Good Organics very own Co-Founder Garrett McMartin is of Indigenous descent of Semiahmoo First Nation. Garrett is a Pow Wow Pitch British Columbia Semi-Finalist running in hopes of winning the $25,000 start-up business grant.
He sat down with Pow Wow Pitch to answer a few questions, here’s a short outline of what they discussed:
Can you tell us more about Good Organics?
Good Organics is a more sustainable approach to toothpaste.
We took something that every person uses every day and has been the same for 140 years and evolved it to benefit humanity, the planet, and your body.
Good Organics toothpaste tablets dramatically reduce the amount of water used daily and eliminate plastic waste.
What motivated you to start Good Organics?
As an Indigenous entrepreneur, I believe everything is connected. I think every Indigenous person has a gift that can help to heal the world. By bringing our gifts to the world and connecting, we can heal the collective.
Why did you apply for Pow Wow Pitch?
There is strength in numbers, and I saw it as an opportunity to share Good Organics with more people, to promote a more sustainable future, and to connect with others who share a passion for the environment and sustainability. Through Pow Wow Pitch, I benefited from mentors, support, recognition, and a fantastic community of diverse entrepreneurs. The entire process has opened my eyes and motivated me. My Mentors were Jennifer LaFitte-Cote from EDC, Rebecca Fox from RBC, and Dominic Reilly from RBC. Jennifer helped me pinpoint areas for improvement for my pitch, Rebecca supported me in thinking through my growth and finance strategy, and Dominic provided insights on available funding and resources to further my business goals.
What advice do you have for Indigenous people thinking of starting up a business?
If you’ve ever wanted to do something and felt held back because you worried about what others may say or feel the support isn’t there, go for it. When you apply your total energy to something, you will be surprised how everything starts to fall into place. Your support may not be at home or even in your city, but I promise it exists. So never give up on something you set your mind to, and always give it your everything.
You can support Garrett and Good Organics to reach the Pow Wow Pitch Finals by voting for him for the People’s Choice Prize. Click here to vote.
You can also watch Garrett Pitch at the British Columbia Semi-Finals Live on September 24, 2021, at 6 PM ET / 3 PM PT. Click here to register to watch.