow Pitch to announcing our 100+ Semi-Finalists for the virtual 2026 Indigenous Business Pitch Competition This season continues to remind us that Indigenous entrepreneurs are building businesses that strengthen communities, create opportunities, and inspire future generations
Every entrepreneur who has stepped onto a Pow Wow Pitch stage this year has demonstrated courage Sharing your story, your vision, and your dreams takes confidence, and we are honoured to walk alongside each entrepreneur as they continue their journey Whether you pitched live this summer or advanced through our virtual Pitch program, each milestone represents the dedication, resilience, and hard work it takes to build a business Congratulations to every entrepreneur who continues to show what Indigenous innovation looks like across Turtle Island
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate our Semi-Finalists, we ' re also excited for what comes next. Beginning August 31, you'll have the opportunity to hear directly from each Semi-Finalist as their virtual pitches premiere, showcasing innovative businesses across 13 industry categories. We also encourage everyone to support their favourite entrepreneur by casting a vote for the People's Choice Award before voting closes on September 10.
Behind the scenes, our team is also preparing for an exciting fall season. In next month's edition of From the Circle, we'll share updates as our Semi-Finalist pitches get underway, announcing this year ' s recipients of the Tech 4 Youth program as we continue building toward another inspiring Grand Finale. And later this fall, stay connected to see who will be recognized for excellence in entrepreneurship through our Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards.
Whether you ' ve pitched, volunteered, mentored, partnered with us, or cheered entrepreneurs on from the audience, thank you for being part of this growing community.
Together, we ' re creating more opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs to thrive, and we ' re excited to continue celebrating their stories in the months ahead.
Naomi Sarazin Executive Director, Pow Wow Pitch
AROUND THE CIRCLE GESGAPGEGIAG
POWWOW PITCH
A Milestone for the 2026 Season
One Stage. Fourteen Stories.
The 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Trail continued at the Gesgapegiag Mawiomi PowWow, held July 17 and 18 in Gesgapegiag First Nation, Quebec Fourteen Indigenous entrepreneurs stepped onto the stage to share their one-minute pitches, showcasing businesses rooted in culture, creativity, beauty, food, community, and innovation
Following two days of inspiring pitches, Sherry Condo of Listiguj First Nation, owner of Wild Flower Honey, was awarded the 1st Place $5,000 Prize Sky Jerome of Gesgapegiag First Nation, founder of Sky Sculpted Brows, received the 2nd Place $2,500 Prize and was also selected as the Fan Favourite $500 Prize Trinity Martin of Gesgapegiag First Nation, founder of Companion Care Collective, earned the 3rd Place $1,000 Prize, while Rysun Jerome of Gesgapegiag First Nation, founder of Bryse, received the $500 Youth Prize
Beyond the awards, Gesgapegiag Pow Wow Pitch was a celebration of entrepreneurship, culture, and community, bringing together entrepreneurs, mentors, judges, partners, and supporters to celebrate Indigenous innovation and the next generation of Indigenous business leaders.
Read the full event recap and meet the winners at: powwowpitch.org/stories
Celebrating Every Entrepreneur
Every entrepreneur who stepped onto the stage brought a unique story, vision, and purpose to the 2026 Gesgapegiag Pow Wow Pitch. While four entrepreneurs were recognized across five prize categories, all 14 participants demonstrated the courage to share their ideas, represent their communities, and take the next step in their entrepreneurial journey. Each pitch reflected the passion, resilience, and innovation that c ti t t th Indigenous entrepreneurship across Mi'kma'ki and beyond entrepreneur for being part of this year ' s Pow Wow Pitch seas following their continued success
WITHIN THE CIRCLE
Announcing the 2026 Semi-Finalists
120 Indigenous entrepreneurs. 13 categories. On Grand Finale.
We are proud to celebrate the 120 Indigenous entrepreneurs who have a the virtual 2026 Indigenous Business Pitch Competition. Representing 13 various communities across Turtle Island, these entrepreneurs continue innovation, creativity, and leadership shaping the future of Indigenous business.
Advancing to the Semi-Finals is a significant achievement. Each entrepreneur has already completed their first pitch and will now refine their business story before pitching again to our panel of judges for a chance to advance to the Grand Finale.
What's Next?
August 31 to September 9: Semi-Finalist pitch episodes premiere.
September 10: People’s Choice voting closes
September 15: The 2026 Finalists will be announced.
