Historic Agribusiness Trade Mission: Indigenous Entrepreneurs Shine at NCIAF Pitch Competition

The National Circle for Indigenous Agriculture and Food (NCIAF), in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), hosted an Indigenous Pitch Competition during the historic agribusiness trade mission to Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, June 17-20th. This groundbreaking USDA mission, the first of its kind, specifically highlighted products made and produced by tribal agribusinesses, marking a significant milestone in the reinvigoration of traditional trade networks amongst tribal nations across the United States and Canada.

Indigenous entrepreneurs from across Turtle Island gathered to compete in the NCIAF Pitch Competition, delivering compelling presentations of their food businesses and products to a distinguished panel of judges. The panel included Eric Woods, Director of Growth and Partnerships with Branding & Buzzing; Ben Jacobs, President and Co-Founder of Tocabe; and Chris McKee, Senior Vice President of Business Development with NCIAF. 

Before the competition, the NCIAF provided a customized pitch development workshop, designed to help participants refine their pitch content and delivery while fostering a collaborative environment for networking and mutual growth. The workshop proved invaluable, as the participants’ presentations were met with high praise from the judges. 

The competition was fierce, and the judges faced a tough decision. Ultimately, Navajo Mike's clinched the top spot, with CatSpring Yaupon taking second place, and Morning Light Kombucha coming in third. Navajo Mike's exceptional pitch earned not only the top prize but also an exclusive Brand Review and Coaching package with Branding & Buzzing. 

"The gravity of the event soon became evident: this was the first of its kind. The first time Indigenous Nations and Businesses from both sides of the US Canadian border gathered together with multiple levels of government and commerce leaders.”

Says Eric Wood, Director of Growth and Partnerships for Branding & Buzzing.  “I spoke to many other participants who felt the same - they’d done a lot of trade shows, and meetings, but something about this was different and truly special. Pitching is a learned skill, and is nerve-racking, to say the least, and the companies that participated did great! The brand stories, the rich history behind some of the products, and also the extra care taken to give back to their respective communities was both inspiring and insightful.” 

This event not only highlighted the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit within Indigenous agribusinesses but also strengthened the bonds between Nations through the revival of traditional trade networks. The NCIAF Pitch Competition and the USDA's historic trade mission stand as testaments to the resilience and ingenuity of Indigenous communities, paving the way for a prosperous and interconnected future in agribusiness. 

Sitting on the judges panel at NCIAF pitch event was a truly inspiring experience. Hearing from the wide range of Indigenous food and beverage companies showed the innovation and progress that is happening not only within food production but also shined a light on the business acumen and entrepreneurial spirit that is continuing to rise in Indigenous communities. I was grateful to hear from and support each business through this process

-Ben Jacobs, President & Co-founder Tocabe

“With winning the NCIAF Pitch Competition, our business has been able to boost our marketing campaigns and help promote our products across Canada. With the event we were introduced to amazing people and businesses!” 

-Michael John, Founder of Navajo Mike’s & 1st Place Pitch Winner 

“The entire NCIAF team were incredibly encouraging and thoughtful in their support. They really put themselves in our position as founders and created resources that were helpful to the many different stages and products of our companies.” 

-Abianne Miller Falla, Founder of CatSpring Yaupon & 2nd Place Pitch Winner