Chad Smoke Joins IPF to Support the Growth of Launchpad
The Indigenous Prosperity Foundation is pleased to welcome Chad Smoke as our new Launchpad Program Officer, supporting the next chapter of Launchpad programming for Indigenous youth and early-stage entrepreneurs.
Chad is from Akwesasne, a Mohawk Nation that spans the borders of Canada and the United States, as well as the provinces of Ontario and Quebec. He brings experience across banking, administration, management, and trades, along with a strong understanding of Indigenous entrepreneurship and the relationships that help entrepreneurs move forward.
Through his previous role with NACCA, a proud supporter of IPF, he has been connected to the broader Indigenous entrepreneurship ecosystem and may already be a familiar face to entrepreneurs who have connected through the ADAAWE Hub. His move into Launchpad brings that existing knowledge, relationship, and care into IPF’s growing support for Indigenous youth and early-stage entrepreneurs.
“We are thrilled to welcome Chad into this next chapter of Launchpad,” said Alejandra Metallic-Janvier, Program Officer. “Through our shared office environment, I’ve seen the welcoming energy and thoughtful approach Chad brings to his work. He has a natural way of making people feel supported, and I’m excited for Launchpad participants to experience that care and encouragement as part of their entrepreneurship journey.”
In his role with IPF, Chad will support Launchpad through coordination, outreach, participant support, and program operations. He will help promote the program, connect with suitable candidates, support youth as they explore entrepreneurship, and strengthen IPF’s growing network.
For Chad, this work is rooted in uplifting Indigenous entrepreneurs and recognizing the important role they play within their communities and industries.
“I’m passionate about helping uplift others wherever I can, and I believe Indigenous entrepreneurs deserve strong platforms, meaningful opportunities, and recognition for the work they are doing within their communities and industries,” said Chad Smoke.
Robynn Sadler, Youth Programs Manager at IPF, said Chad’s experience and relationship-based approach will be an important addition to the Programs team.
“As Launchpad continues to grow, it is exciting to see our program team grow with it,” said Robynn Sadler, Programs Manager. “Chad’s role will be an important part of strengthening the support we provide to Indigenous youth and early-stage entrepreneurs. He brings practical experience, a welcoming presence, and a strong understanding of the Indigenous entrepreneurship ecosystem. I’m looking forward to supporting his work as he helps us continue creating spaces where participants feel supported, encouraged, and ready to take their next steps.”
As Launchpad enters this next chapter, Chad’s experience and approachable way of working will help support Indigenous youth and early-stage entrepreneurs as they explore their ideas, build confidence, and take meaningful steps in their business journeys.
Please join us in welcoming Chad to the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation team.