Wejibà bandan
Indigenous Business Incubator
The ADAAWE Indigenous Business Hub presents the Wejibà bandan Indigenous Business Incubator, a comprehensive program supporting early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs in the National Capital Region. From September to December 2024, the Incubator offers full-time business development with a living wage, mentorship, training, resources, and a startup grant.
Meet the 2024 Cohort
Denyse Nadon
Tribalure Canada Inc.
Denyse Nadon, a proud member of the Algonquin Anishinaabe Nation, is the founder of Tribalure Canada Inc., a 100% Indigenous woman-owned startup specializing in online Indigenous cosmetics and skincare products. Tribalure’s products are infused with quality ingredients and proudly packaged to reflect the Indigenous spirit. Denyse hopes to gain business development skills, mentorship, and resources to help scale Tribalure Canada Inc. She aims to create a sustainable business model, expand her product line, and increase her market reach while networking with other Indigenous entrepreneurs and gaining insights from experienced professionals.
Kaylee Smoke
K Rose Artistry
Kaylee Smoke, from the Mohawk Nation of Akwesasne, is the founder of K Rose Artistry, offering mobile hair and makeup services for events such as weddings, bachelorette parties, birthdays, and galas. As a recent graduate from Versailles Academy for professional hairstyling, barbering, and makeup artistry, Kaylee has worked at various events, including weddings and fashion shows. She aims to address the growing market for travelling stylists in Canada and the need for Indigenous woman-owned beauty services. Kaylee is joining the incubator to access assistance in service development and financial management.
Amanda Fox
Inspired by Nokomis
Amanda Fox, a member of the Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory, is the founder of Inspired by Nokomis, a business offering beading and sewing craft work, cultural workshop facilitation, Powwow Workout fitness instruction, and Jingle Dress dance presentations. Named in honour of her grandmother, whose craftsmanship inspired Amanda’s passion, Inspired by Nokomis is a tribute to her heritage and a platform for cultural exchange and empowerment. Growing up, Amanda spent countless hours learning from her grandmother at powwows, which instilled a deep appreciation for her culture. Through the Wejibà bandan Indigenous Business Incubator, Amanda aims to transition to working full-time on Inspired by Nokomis and create a sustainable business.Â
“Wejibà bandan,” meaning “a place to dream” in Algonquin Anishinaabe, is named to reflect our commitment to fostering entrepreneurial vision and success.
Program Benefits and Outcomes
Participating entrepreneurs graduate with a wealth of valuable assets and skills, including:
- A comprehensive business plan
- A detailed financial plan
- Legal audit and assets
- Fully operational business systems
- A full branding kit
- Built-out supply chains
- Client acquisition opportunities
- Enhanced leadership skills
- Off-site visits to inspire and educate
- Weekly Medicine Wheel healing circles
- The unwavering support of a community
To support our cohort or to learn about applying for the 2025 Cohort, email incubator@ibhub.ca.Â
Program Impact to DateÂ
The first cohort pilot, conducted in Fall 2023 with three entrepreneurs, achieved significant impact during the 14-week program. Entrepreneur achievements during the program included:Â
- Securing over $25,000 in revenue.
- Acquiring global, national, and local clients
- Becoming official suppliers to the Government of Canada
- Engaging with more than 50 industry, academic, non-profit and government partners
- Receiving support from more than 100 champions, mentors, and coaches
- Moving from part-time to full-time business operations
- Creating five new jobs
We are committed to supporting our alumni, who are now engaged as peer mentors for the 2024 cohort.
Meet the Incubator Team
Magnolia Perron
Kassondra Walters
Claudette Commenda
Sunshine Tenasco
Karla Briones
Marissa Dube
Cyprian Szalankiewicz
Lisa Bourque
Ashley Clark
Jessica Zhang Chapman
Mariia Volkova
Chad Smoke
Zach Pashe
Program Features
2024 Partners
This program is powered by an incredible network of partners dedicated to supporting the success and growth of Indigenous entrepreneurs.
Alumni
We are proud of our 2023 pilot cohort, who blazed the trail and set the foundation for future success.
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