Legacy Builders 2015
Celebrating Ontario’s legacy builders
© 2015 Ernst & Young LLP. All Rights Reserved. “Entrepreneur Of The Year” is a registered trademark of EYGN Limited.
Proudly honouring energy, passion and innovation
Special supplement published by OT Communications.
Celebrating Canada’s entrepreneurial stars Canada’s top entrepreneurs truly are stars of the business world. They burn brightly and light the way for others. They soar across the landscape, each one unique. They shine with an intensity unmatched by others, in an environment where the sky is no limit. Everyone looks up to the brightest entrepreneurial stars. That’s why EY is proud to support and guide Canada’s best and brightest entrepreneurs. For over 20 years, we’ve honoured their achievements with the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year® Awards. The legacies these men and women are creating stand as inspiration to future generations of entrepreneurs, just as they’ve been driven to succeed by the innovators of the past. They’re always searching for better — probing paths less travelled and transforming the world with new ideas, products, services and ways of doing business. Storytelling is a powerful thing. I encourage you to read the stories in these pages of this year’s award finalists. I have no doubt you’ll be inspired by their passion and energy. These stars are certainly ones worth looking up to. Great stars need a supporting cast. We’re thankful to the sponsors who have joined us to shine the spotlight on the legacy builders. This year’s national program sponsors are TEC Canada, La Presse, RDI, TMX, Merrill DataSite, Kira Talent, Air Canada and The Printing House Limited. Our regional sponsors are Captivate Network, OT Communications and RBC Royal Bank. I invite you to join us to celebrate entrepreneurial success at the Ontario awards gala in Toronto on 29 October 2015. For tickets and more information, contact Julie Olden at julie.olden@ca.ey.com. Colleen McMorrow National and Ontario Director, EY Entrepreneur Of The Year
Table of Contents Meet the 2015 Ontario EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Judges – page 4 Meet the EY Strategic Growth Markets/Middle Market team in Ontario – page 13 Special Citation - Social Entrepreneur Michel Labbé - Options for Homes - Non-Profit Corporation - page 5
Media and Entertainment Vince Commisso - 9 Story Media Group - page 6 | Jan Kestle - Environics Analytics - page 8 Brett Farren - Match Marketing Group - page 10
Consumer Products and Services Hemant Bhagwani - Amaya Group of Restaurants - page 12 Marc Anthony - Marc Anthony Cosmetics Inc. - page 14 | Kevin Martin - Martin’s Family Fruit Farm - page 16 Norman Hardie - Norman Hardie Winery and Vineyard - page 17
Manufacturing Bob Peacock - ALMAG Aluminum - page 18 | Steve Blanchet - CSR Cosmetic Solutions Inc. - page 20 Michael G. Solcz - Valiant Corporation - page 22
Emerging Entrepreneur Jacqueline Prehogan - Canada Pooch Ltd. - page 24 | Andrew Hoffman - CentreCourt Developments Inc. - page 25 Justin Creally and Mia Pearson - North Strategic - page 26 | Simon Nyilassy - Regal Lifestyle Communities Inc. - page 28
Special Citation - Entrepreneurial Community Builder Cyril Leeder - Ottawa Senators Hockey Club - page 29
Young Entrepreneur Grant Belanger and Leen Meyer - EasyInsure - page 30 | Jordan Hyde - GoDay.ca - page 31 Hooman Bahador, Geordie Konrad and William Konrad - Konrad Group - page 32 Stephen Lake - Thalmic Labs - page 34
Technology Neil Cawse - Geotab, Inc. - page 36 | Carl Rodrigues - SOTI - page 38 | Jason Flick - You.i TV - page 40
Health Sciences Dr. Jan Oudenes - Alphora Research Inc. - page 42 Dr. Jeff Daiter and Dr. Michael Varenbut - Canadian Addiction Treatment Centres - page 44 Dr. Steven Stein - MHS Assesments - page 46
Technology Enabled Services Nan Chen, Ron Gavillet, Ed Ogonek - CENX Inc. - page 48 | Chris Sukornyk - Chango Inc. - page 49 Ata Moeini and Neda Moeini - GL | Group of Gold Line - page 50
Business Services Orin Litman - VetStrategy - page 52 | Rubsun Ho and Joseph Milstone - Cognition LLP - page 54 Graham Rosenberg - dentalcorp - page 56 | Alex Haditaghi - Pacific Mortgage Group - page 58 Published by O.T. Communications | www.otcommunications.com | Canadian publications mail sales product agreement No. 41126516
Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to circulation dept. - 1025 101 6th Ave. SW, Calgary, AB T2P 3P4 | info@businessincalgary.com
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
3
To judge talent, you need lots of it. It takes talent to know talent. We couldn’t celebrate Ontario’s brightest entrepreneurs without the powerful insights of our judges. We’re truly grateful.
