AFOA Canada and Chapter Events
4th Annual Indigenous Youth Entrepreneur Summit & Job Fair
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.
