TORONTO, CANADA — Dec 3, 2025 - DMZ at Toronto Metropolitan University is proud to support the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation (IPF) and the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) on the launch of the Indigenous Launchpad for Entrepreneurs, a new, free, Indigenous-led national program empowering early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs from coast to coast to coast.
Led by the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation, the program provides culturally grounded, accessible entrepreneurship training while creating pathways to economic participation and success. Over the next four years, Indigenous Launchpad for Entrepreneurs will help 2,000 Indigenous entrepreneurs build, validate and grow their ideas through a 12-chapter, self-paced learning journey focused on idea development, leadership, digital readiness, operations, financial skills and sustainable business planning.
As a partner, DMZ drew on its expertise in equipping entrepreneurs with the skills and resources to build and scale impactful businesses. Working closely with IPF, DMZ supported the development of the course structure, online learning design, and program flow to ensure the platform is grounded in best practices for early-stage entrepreneurs. All course content, video production, motion graphics, and on-camera participation were created by Indigenous consultants and entrepreneurs hired by IPF, ensuring the program remains fully Indigenous-led, culturally grounded and reflective of lived experience at every stage.
“Launchpad reflects the belief that Indigenous entrepreneurs deserve accessible, high-quality tools to inspire their ideas and support their ambitions,” said Relay Tangie, CPA, ICD, Interim Executive Director, Indigenous Prosperity Foundation. “By blending real-world business skills with planning, innovation, and a prosperity mindset, this program creates a pathway for Indigenous entrepreneurs to step into economic opportunity on their own terms.”
“We’re thrilled to work with the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation and NACCA to support the delivery of Launchpad, a program built by and for Indigenous entrepreneurs. When we saw the gap in tailored support for Indigenous entrepreneurs, we knew the only way to help close it was to build something in real partnership with organizations rooted in the community,” said Abdullah Snobar, Executive Director of DMZ and CEO of DMZ Ventures. “We’re honoured to play a part in creating more opportunities for Indigenous-led innovation.”
While the program is open to anyone, Indigenous entrepreneurs aged 39 and under will have access to additional supports—including mentorship and micro-grants—through currently available funding. As funding expands, IPF anticipates offering enhanced support to more Indigenous age groups.
While IPF and DMZ are formally announcing the Indigenous Launchpad for Entrepreneurs today, the program has already begun supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs:
“I started Mianscum Advisory and Bookkeeping Services because I’ve seen too many businesses struggle with their books. I want to help Cree entrepreneurs survive those early years so our local economy can grow,” said Bradley Mianscum, Founder, Mianscum Advisory and Bookkeeping Services. “Launchpad gives me the chance to learn from other entrepreneurs and build a business that truly supports my community.”
DMZ’s support of the Indigenous Launchpad for Entrepreneurs builds on its broader commitment to giving all entrepreneurs an equitable shot at success. Through dedicated programs for women founders, Black entrepreneurs and now Indigenous entrepreneurs, DMZ works to ensure underserved founders have access to the resources, mentorship and opportunities needed to successfully participate in the economy.
DMZ and IPF are inviting new partners committed to supporting Indigenous-led entrepreneurship to reach out to Alex Husarewych, Strategic Partnerships Manager at DMZ, at ahusarewych@torontomu.ca for more information.
Indigenous entrepreneurs are encouraged to start their Launchpad journey by visiting the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation’s website. Eligible participants will have the chance to join the program’s first mentorship cohort beginning in January 2026.
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Media contact:
Luvy Hardy
luvy.hardy@torontomu.ca
About DMZ
DMZ is a tech incubator and startup ecosystem that fuels entrepreneurship in Canada and beyond. Through its award-winning programs, DMZ empowers founders to scale high-impact ventures, helps students develop entrepreneurial mindsets and equips professionals to thrive in today’s fast-moving economy. By offering tailored support, world-class resources and expansive networks, DMZ nurtures bold ideas, drives business growth and creates global economic impact.
To date, DMZ has supported 2600+ startups in raising $2.95 billion in capital and has created over 25,350 jobs. Headquartered in Toronto, DMZ operates a global network of hubs spanning 15+ countries, enabling entrepreneurs to access diverse markets, collaborate internationally and drive global innovation.
About the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA)
NACCA is a network of over 50 Indigenous Financial Institutions dedicated to stimulating economic growth for Indigenous people in Canada. The network has provided 53,000 loans totaling $3.3 billion to First Nations, Métis, and Inuit entrepreneurs. Learn more at nacca.ca.
About the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation (IPF)
The Indigenous Prosperity Foundation advances economic empowerment, financial confidence, and prosperity pathways for Indigenous peoples in Canada through training, mentorship, and Indigenous-led solutions. Learn more at indigenousfoundation.ca.