Special citation — Social entrepreneur judges
Andy Burgess Managing Partner, Russell Square Partners
Ontario 2006 winner, Media and Entertainment
Jill Denham
Corporate Director
Jon Hantho
President and Chief Executive Officer Maxxam Analytics Ontario 2012 winner, Services 2012 National Citation honouree, Leadership 2016 EY NextGen Club Award judge
Jim Orlando
Managing Director OMERS Ventures
Jeff Parr
Allyson Hewitt
Tracie Tighe
John Mighton
Co-CEO and Managing Director Clairvest Group Inc.
Executive Producer, Dragons’ Den CBC
Social Fellow, Social Innovation MaRS Discovery District
Founder JUMP math
2014 National Citation honouree, Social Entrepreneurship
Greg Overholt Founder Students Offering Support
2011 Ontario Citation honouree, Social Entrepreneurship
Nancy Wright Vice President, Marketing GLOBE Foundation
Business-to-Consumer Special Citation Products Social Entrepreneur and Services
Michel Labbé Options for Homes Toronto
O
ptions for Homes strives and succeeds at making the real estate market accessible for people and families in a range of income brackets. This business has been Michel Labbé’s heart and soul since its launch 23 years ago. Labbé’s efforts have seen over 6,500 moderate to low income families become homeowners in Canada. Are entrepreneurs born or made? You are born with the talents you need, but a good entrepreneur knows they need to learn from other successful entrepreneurs. What’s next for the business? To teach our approach to multiple countries around the world. How are you reshaping the world? We are showing people an alternative way to manage wealth. What did you want to be when you were a kid? At 16, it was something that would do the most good for the most people. No one was more surprised than me when it ended up being housing. To what do you attribute your success? Trustworthiness. We have to work with many players who often lend us money. If they did not trust that we would succeed, we would not be here.
What’s your legacy?
“The companies that I pass on to others and a growing pool of social capital in many countries around the world.“
What’s the toughest feedback you’ve ever received and how did you learn from it? The failure of two of our initial three developments was very hard to take and we had to really examine ourselves and what had gone wrong to start getting it right more often.
Our plans for growth in the next 10 years will be responding to the invitations we currently have from several countries to come and establish Options for Homes there, as well as additional invitations that I suspect will be coming as a result of our successes.
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
5
Media and Entertainment
Vince Commisso 9 Story Media Group Toronto
U
nder the leadership of President and Chief Executive Officer Vince Commisso, 9 Story Media Group creates, produces and distributes award-winning animated and live-action content for young audiences around the globe. To date, 9 Story Media has produced over 900 episodes of award-winning shows including Wild Kratts, Peg + Cat and Camp Lakebottom. Commisso strives for perfection every day, believing that success means always exceeding the status quo. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? All my life! As a child, I aspired to be like my favourite comic book superheroes that had parttime jobs so they could go out superheroing all the time! I wanted to be in a position to create value for myself. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Stubbornness and perseverance. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? We need to figure out new models for ideas that deserve support and we need to be more innovative.
What’s your legacy?
“Creating a company that has generated so much entertainment and employed great artists.“
What did you want to be when you were a kid? The alter egos of my comic book heroes, most of whom were scientists. Turns out I wasn’t very good at science, though. To what do you attribute your success? Executing things well, having good people and building successful relationships. What motivates you? Competition. When you understand the rules of the game, it comes down to execution – and execution is all about competition.
My advice for other entrepreneurs is to go find a business you have a passion for; it is the principal difference between success and failure. When you get knocked down, you must get back up. Passion for the fight is what will lift you back up.
6
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
At 9 Story, we have always believed in three core principles:
hire great people, establish strong relationships and create the best shows possible. We describe this as simple, but not easy. The honour of being selected as a finalist for EY Entrepreneur Of The Year is a true testament to our amazing team, the relationships we have built and our best in class programs. I share this recognition with every person who has contributed to 9 Story’s success and want to take this opportunity to thank our staff, our clients and my family.
23 Fraser Ave, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M6K 1Y7 416-530-9900 • 416-530-9935 • info@9story.com
www.9story.com
Media and Entertainment
Jan Kestle Environics Analytics Toronto
E
nvironics Analytics is one of Canada’s premier marketing and analytical services companies, helping clients to identify marketing challenges and providing consulting services, data, cutting-edge technology and custom solutions. Founder and President Jan Kestle launched the company in 2003. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? To be a successful entrepreneur, I had to trust my instincts, partner with and hire the best people I could find, and stick to the business plan I had developed, despite all obstacles. What’s unique about your business? We use statistics and math to help solve business problems. What are common misconceptions about your business/entrepreneurship in general? The most common misconception is “build it and they will come.” Creating cool stuff doesn’t mean an entrepreneur will succeed. How are you accelerating growth in Canada? We’ve combined our comprehensive databases about Canadian consumers with our marketing and analytics expertise into accessible software-as-a-service, which puts actionable, advanced analytics at the fingertips of Canadian marketers.
What’s your legacy?
“Providing actionable results that help businesses go from data to insight to strategy to results.“
What have you done to ensure your company remains innovative and entrepreneurial? Every year, we add new products and services; we also listen to the market by meeting with a customer advisory board four times a year. What was your first job? In 1969, I worked as a statistical clerk in the Province of Ontario’s Statistical Centre. Who has been your greatest inspiration? My dad. He tackled every challenge the same way in business and in life. The greatest inspiration to me was how much he valued people and treated them with respect.
