To our fellow entrepreneurs,
We see you.
We see the way you carry your community, your family, your language, your ancestors and your dreams all at once. We know that many of you were not raised to see ourselves as “CEOs” or “founders,” yet here we are — creating jobs, building brands, shifting narratives, and proving every day that Indigenous-led businesses are powerful forces for change.
If you’re just starting, or even just thinking about starting, please know this: you belong here. The business world needs our voices, our designs, our ways of thinking and relating. Our values — reciprocity, respect, humility, care for the land and for people — are not a weakness in business. They are our competitive advantage.
Don’t be afraid to start small. Many strong companies began at kitchen tables, in basements, at markets and community events. What matters is that you start, that you keep going, and that you ask for help when you need it. Mentors, elders, other Indigenous founders — we’re all part of your ecosystem. Lean on us.
Most importantly, don’t forget why you began. Your “why” will carry you when things get hard. Whether it’s your children, your community, your culture, or a problem you’re determined to solve — hold that close.
You are not alone in this journey. Every step you take opens a path for the next generation of Indigenous entrepreneurs. And that, in itself, is a legacy.
Keep going. We rise together!
Trisha Pitura
Co-founder of MINI TIPI
Co-founded in 2016 by Trisha Pitura, a member of Nipissing First Nation, and Mélanie Bernard, originally from Quebec City of settler descent, MINI TIPI was born from a shared vision to fill the void of authentically designed Indigenous textiles in the marketplace. Today, the brand has grown into an industry leader in lifestyle design, renowned for creating authentic patterns and collaborating with Indigenous artists to share knowledge, foster representation, and produce high-quality products made locally in Canada.
