Indigenous Venture Challenge is driving more capital into Indigenous-led ventures

Led by Indigenous investors, the initiative is backing founders with an alternative to traditional VC—rooted in “reciprocity, shared success, and what’s best for the venture to succeed.”

The Indigenous Venture Challenge (IVC) is leading a movement to put more capital into Indigenous-led ventures—using an approach that is solving a centuries-old problem in a “novel way.”

The IVC is calling out to founders to compete for a minimum $50,000 investment from Indigenous angel investors. Following final due diligence and the acceptance of terms, the funding will be made available through a shared earnings agreement (SEAL)—a model designed to protect founders from predatory terms while creating shared upside for both sides.

Those who are shortlisted will be invited to pitch live at the Indigenous Tech Conference—taking place in Richmond, B.C., on January 20, 2026—with all expenses paid. Leading up to the event, founders will receive mentorship from experienced Indigenous founders and investors, support navigating venture terms and understanding SEAL agreements, and access to capital