b"AdvertorialBuilding a Brighter Future: SIIT's pawcikwikamik: Nutrien MakerLodge Empowers Indigenous Innovation and TechnologyNutrien, in partnership with the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT), proudly launched the pawcikwikamik: Nutrien MakerLodge at the Saskatoon Campus on June 27th, 2023. The lodge is the first Saskatchewan innovation incubator dedicated to empowering grassroots Indigenous entrepreneurship.At Nutrien, Inclusion is one of our core values, and an important example of that value at work is our commitment to preserving Indigenous history and innovation, here in Saskatchewan and beyond, says Chris Reynolds, EVP & President, Potash at Nutrien. This investment demonstrates Nutriens continued commitment to inclusion, while paving the way for increased opportunities and enhanced educational Nutriens Executive Vice President & President, Potash, Chris Reynolds speaks atpathways for Indigenous students and the official launch of the pawcikwikamik: Nutrien MakerLodgeentrepreneurs. The name pawcikwikamik (pronounced puh-wah-see-gay-wik-ah-mik) is a Cree word meaning 'a lodge supporting those who dream.' Its mission is to empower Indigenous learners, nurture creativity and strengthen community connections while preserving culture and language. The MakerLodge has already facilitated over 800 training hours, benefiting more than 60 First Nations, and making significant strides in fostering First Nation inclusion and leadership in the tech economy.This space has been two years in the making, explains SIIT President Riel Bellegarde. From this newly renovated main floor at our downtown Saskatoon Campus, SIIT is supporting community-based innovation and technology programming and services across the province. The MakerLodge will stand as a vibrant hub in downtown Saskatoon. With the mandate to support, educate and mentor Indigenous people, beginning in Saskatchewan, the MakerLodge hopes to create a model that can be expanded to other Canadian jurisdictions. By fostering Indigenous innovation through the creation of this MakerLodge, Nutrien hopes to grow innovation and entrepreneurship across their supply chain. Beyond the physical infrastructure, this partnership provides unparalleled access to advanced technologies and training for Indigenous students, revolutionizing tech education in underserved communities. As Nutrien and SIIT join forces to empower Indigenous youth by providing access to cutting-edge technology, hands-on learning opportunities and equipping students with state-of-the-art technology, the partnership aims to empower young minds, enabling them to become future leaders."