6 Digital Power Moves for Indigenous Entrepreneurs

Your business deserves to grow, thrive, and create impact. The right digital tools can help you get there—faster and smarter. Whether you’re just starting or scaling up, using digital strategies can save time, bring in new customers, and protect what you’ve built.

We asked Indigenous business leaders to share their top practical tips to help you grow your business, get more sales, and keep everything secure. Here’s what they said:

1. Grow Your Business by Connecting With the Right People

Success isn’t just about what you know—it’s about who you know. Denis Carignan, Co-Founder & Chief Impact Officer at PLATO, says mentorship and networking are game changers for Indigenous entrepreneurs.

"Find successful entrepreneurs in your industry and learn from them. Most will be open to sharing their knowledge and even introducing you to their network if they see you’re keen on learning and growing."

🔹 Power Moves:

1. Connect with other Indigenous entrepreneurs—find them on LinkedIn, at events, or through business hubs.
2. Ask for advice from someone who’s a few steps ahead of you.
3. Be direct—ask, “Can you introduce me to someone who might help?”

Why it works: Indigenous entrepreneurs support each other. Your network is your biggest asset—use it!

2. Lock Down Your Business With Simple Cybersecurity Steps

Cyberattacks happen every day. And the scary part? Most hacks happen because of small mistakes, like weak passwords or clicking the wrong email. Aaron Fay, CEO of Cloudcraft Software Inc., says simple changes can save your business from disaster.

"Understanding your cybersecurity footprint is crucial. A few small habits can reduce risks significantly."

🔹 Power Moves:

1. Use a password manager and create different passwords for every account.
2. Stop and think before clicking on an email link—if it looks weird, delete it.
3. Update your software so hackers can’t find weaknesses.
4. Don’t plug in USBs you don’t trust—they can carry hidden malware.

Why it works: Hackers go after easy targets. These small steps make your business a lot harder to attack.

3. Ditch Tech Fears and Just Start

Many Indigenous entrepreneurs hesitate to use digital tools because they feel overwhelmed. But Laura Englehart, Economic Development Manager at the Joint Economic Development Initiative, says the best way to learn is by doing.

"If you're intimidated by building a website, experiment—press every button, make mistakes, and learn as you go. The key is to trust yourself and take the leap."

🔹 Power Moves:

1. Choose one tech tool you’ve been avoiding (website builder, social media, online payments) and test it out.
2. Watch one short tutorial on YouTube—free and easy!
3. Give yourself permission to fail forward—messing up is part of learning.

Why it works: Indigenous entrepreneurs learn by doing. Once you start, you’ll wonder why you waited so long.

4. Use Digital Tools to Expand Your Reach Beyond Your Community

Want more customers? More funding? More opportunities? Get online. Holly Atjecoutay, Director at Futurpreneur, says digital access opens doors for Indigenous businesses.

"Digital access connects Indigenous entrepreneurs across rural, urban, and Northern communities. It helps you find funding, mentorship, and business opportunities."

🔹 Power Moves:

1. Set up a simple website or social media page for your business.
2. Join an online group for Indigenous entrepreneurs (Facebook groups, LinkedIn, or business forums).
3. Apply for online grants and funding—many programs are digital-first!

Why it works: More visibility = more customers, investors, and partnerships.

5. Automate to Save Time and Make More Money

If you’re doing everything manually, you’re wasting time. Lawrence Lewis, Founder & CEO of OneFeather Mobile Technologies, says automating basic tasks lets you focus on what actually grows your business.

"Use digital tools to free up time and focus on what matters. The more you automate, the more space you have to grow."

🔹 Power Moves:

1. Use a scheduling tool (like Calendly) so customers can book calls with you automatically.
2. Set up automated invoices with QuickBooks or Wave so you get paid faster.
3. Accept online payments so customers can pay instantly (Stripe, Square, or PayPal).

Why it works: More automation = less stress, fewer missed payments, and more time to grow.

6. Get Online and Sell Where Your Customers Are

The easiest way to increase sales? Meet your customers where they are—online. Lewis says e-commerce and social media can turn small businesses into big successes.

"Use digital platforms to sell your products, find your audience, and grow your business faster."

🔹 Power Moves:

1. Sell your products on Etsy, Shopify, or your own website.
2. Promote your business on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok—these platforms help small businesses get noticed.
3. Run small, targeted ads to reach more people—just $5/day can grow your audience.

Why it works: Indigenous entrepreneurs already have amazing products and services—you just need the right people to see them.

Final Takeaway: Start Small, But Start Today

You don’t have to do everything at once. Pick one action from this list and do it today.

🔹 3 Moves to Make Right Now:

1. Choose one cybersecurity step to protect your business.
2. Try one new digital tool (website, social media, automation).
3. Connect with one new mentor or Indigenous entrepreneur this week.

Every small step builds momentum. Get started now, and let your business grow.