October 21: Grand Finale watch party
Congratulations to every entrepreneur who reached this stage We look forward to sharing your stories with the world
View the full Semi-Finalist list here: www.powwowpitch.org/semi-finalists
Announcing the2026 Semi-Finalist
HAIDAROOTS
PRODUCTIONS
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CORIROSEVISUAL COMMUNICATIONS
STURGEONLAKEFIRST NATION SASKATOON,SK TUNUNIQ THEATRE
CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
TYLER'S STYLING STUDIO
KATLODEECHEFIRSTNATION YELLOWKNIFE NT
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SADIEPETERSON CHEROKEENATION ALBANY OR USA EMPOWER
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PEOPLE’SCHOICEAWARD
SupportYourFavouriteSemi-Finalist
NowthroughSeptember10,supporterscanvotefor theirfavourite2026Semi-Finalist Theentrepreneur withthemostvoteswillreceivethe$1,000People's ChoicePrizeandautomaticallyadvancetothe2026 PowWowPitchGrandFinale
EveryvotehelpscelebrateIndigenous entrepreneurshipwhilegivingentrepreneurs greatervisibilityastheycontinuegrowingtheir businesses
VotingclosesSeptember10,2026at11:59pm ET
powwowpitch.org/vote
IN THE CIRCLE: AUGUST PODCAST
Build with Purpose featuring Logan Ashley
Logan Ashley, founder and CEO of Goodway Homes and a 2025 Pow Wow Pitch SemiFinalist, joins us on the August episode of the Pow Wow Pitch Podcast to share how an unexpected career change led him from commercial helicopter pilot to building sustainable, high-performance homes designed to serve Indigenous communities for generations.
Drawing on his experiences as an entrepreneur and builder, Logan reflects on the journey of creating Goodway Homes and the vision behind designing homes that prioritize durability, energy efficiency, and long-term wellness
What began as a mission to help address housing gaps in Indigenous communities has evolved into a business specializing in highperformance prefabricated homes, net-zero design, and innovative building methods that support healthier, more sustainable living By combining modern technology with thoughtful design, Goodway Homes is reimagining what housing can look like for Indigenous families and communities.
Throughout the conversation, Logan explores the importance of building with intention, emphasizing that a home is far more than a physical structure It is the foundation for healthy families, thriving communities, and future generations
He shares how innovations such as solar energy, water filtration systems, and off-grid capabilities are helping create homes that are not only more efficient, but also more resilient and better suited to the diverse needs of Indigenous communities across Turtle Island
Listen at powwowpitchorg/podcast
BUILDING TOGETHER PARTNER UPDATES
Partner Announcements
In July, Pow Wow Pitch continued to strengthen its network of partners, welcoming new collaborations and renewed commitments that expand opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs through community partnerships, early-stage funding, and long-term organizational growth
Pow Wow Pitch partnered with Mi'gmawei Mawiomi Business Corporation to present the 2026 Gesgapegiag Pow Wow Pitch, helping create opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs to pitch their businesses, connect with mentors, and grow their ideas within Mi'gmaq communities
Raven Indigenous Capital Partners also renewed its partnership with Pow Wow Pitch in 2026, continuing its support of early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs through access to resources, mentorship, and business growth opportunities that help founders scale their ventures.
Pow Wow Pitch also announced $300,000 in funding from the McConnell Foundation, supporting the expansion of programs and resources that empower more Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island This investment will help strengthen programming, increase access to entrepreneurial supports, and create new opportunities for Indigenous business owners and aspiring founders.
Together, these partnerships continue to strengthen the support available to Indigenous entrepreneurs, helping create pathways for innovation, connection, and long-term success
Read more about our partnership announcements at powwowpitchorg/stories
Unplugging for Success: 5 Tips to Help Business Owners Take Time Off
As a business owner, you know time can be hard to come by. Still, taking t off isn't just good for you it's good your business. This summer, give your permission to step away. Ready to mak happen?
Teach me how to unplug.
BUILDING TOGETHER PARTNER UPDATES
Partner Announcements
Nominations Now Open:
Your business deserves to be recognized! Applications are now open for the inaugural Canada Small Business 100 (CSB100), presented by Mastercard This national recognition program celebrates exceptional Canadian small businesses whose courage, perseverance, and passion fuel Canada's economy and enrich its communities Selected businesses will receive national editorial recognition through GLORY Media, with the special category award winners being announced in October at the Mastercard Small Business Summit. Apply Today!
Exclusive offer for PowWow Pitch: Register your free .CA website today!
Pitchers and Pow Wow Pitch alumni, don't miss your exclusive opportunity to claim a free .CA domain, one year of web hosting and an email account, courtesy of CIRA and Web Hosting Canada A strong online presence starts with a trusted Canadian domain, making it easier for customers to find and trust your business
Redeem your free offer today and start building your business online.
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
BECOME A PARTNER PARTNERS
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
JOIN THE CIRCLE SHARE
YOUR STORY
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 your experience with participating in Pow Wow Pitch Programs, 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
NADINE AROUS Director, Project Management, Small and Medium Enterprises, 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
