Entrepreneurship Program
Our 6-month and 12-module curriculum takes you step-by-step from validating your business idea to delivering each pitch. Each module builds on the last, with practical assignments that create real business documents you will use to launch and grow your enterprise.
About the Program
Our 12-module curriculum guides you from idea validation to pitch delivery, supported by Indigenous mentors who understand your journey. The flexible format combines in-person workshops, virtual sessions, and self-paced learning.
The Cohort Pilot Program offers 10 free spots, fully funded by Indigenous Services Canada, with applications open from December 1–31, 2025.
The program begins in the second week of January 2026 and runs for six months, covering 12 modules with a total value of $4,200.
Developed in partnership with eHanlis Inc., this pilot gives participants the chance to help shape the final program while building their own businesses.
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Assess your entrepreneurial mindset, validate your business idea, and understand what it takes to be a successful Indigenous entrepreneur. Explore your motivations, strengths, and areas for growth.
DELIVERABLE:
Entrepreneurship Portfolio - Your personal assessment and business concept overview
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Learn the fundamentals of business structures, legal requirements, registration processes, and compliance. Understand the implications of different business types for Indigenous entrepreneurs.
DELIVERABLE:
Business Structure Document- Your chosen structure with rationale
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Identify your target market, analyze competitors, and understand customer needs. Learn research methodologies and how to gather actionable market intelligence.
DELIVERABLE:
Market Research Report- Complete analysis of your market opportunity
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Plan your day-to-day operations, supply chain, inventory management, and quality control. Create systems that allow your business to run efficiently.
DELIVERABLE:
Operations Budget - Detailed operational plan and costs
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Develop hiring strategies, create job descriptions, understand employment law, and build a positive workplace culture that reflects your values.
DELIVERABLE:
HR Plan - Staffing strategy and organizational structure
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Master financial statements, cash flow management, pricing strategies, and financial projections. Learn to read the numbers that drive business decisions.
DELIVERABLE:
Cash Flow System - Financial projections and management tools
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Build your brand, develop marketing strategies, and create communication plans that resonate with your target audience.
DELIVERABLE:
Marketing Plan - Complete marketing strategy and tactics
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Develop sales strategies, build customer relationships, and create systems for excellent customer service and retention.
DELIVERABLE:
Sales Strategy - Sales plan and customer relationship management system
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Explore funding options, learn to pitch to investors, and understand grants and financial support available to Indigenous entrepreneurs.
DELIVERABLE:
Funding Strategy - Funding requirements and application plan
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Explore funding options, learn to pitch to investors, and understand grants and financial support available to Indigenous entrepreneurs.
DELIVERABLE:
Funding Strategy - Funding requirements and application plan
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Plan for sustainable growth, explore expansion opportunities, and develop strategies for scaling your business while maintaining quality.
DELIVERABLE:
Growth Plan - Strategic plan for business expansion
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Compile all your work into a comprehensive business plan and deliver a professional pitch presentation to showcase your business.
DELIVERABLE:
Complete Business Plan & Pitch Deck - Your roadmap to success
Our Team
Karen McCarthy
A proud member of Whitefish Lake First Nation #128, Karen is the cofounder and force behind Inspire Group of Companies. With over 20 years of experience, she’s known for bringing people together, makign space for Indigenous voices, and driving action to create lasting change.
Elizabeth Hanlis
Ms. Hanlis has over 20 years of experience in eLearning, instructional design, training, and digital transformation.
Ms. Hanlis is the author of 11 publications, has presented at 25 conferences, delivered over 81 workshops to professionals, developed over 70 online courses for post-secondary institutions, completed over 150 eLearning and digital transformation projects for clients, and served over 1 million learners.
Program Partners
Indigenous Ignite brings together three organizations committed to Indigenous entrepreneurship excellence.
Funded by Indigenous Services Canada
Indigenous Services Canada provides funding that makes the Cohort Pilot Program completely free for 10 Indigenous entrepreneurs, removing financial barriers and making quality business education accessible.
Developed with eHanlis Inc.
eHanlis Inc. brings over 17 years of experience in Indigenous entrepreneurship education. They developed our culturally-grounded curriculum and program structure, ensuring participants receive quality, relevant training rooted in Indigenous perspectives.
Hosted by Inspire Group of Companies
Inspire Group of Companies hosts Indigenous Ignite as part of our commitment to empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs through education, networking, and community building.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Join 10 Indigenous entrepreneurs in our FREE Cohort Pilot starting January 2026.
Applications open December 1, 2025 and close December 31, 2025.
FAQ
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What time commitment is required?
The program requires approximately 10-15 hours per month: one full weekend day for in-person sessions (Saturdays), plus 2-3 hours weekly for virtual sessions (Saturdays), plus self-paced online learning and assignments.
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Can I miss sessions if I have conflicts?
We understand life happens. Sessions are recorded when possible, and we work with students who have occasional conflicts. However, regular attendance is important for success and community building.
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When is payment due?
For the Cohort Pilot Program (December 2025 - January 2026), there is no payment - it is 100% funded by Indigenous Services Canada.
For the full program launching June 2026, payment for Module 1 is due upon acceptance. Subsequent modules are billed monthly at the beginning of each month.
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Are there funding opportunities available?
Yes, we provide information about various funding sources, grants, and financial support programs for Indigenous entrepreneurs. Details are shared with enrolled students.
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Is the Cohort Pilot really free?
Yes! The Cohort Pilot is 100% funded by Indigenous Services Canada. Applications open December 1 and close December 31, 2025. Only 10 FREE spots available. Program starts the second week of January 2026.
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Who developed the program curriculum?
The 12-module curriculum was developed in partnership with eHanlis Inc., who brings over 17 years of experience in Indigenous entrepreneurship education and community-driven program development.