Danielle Boyer Wins 2026 Pow Wow Pitch Prize

The Troy-based founder receives $25,000 to advance technology education for Indigenous youth.

Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Native American

Bold vector editorial illustration showing a robotic circuit model kit accented with stylized beadwork patterns, representing STEM education for Indigenous youth. — Danielle Boyer, founder of The STEAM Connection, won the 2026 Pow Wow Pitch grand prize, securing $25,000 for Indigenous youth technology education. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Danielle Boyer, an enrolled citizen of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians and founder of The STEAM Connection, won the 2026 Pow Wow Pitch grand prize. The award provides $25,000 to help expand access to essential technology resources for Indigenous students.

Why it matters

This funding allows for the expansion of specialized educational tools tailored to Indigenous youth. The initiative supports closing the digital divide and enhancing STEM learning opportunities within these communities.

The grand prize total for the 2026 competition is $25,000. These funds are designated for the expansion of The STEAM Connection, an organization based in Troy.

The players

Danielle Boyer

She is an enrolled citizen of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians and the founder of the nonprofit organization The STEAM Connection.

The STEAM Connection

This Troy-based organization works to increase access to technology and robotics education for students.

The details

Danielle Boyer, who founded the nonprofit The STEAM Connection in Troy, Michigan, earned the top honor at this year's competition. The prize money will be directly invested into scaling technology initiatives aimed at supporting the next generation of Indigenous creators and innovators.

October 21, 2026: Danielle Boyer was announced as the winner of the Pow Wow Pitch grand prize.

Culture Shift

This achievement highlights the ongoing expansion of STEM outreach programs for underserved youth, reflecting a broader movement toward equitable technology access. It marks a significant milestone that validates Indigenous-led efforts to bridge the digital divide in modern education.

Residents in Troy may see increased activity or program availability as The STEAM Connection utilizes the grant to scale its operations. This development represents a tangible boost to local educational resources that focus on specialized technical training.

The takeaway

Supporting grassroots educational initiatives is a proven strategy for fostering long-term interest in technology careers among young students. Consider exploring local mentorship or volunteer opportunities to contribute to STEM programs within your own community.