Originally published in 2023. Updated July 2025 for context.
The North Forge Indigenous Entrepreneur Scholarship continues to support Indigenous creators by providing access to the FabLab™—one of North America’s largest rapid prototyping facilities—alongside mentorship and entrepreneurial training. This year’s recipients, Chantel Wilson and Adrian Alphonso, have each received a full access pass to North Forge’s state-of-the-art FabLab™, located in the heart of Winnipeg’s Exchange District.
Supporting Innovation Through Access
Funded by Indigenous Business Development Services and Community Futures Manitoba, this scholarship was created to eliminate financial barriers for Indigenous entrepreneurs. It offers access to tools, training, and mentorship at no cost for one year, enabling recipients to innovate in a safe, inclusive, and collaborative space.
Chantel Wilson: Honouring Tradition with Technology
Founder of Our Native Exquisite, Chantel Wilson has been crafting handmade moccasins and mukluks for over a decade. The scholarship marks a pivotal moment in her journey.
“I’ve known about this makerspace for a while now, but this year it came down to either moving to Calgary or staying in Manitoba—and getting this scholarship felt meant to be,” she shared.
At the FabLab™, Wilson plans to use the laser cutter to streamline the pattern-cutting process and the commercial sewing machine to accelerate moccasin assembly. This will free up her time to focus on the intricate details that define her handcrafted work.
Adrian Alphonso: Bicycles as a Tool for Change
Adrian Alphonso brings deep knowledge of bicycles and community to his project. He aims to design a bike frame for the people, by the people, specifically addressing the needs of First Nations communities where safe cycling infrastructure is often lacking.
“I do not need to reinvent the wheel or reinvent the bicycle,” said Alphonso. “I am here to solve problems that are currently in the bicycle industry and to remove barriers.”
With access to North Forge’s equipment and mentorship, he plans to design a frame that is both accessible and practical—an innovation that could have a significant impact in remote and underserved areas.
Investing in a Stronger Future
By supporting Wilson and Alphonso through the North Forge Indigenous Entrepreneur Scholarship, we invest in a future where Indigenous innovation and creativity are nurtured and celebrated.
Want to learn more about how the FabLab™ helps innovators bring their ideas to life?
Explore the North Forge FabLab™ and learn how to become a member.
