IN THIS EDITION
OPENING THE CIRCLE
A message from the Executive Director
WITHIN THE CIRCLE
2026 Pow Wow Pitch Advisory Council
IN THE CIRCLE: MAY PODCAST
Feed the Future: Featuring Kendal Garlow
AROUND THE CIRCLE
May Reflections
IN MOTION
Opportunities Within the Circle
Indigenous Pitch Competition
Tech 4 Youth
Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards
Pow Wow Pitch Box
Live Events
BUILDING TOGETHER
Partner Announcements
JOIN THE CIRCLE
Alumni Stories & Community Leadership
OPENING THE CIRCLE
A message from the Executive Director
May is a time to reconnect with what grounds us Across communities, this season invites reflection, renewal, and a deeper connection to the stories, knowledge, and relationships that continue to guide us forward.
At Pow Wow Pitch, this month is rooted in honouring our stories and culture, and recognizing the role they play in shaping how we build, create, and lead Through entrepreneurship, storytelling, and shared learning, we continue to see how powerful it is when community comes together to support one another
As the 2026 season continues, we are seeing that momentum grow From the opening of this year ’ s Pitch Competition to the return of programs like Tech 4 Youth, the Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, and the Pow Wow Pitch Box, there are more opportunities than ever for entrepreneurs to embrace courage and share their ideas. Each program is part of a larger journey, one that supports growth while staying grounded in community
This month, we also look ahead to the first live events of the season These gatherings are moments where entrepreneurs share their vision, and spaces where connections are built, stories are shared, and community shows up in a meaningful way
We are also grateful to welcome new voices into the circle, including Nadine Arous, who joins our Advisory Council. Her experience and perspective will help strengthen how we continue to support Indigenous entrepreneurs across Turtle Island.
As you move through this edition, I invite you to take in the stories being shared, reflect on your own journey, and consider how you might step forward next Whether you are just starting out or continuing to grow, there is a place for you here
Thank you for being part of this circle
Naomi Sarazin Executive Director, Pow Wow Pitch
WITHIN THE CIRCLE ADVISORY COUNCIL
Welcoming Nadine Arous
Pow Wow Pitch extends a warm welcome to our newest Advisory Council member, Nadine Arous, who joined on May 1, 2026.
Nadine is the Director of Product Management for Small and Medium Enterprises at Mastercard, bringing experience in product strategy and a strong commitment to supporting business growth
We are pleased to have Nadine join our Advisory Council and look forward to her leadership and perspective as we continue to support Indigenous entrepreneurs The Pow Wow Pitch Advisory Council is made up of industry and Indigenous leaders who help guide the organization’s growth and direction
“We’re thrilled to welcome Nadine to our Advisory Council. Her leadership and deep understanding of small business innovation will strengthen how we support Indigenous entrepreneurs.”
- Naomi Sarazin Executive Director, Pow Wow Pitch
The Pow Wow Pitch Advisory Council brings together industry and Indigenous leaders who support the growth and direction of the organization
TrishaHayter Director,PortfolioManagement &Data,RBCOrigins
ShanninMetatawabin CEO,NACCA
DarianKovacs CEO,JellyMarketing
AltheaWishloff
RavenIndigenousCapital Partners
DonnaSt.Louis
NationalLeadofIndigenous Exports,InclusiveTrade,EDC
NadineArous ProductManagement,Smalland MediumEnterprises,Mastercard
IN THE CIRCLE: MAY PODCAST
Feed the Future featuring Kendal Garlow
The Pow Wow Pitch Podcast continues this season with a conversation that rethinks how innovation can support community, sustainability, and food sovereignty
In our May episode, we are joined by Kendal Garlow, 2025 Pow Wow Pitch Winner and Founder of SproutSync. Kendal’s work focuses on making greenhouse technology more accessible to Indigenous communities through automated systems designed to operate without reliable internet or cellular connection.
Drawing from her own lived experience and research, Kendal shares how deeply personal her work is, rooted in a commitment to food sovereignty and the well-being of her community Through SproutSync, she is developing tools that support both large-scale and backyard growers, helping reduce barriers to growing fresh, healthy food in remote and northern regions.
Rather than building complex or extractive technology, Kendal approaches innovation as a support system. Her work centers on creating simple, accessible tools that complement existing knowledge and traditional growing practices, while addressing modern challenges like food insecurity and climate conditions
Throughout the conversation, Kendal reflects on the balance between building a scalable business and staying grounded in Indigenous ways of knowing. She highlights that Indigenous entrepreneurship is not only about growth, but about responsibility, care, and collective success.
Listen at powwowpitch.org/podcast.
AROUND THE CIRCLE MAY REFLECTIONS
Honouring our Stories and Culture
May at Pow Wow Pitch is a time for reflection and renewal It is a moment to honour our stories and culture by reconnecting with our languages, histories, and relationships to the land
This month invites us to uplift the knowledge carried by our ancestors and expressed through our communities today, while creating space for the next generation to share their voices Through storytelling, entrepreneurship, and collective learning, we continue to strengthen our connections and ensure our cultures carry forward
Red Dress Day
On May 5, we honour and remember Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit people.
