Innovation & Partnerships
pawâcikêwikamik
"a lodge supporting those who dream"
Plains Cree · Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies
Saskatchewan's first Indigenous Innovation Accelerator. A space built on culture, language, kinship, and connection — where traditional knowledge meets what comes next.
Why It Exists
In the spring of 2021, SIIT received funding from Sustainable Development and Technology Canada (SDTC) to create the very first Indigenous Innovation Accelerator in Saskatchewan. It wasn't a response to a grant opportunity — it was a response to what Indigenous communities across the province had been asking for.
Indigenous peoples have always been innovators. Today's generation of Indigenous changemakers is finding ways to combine traditional knowledge with new ideas — to build for their communities, their families, and their future.
pawâcikêwikamik is the space SIIT built for that work.
"Partnership is at the heart of what SIIT does. With the generous support from so many public and private sector, and government partners, SIIT is able to continue building capacity and empowering Indigenous peoples as they contribute to the economic growth of their communities and share their gifts and teachings with the world." — Riel Bellegarde, President & CEO, SIIT
What's Inside
MakerLodge
A state-of-the-art fabrication and innovation space. Access cutting-edge technology in a culturally grounded environment where creating and trying new things is the point.
MicroGrants — $5,000 Non-Repayable
Indigenous entrepreneur with a business idea — or an existing business that needs a boost? Apply for a $5,000 non-repayable MicroGrant. You keep your business, you keep the money.
Applied Certificate
Miyoskamin
"Spring, and the ground is breaking."
A 5-month certificate program. Indigenous and non-Indigenous worldviews on governance, finance, marketing, and sustainability. Guest Elders, knowledge keepers, local innovators, and land-based practices.
- Ayataskisiw: Foundations of Indigenous Innovation
- Wichitowin: Relational Approaches
- Mawasakonam: Sustainable Frameworks
- Kahkiyaw: Building Community Solutions
Blue Seal eligible · $6,254 total · Tuition support may be available
Indigenous Innovator-in-Residence
Mentorship and access from Indigenous innovators who've built real things. Real guidance, real networks, real experience — not a lecture.
Go Where Eagles Dare
International work, study, and travel for full-time SIIT students. Cross-cultural skills. Global networks. A Certificate of Achievement (3 credits) for completing the program.
L3Harris Dreamers & Doers Innovation Camps
Youth-focused innovation camps and the Mobile MakerLodge — bringing hands-on technology and entrepreneurship directly into communities.
Ready to dream — and build?
Whether you're applying for a MicroGrant, exploring the Miyoskamin certificate, or just want to learn more — reach out to the pawâcikêwikamik team.