4th Annual Indigenous Youth Entrepreneur Summit & Job Fair
October 26 - 30, 2026
Holiday Inn & Suites Vancouver Downtown | 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.
INSPIRE • EDUCATE • ELEVATE
The Indigenous Youth Entrepreneur Summit & Job Fair brings together Indigenous youth ages 18–35 from across Canada for an immersive five-day experience focused on entrepreneurship, leadership development, career exploration, and personal growth.
Hosted at the Holiday Inn Downtown Vancouver, participants connect with peers from diverse Nations and communities while learning from Indigenous entrepreneurs, business professionals, employers, educators, and community leaders.
What You’ll Experience
✔ Develop a business concept with your team and coach
✔ Learn entrepreneurship, leadership, and career-readiness skills
✔ Connect with Indigenous entrepreneurs and industry professionals
✔ Participate in hands-on workshops and team challenges
✔ Film a team business pitch
✔ Attend a Job Fair featuring employers, educational institutions, and organizations
✔ Participate in the Gala Dinner and Pitch Competition
✔ Compete for a $10,000 prize
Throughout the week, participants work in teams to develop a business idea from the ground up. Guided by experienced coaches and mentors, teams spend the first three days exploring entrepreneurship, refining their venture, and strengthening key skills in communication, leadership, problem-solving, marketing, and business development.
On Day 4, teams bring their ideas to life by filming a pitch presentation that showcases their venture and entrepreneurial vision.
The Summit concludes on Day 5 with a Job Fair that connects participants with employers, post-secondary institutions, training providers, and organizations committed to supporting Indigenous success. That evening, participants gather for the Gala Dinner and Pitch Competition, where team pitch videos are showcased, achievements are celebrated, and the winning team is announced.
The top-performing team will receive a $10,000 prize to help kickstart their venture, with additional recognition awarded to other standout teams.
More than a conference, the Indigenous Youth Entrepreneur Summit & Job Fair is a launchpad for future leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers. Participants leave with practical skills, valuable connections, increased confidence, and a stronger understanding of the opportunities available to them.
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Agenda
Coming Soon!
Speaker Bios
Coming Soon!
Apply Now
Ready to take the next step?
Applications are now open for the 4th Annual Indigenous Youth Entrepreneur Summit & Job Fair. Join Indigenous youth from across Canada for an unforgettable week of entrepreneurship, leadership development, mentorship, networking, and opportunity.
Eligibility
✔ Indigenous youth ages 18–35
✔ Open to applicants from across Canada
Registration Information
✔ There is no cost to apply
✔ Applications will be reviewed by a selection committee
✔ Successful applicants will be invited to register and submit a $500 + GST registration fee to confirm their participation
✔ Accommodation information will be provided to successful applicants
Important Dates
📅 Summit Dates: October 26–30, 2026
📝 Application Deadline: September 20, 2026
Please complete the application form below. Successful applicants will be notified following the application review process.