Sudbury Startup Summit 2026

Trisha Pitura is a proud member of Nipissing First Nation and a Co-Founder of MINI TIPI, where she leads as the Creative Director. Her creative path began with a desire to learn traditional skills practiced by her grandmothers, especially sewing and quilting. This hands-on curiosity soon evolved into a deeper connection with textile design and a meaningful journey of cultural reconnection.

In 2019, Trisha created MINI TIPI’s first exclusive design for the Signature collection, launching a new direction for the company rooted in authenticity and cultural integrity. Her work today blends traditional knowledge, Indigenous teachings, and storytelling into textiles that both inspire and educate. She collaborates closely with Indigenous artists and knowledge keepers to ensure every design respectfully honours its source.

Trisha has been recognized for her leadership and impact as an Entrepreneur-in-Residence at Adaawe Hub, a recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal, and a Pow Wow Pitch Competition Judge. She has also shared her voice on panels at national conferences such as Indigenomics SHE and DEFY.

Through MINI TIPI, Trisha remains committed to using design as a tool for representation, empowerment, and reconciliation—helping to build bridges between cultures while celebrating the beauty and strength of Indigenous identity.

Dr. Joseph Eibl is CEO and co-founder of Flosonics Medical, the Sudbury-based maker of FloPatch wearable Doppler ultrasound. Since co-founding the company in Sudbury in 2015, he has grown it into a venture-backed medical device company while keeping its headquarters in Northern Ontario. He leads the company’s technology, IP, and business strategy, and holds a PhD in Biomolecular Sciences with postdoctoral training in bioengineering.