AFOABC

4th Annual Indigenous Youth Entrepreneur Summit & Job Fair

October 26 - 30, 2026

Holiday Inn & Suites Vancouver | Vancouver, BC

Presented by

INSPIRE  –  EDUCATE  –  ELEVATE 

The Indigenous Youth Entrepreneur Summit and Job Fair creates opportunity for Indigenous youth, ages 18-30,who face systemic barriers to capacity building. Over five days, participants come together in a supportive environment to develop entrepreneurial skills, gains oft-skills for career-readiness, and build the confidence to pursue their goals.

They learn directly from experienced entrepreneurs and industry professionals, as well as leaders from universities, colleges, and trade schools. These sessions offer real-world insight into career and business pathways while helping participants build strong, lasting networks. 

Throughout the summit, participants take part in hands-on workshops, team activities, and mentorship sessions that explore core business topics like product development, marketing, and investment. They also strengthen key life skills such as leadership, problem solving, and communication. 

Six teams tackle real-world business challenges and create a pitch presentation for their group venture. They also attend a job fair that connects them with organizations committed to advancing Indigenous entrepreneurship. 

The experience concludes with a high-energy Gala, where teams pitch their business ideas to a panel of judges. The top-performing team receives a $10,000 prize to kickstart their venture, with additional recognition awarded to other standout teams. 

The Indigenous Youth Entrepreneur Summit is more than a training event. It’s a launchpad for growth that empowers youth with practical tools, career insight, and the connections they need to thrive. 

DOWNLOAD A FLYER TO POST IN YOUR NATION OFFICE OR COMMUNITY CENTER HERE!

Agenda

Coming Soon!

Speaker Bios

Coming Soon!

APPLY NOW

Important: There’s no cost to apply to the Indigenous Youth Entrepreneur Summit. If you’re selected to attend, there will be a $500 + tax registration fee to secure your place at the event. This can be paid by e-transfer or credit card (please note, all credit card transactions will include a 3% surcharge).

DEADLINE TO APPLY: EXTENDED!  STILL SPOTS AVAILABLE!

Click Here for Highlights from the 2024 Indigenous Youth Entrepreneur Summit & Job Fair!

2025 Highlights Coming Soon! 

EXHIBITORS & VENDORS

If you are interested in an Exhibitor booth or Vendor table, please reach out to Candise Johnston at cjohnston@afoabc.org for cost and availability. Please note, space for both is limited. 

ACCOMMODATIONS

We have secured a group rate of $185 per night. You must book before October 1, 2025 to receive this rate. 

Holiday Inn & Suites Vancouver Downtown
1110 Howe St, Vancouver, BC
(604) 684 – 2151
BOOK ACCOMMODATIONS HERE

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