At Pow Wow Pitch, we hold solidarity with families, communities, and advocates calling for justice, safety, and accountability. Through Pow Wow Pitch, we support Indigenous entrepreneurs who are creating pathways toward healing and rooted in community and culture.
Alumni Spotlight: Inuk Gold Photography
Cora Kavyaktok, a proud Inuk entrepreneur originally from Cambridge Bay, Nunavut, now based in Vermilion, Alberta, uses her work to share powerful and necessary stories Through Little Inuk Photography and Inuk Gold, she creates space for awareness, reflection, and truth
Reflecting on her MMIWG2S shoot in 2024, Cora shared: “Growing up, I didn’t realize that it wasn’t normal to be chased down a street by men This happened on too many occasions to count Now I realize it was because my life was viewed to be ‘less than
I dream of a world where we don’t have to share a day like today Where our girls don’t have to be more cautious than others Where if someone goes missing, they are not overlooked, and families are not left to search alone Let’s work to get these loved ones home”
Learn more: @inukgold and @littleinukphotography
Holding Space, Together
Some moments ask us to pause, reflect, and take responsibility for how we show up for one another
In May, as communities take part in the Moose Hide Campaign, we are reminded that creating safer futures for Indigenous women, girls, and two-spirit people is a shared responsibility rooted in care
This work lives in community, in the spaces we create and the ways we support one another. For Kristopher Morrison, a Pow Wow Pitch alumnus, Raven Capital Spotlight Award recipient at the 2024 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards, and Founder of Indigenous Men’s Alliance, that responsibility became the foundation for his work
Alumni Spotlight:
Indigenous Men’s Alliance
Kristopher Morrison, from Moose Cree Nation, founded Indigenous Men’s Alliance to create space for Indigenous men to come together, support one another, and navigate the challenges they face
“The Indigenous Men's Alliance was born from the recognition that our men need a space where they can come together, support one another, and confront the challenges we all face,” he shared “When we uplift our men, we uplift our families, our communities, and our future generations ”
Through land-based and culturally grounded approaches, Indigenous Men’s Alliance creates spaces where men can reconnect with their identity, build relationships, and support one another What began as a response to a need has grown into a movement across communities.
Learn more: Indigenous Men’s Alliance
“When we uplift our men, we uplift our families, our communities, and our future generations”
- Kristopher Morrision
The Moose Hide Campaign
The Moose Hide Campaign is a call to action grounded in ceremony and responsibility. By wearing a small square of moose hide, individuals join a grassroots movement to end violence toward Indigenous women and children
It is a reminder that change requires more than awareness It requires action Across the country, people gather to reflect, learn, and commit to building safer, more respectful communities. As a gift of medicine, pins are available through the Moose Hide Campaign to individuals across Turtle Island Local entrepreneurs can also receive a free pin from our partners in Ottawa at the ADAAWE Indigenous Business Hub.
Wellness Resources
Stress can bring up strong emotions. You are not alone, support is available 24/7
A list of wellness resources across Canada and the United States, including culturally grounded services for Indigenous peoples, is available here.
These resources are shared in the spirit of community care and are not a replacement for professional support If you need additional help, please connect with a trusted professional or organization
Alumni Spotlight: Bee
Bird Productions
This month, we are honoured to spotlight BeeBird,FounderandCreativeDirectorof Bee Productions Inc., from Montreal Lake CreeNationandbasedinReginaonTreaty 4 Territory As we reflect on May’s theme, Bee’s journey highlights the role of storytelling in preserving identity and strengtheningcommunity.
Since participating in PowWowPitch, Bee hasgrownBeeProductionsInc intoarising Indigenous-owned media company, continuing his path as a storyteller and entrepreneur grounded in culture and community.
HisworkfocusesonamplifyingIndigenous voicesthroughwritingandmedia Aproject he is especially proud of, Echoes of the Road Allowance Métis, explores identity, history, and resilience. He has also expanded into video production, including work honouring Indigenous veterans in Regina
Today, Bee Productions Inc. continues to reachwideraudienceswhilestayingrooted in its founding values of culture, collaboration, and community Through his work, Bee is helping ensure Indigenous stories are told by Indigenous voices, now andforfuturegenerations.
TolearnmoreaboutBeeBirdand explorehiswork,visit: BeeProductionsInc
IN MOTION
PowWow Pitch Competition Now Open OPPORTUNITIESWITHINTHECIRCLE
The 2026 Indigenous Business Pitch Competition is now open, marking the start of a new season of celebrating Indigenous entrepreneurship across Turtle Island. Now in its 11th year, the competition invites Indigenous entrepreneurs, artists, and vendors from across Canada and the United States to share their ideas for a chance to access over $100,000 in cash prizes, mentorship, and national exposure
Participants can submit a virtual pitch or join Pow Wow Pitch at select live events throughout the season
Applications are open from April 1 to June 1, 2026.
