WHY THIS PARTNERSHIP MATTERS

Since 2018, MEC has been a cornerstone of POW Canada, helping us grow and strengthen our movement. Their support fuels our education, DEI initiatives, and fundraising efforts, making climate advocacy more accessible and impactful.

“MEC recognizes the need for change and the importance of rallying our community around the issues and impacts of climate change. As an outdoor retailer, we depend upon healthy and diverse ecosystems, love and respect for outdoor spaces, and organizations like POW Canada who are committed to protecting it. Actioning real change requires support and engagement from all levels of industry, and we're proud to be a part of this movement.” Caitlin Brown, Senior Community Marketing Manager, MEC.

WHAT WE LIKE ABOUT MEC

There are so many reasons we love MEC, but two stand out above all:

• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Making the Outdoors for Everyone: MEC is committed to breaking down barriers and ensuring the outdoors is welcoming for all. They amplify underrepresented voices and prioritize accessibility in their gear, partnerships, and initiatives—aligning with our vision for inclusive climate advocacy. With MEC’s support, everyone has a seat at the table in the fight against climate change.
• Community Building: Bringing People Together for a Common Cause: MEC is more than a retailer—it’s a hub for adventure, advocacy, and connection. Through stores, events, and collaborations, they create spaces for learning, sharing, and action. Their support has helped transform outdoor enthusiasts into a mobilized force for climate advocacy.

WHAT WE'VE ACCOMPLISHED TOGETHER

Annual Season Openers - (2019 – NOW) After starting our partnership in 2018, we launched what would later become our annual MEC x POW Season Opener events. These events are the kick-off to winter, hosted at MEC stores across the country with thought-provoking films, conversations around climate change, pro athletes, giveaways -all while raising funds for POW and rallying the community to take meaningful climate action.  2024 Impact: 9 locations |  1,130 participants | $43,300 raised Since 2019: 28 events | 4,231 attendees | $123,969 raised

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Beyond (2021 – NOW)

POW Canada recognized that we needed to do better in creating a more inclusive approach to our strategies—because the fight against climate change needs everyone on board. MEC has been instrumental in helping us make that shift, supporting the development of our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity approach. With their support, we've been able to build a strong strategy and DEI Plan that amplifies underrepresented voices in the outdoor and climate spaces, fosters meaningful community engagement, and breaks down barriers to participation. Their support goes beyond funding; they’ve helped us rethink how we connect with and mobilize people from all backgrounds, ensuring that our movement is stronger, more diverse, and more effective in protecting the places we love.

Garage Sale (2022 & 2023) Since launching in 2022, our Annual Garage Sale fundraiser has become a cornerstone event for rallying our community and raising critical funds—and MEC has been with us every step of the way. They’ve supported the campaign by providing an incredible gear package. They’ve also played a huge role in amplifying the fundraiser through ambassador content and promotion, making sure it reaches as many people as possible.

Enthusiast To Advocate Program (2022 – NOW)

Launched in 2022, this program equips outdoor enthusiasts with the knowledge and tools to become effective climate advocates. Thanks to MEC’s support, we’ve created educational videos that simplify climate advocacy, empowering our community to engage policymakers, mobilize networks, and drive real impact.

Learn more about the program here.

Product Collaboration - Toaster Suit and Cozy Crew (2024) In 2024, we were beyond stoked to launch a game-changing collaboration: the limited edition MEC x POW Collection. This partnership brings together MEC’s expertise in high-quality outdoor gear with POW’s mission to drive climate action, merging their iconic kids' snow collection with our commitment to policy solutions for climate change. This collection is designed to inspire the next generation of environmental advocates. Every purchase from this collection funds programs that educate, mobilize, and drive real policy change.  SHOP THE COLLECTION!