"Launchpad reflects the belief that Indigenous entrepreneurs deserve accessible, high-quality tools to inspire their ideas and support their ambitions.”

— Relay Tangie, Vice President, Development and Finance, Indigenous Prosperity Foundation 

EleV Partner The Indigenous Prosperity Foundation (IPF) has launched the Indigenous Launchpad for Entrepreneurs, a free, Indigenous-led online program that helps early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs build the skills, connections, and financial support they need to succeed. Launched on December 2, 2025, Launchpad was developed in partnership with the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) and DMZ. 

Over the next four years, Launchpad aims to support 2,000 Indigenous entrepreneurs by offering accessible learning, culturally grounded content, and meaningful opportunities for mentorship and early-stage support. The program offers 12 self-paced chapters that cover essential topics such as idea validation, leadership, digital and operational skills, financial readiness, and sustainable business planning, helping entrepreneurs move confidently from concept to launch. 

All course content was created by Indigenous consultants and entrepreneurs engaged by IPF, ensuring the program reflects Indigenous knowledge, creativity, and lived experience throughout. While Launchpad is open to all, Indigenous entrepreneurs aged 39 and under can currently access additional supports, including mentorship and micro-grants, with broader access planned as funding grows.

Why It Matters:

• Indigenous-led entrepreneurship programs create new pathways to economic opportunity rooted in community values 

• Free, accessible learning removes barriers for early-stage Indigenous entrepreneurs 

• Mentorship, skills-building, and early resources support long-term business sustainability 

• Programs like Launchpad strengthen Indigenous-led innovation and Indigenous Peoples economic self-determination

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About the Mastercard Foundation

The Mastercard Foundation is a Canadian Foundation and one of the world's largest foundations, with a mission to advance education and financial inclusion. It works with visionary organizations to enable young people in Africa and in Indigenous communities in Canada to access dignified and fulfilling work. The Foundation was established in 2006 through the generosity of Mastercard when it became a public company. The Foundation is an independent organization and separate from the company. Its policies, operations and programs are determined by the Foundation's Board of Directors and leadership. For more information please visit mastercardfdn.org.