Thinking of pitching this year? Here’s how to structure your 1-minute pitch:
Watch a Winning Pitch
Looking for inspiration? Watch the 2021 winning pitch by Harlan Wade Kingfisher, Founder and CEO of Smudge the Blades
His pitch is a strong example of how to clearly share your story, business, and vision in just one minute.
Watch Now
IN MOTION OPPORTUNITIES WITHIN THE CIRCLE
As the season continues, additional programs are open to support entrepreneurs, youth, and alumni across the Pow Wow Pitch community These opportunities offer new ways to build, connect, and grow at every stage
Tech4Youth
Supporting the next generation of Indigenous entrepreneurs, Tech 4 Youth provides access to technologyforparticipantsaged10to21.Nowinitsfifthyear,theprogramcontinuestohelpremove barriersandsupportyouthinbringingtheirideastolife
ApplicationsopenuntilJune30 ApplyToday
Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards
The Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards return for their sixth year, recognizing entrepreneurs who are leading with innovation, community, and purpose.
Applications close June 8. Apply or Nominate Today.
PowWowPitchBoxProgram
Applicationsarenowopenforthe2026PowWowPitchBoxprogram OpentoPowWowPitch alumni,theprogramfeaturesproductsfromIndigenousentrepreneurs,helpingthemgainvisibility, reachnewcustomers,andgrowtheirbusinesses
ApplicationsopenuntilJune1 ApplyToday
Box Pre-Sales Now Open
Pre-sales for the 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Box are now open for a limited time Each box features a curated selection of products from Indigenous entrepreneurs, with contents revealed on June 19
Quantities are limited and available by pre-order only Order Now
IN MOTION PowWow Pitch Live Events
OPPORTUNITIESWITHINTHECIRCLE
The 2026 Pow Wow Pitch season continues with the first live events taking place this summer Across communities, these gatherings bring entrepreneurs together to share their ideas, step onto the stage, and be part of something bigger than a single moment. This season begins with two upcoming stops in New Brunswick and Quebec:
Sitansisk PowWow Pitch | June 19 & 20
St Mary’s First Nation, New Brunswick
Join us at the Sitansisk Pow Wow for two days of live pitching, community connection, and opportunity Entrepreneurs from across New Brunswick are invited to share their one-minute pitch and be part of the experience
Stay tuned for more details
GesgapegiagPowWowPitch|July17&18 Gesgapegiag, Quebec
Pow Wow Pitch will also be joining the Gesgapegiag Mawiomi PowWow, welcoming entrepreneurs to step into the spotlight, share their ideas, and connect with community in a meaningful way.
Stay tuned for more details.
Indigenous entrepreneurs at any stage, with a business idea or an existing venture, are welcome to participate Each event offers an opportunity to gain experience, connect with mentors and peers, and be supported along the journey.
Pre-registration is encouraged. More details and official announcements will be shared soon.
IN MOTION OPPORTUNITIESWITHINTHECIRCLE
& LIVE AUDITIONS
Interested in learning more about the Pow Wow Pitch program? Join us for a dedicated online Information Session and Live Auditions in collaboration with EntrepreNorth For Northern Entrepreneurs
JUNE 10 & JUNE 24 12:00 - 1:30 P.M. ET
INDIGENOUS ENTREPRENEUR BOOTCAMPS
Thebootcampfeaturesa2-dayZoomwebinarfeaturinginsightsfromour team,partners,andalumnitosupportyourbusinessgrowthandwelcome youintothecommunity
Registerforoneorbothsessions.
BUILDING TOGETHER PARTNER UPDATES
Partner Announcements
In April, Pow Wow Pitch continued to build on its 2026 partnerships, welcoming organizations that support Indigenous entrepreneurs through mentorship, funding, and digital skill development These partnerships reflect a shared commitment to strengthening capacity and expanding access to opportunities across Turtle Island
Futurpreneur continues its partnership with Pow Wow Pitch, supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs through mentorship and access to financing, helping build strong foundations for their businesses. Jelly Marketing also returns as a partner, focusing on strengthening digital skills for Indigenous entrepreneurs and providing practical strategies that support visibility and growth.
Together, these partnerships continue to strengthen the support system available to Indigenous entrepreneurs, helping ensure they have access to the resources, knowledge, and networks needed to succeed Read more about our partnership announcements at powwowpitchorg/stories
How to Start Your Business in 2026
Starting a business is more than a career choice it's a life choice You've done the thinking, now it's time to make it official Starting a business isn't hard Starting with no plan, no cash flow and no support is The good news? You don't have to do it alone
Here are five steps to get your business off the ground.
Learn More
Make Your Next Hire Count
Every hire matters when you ’ re growing a business This ondemand session walks through how to define roles clearly, tighten your hiring timeline and create an experience that attracts strong candidates If you want a more confident, repeatable approach to hiring, this conversation is a great place to start
Learn More
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 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