My best advice for entrepreneurs is to define your dream, partner with the smartest people you can find and don’t give up. 8
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
Media and Entertainment
Brett Farren Match Marketing Group Mississauga
M
atch Marketing Group inspires purchases through seamless experiences, insights, strategies, merchandising and activation. Founder and CEO Brett Farren’s mantra for his company is to make progress every day, every month, every year; therefore, a major focus has been placed on promoting personal and professional growth of individuals and the teams that they work in. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? I’ve always known that I wanted to be an entrepreneur and was fortunate to be brought up in a family where both my parents owned their own businesses. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Courage, perseverance and a relentless commitment to innovation. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? We have an exceptional education system, a stable financial infrastructure that allows for risk and government-backed programs. What’s the one thing that you cannot live without? Family. My wife Sarah and my daughters Indianna and Alexandra are my foundation and greatest achievement. Outside of family, I cannot live without creative freedom.
What’s your legacy?
“Providing employees with a rich and rewarding experience working on worldclass brands and marketing programs.“
What funding methods have you used over the years? Until very recently, I have always been self-funded. Recently, I partnered with a private equity firm to raise additional capital to continue our growth. What motivates you? Creativity and innovation.
My best advice for entrepreneurs is that you can never time the market and it’s never too late to pursue your dream. If you fail, minimize the collateral damage and launch again. Ensure that you have a support network that will embrace your dream, and understand that the road will be long and filled with sacrifice. The reward is in the journey, people and experiences along the way. 10
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
Consumer Products and Services
Hemant Bhagwani Amaya Group of Restaurants East York
H
emant Bhagwani, founder of Amaya Group of Restaurants, has a vision of Indian food and the spirit of India finding a place in every home and business in the country. The Indian culture is known for its warm hospitality, and when you imagine that warmth, you can’t help but recall the rich aromas and wonderful memories you’ve shared over that food. So what’s the goal? Spread the warmth. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Some entrepreneurs are born, some are made and some have entrepreneurship thrust upon them! What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? The right behaviour, which leads to the right attitude, which leads to the motivation required to succeed. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? Canada has the right banking system to support small businesses and entrepreneurs. The system needs to be developed further. What’s your most difficult career experience and what did you learn from it? Opening my first restaurant and failing. I learned that a strong business plan and a bit of luck are both very important.
What’s your legacy?
“Taking ethnic food to such a level that it becomes mainstream and common in every household.“
What’s your dream vacation? Backpacking around the world with no phone and no Internet; learning about the world’s cuisines in a hands-on manner. Who’s your greatest inspiration? My father is my greatest inspiration.
The best advice I can give to other entrepreneurs is to always follow your passion, stay dedicated and stay focused.
12
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
Meet the EY Strategic Growth Markets/Middle Market team in Ontario
Colleen McMorrow
Andrew Cochran
National and Ontario Director, EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Canadian Leader, Strategic Growth Markets 416 943 2718 colleen.m.mcmorrow@ca.ey.com
Canadian Leader, Venture Capital 416 943 2251 andrew.cochran@ca.ey.com
Julie Olden
Bill Demers
National and Ontario Specialist, EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 416 943 2062 julie.olden@ca.ey.com
Canadian Leader, IPO 416 943 3055 bill.l.demers@ca.ey.com
Kevin Casey
David Fabian
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Leader — Waterloo Region 519 571 3311 kevin.j.casey@ca.ey.com
National Co-Leader, Private Mid-Market Pracctice 416 932 6250 david.fabian@ca.ey.com
Warren Granger
Humayun Jafrani
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Leader — London 519 646 5534 warren.granger@ca.ey.com
Strategic Growth Market/Middle Market Co-Leader, Financial Services 416 943 3735 humayun.jafrani@ca.ey.com
Matthew Pearson EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Leader — Ottawa 613 598 4354 matthew.pearson@ca.ey.com
Carrie Marchitto Canadian Program Sponsor, EY Entrepreneurial Winning Women 416 943 3374 carrie.l.marchitto@ca.ey.com
Joe Micallef
Essential links: Strategic Growth Markets: ey.com/SGM Entrepreneur Of The Year: ey.com/ca/EOY Private Mid-Markets: ey.com/ca/PMM EY NextGen Academy: ey-nextgen.com EY Strategic Growth Forum: ey.com/us/sgf
Strategic Growth Market/Middle Market Co-Leader,Financial Services 416 943 3494 joseph.n.micallef@ca.ey.com
David Steinberg National Co-Leader, Private Mid-Market Pracctice 416 932 6206 david.a.steinberg@ca.ey.com
Joe Telebar Canadian Leader, Private Equity 416 943 3527 joe.m.telebar@ca.ey.com
Consumer Products and Services
Marc Anthony Marc Anthony Cosmetics Inc. Concord
M
arc Anthony is a brand known the world over for its hair and body care innovations, and at the helm is Marc Anthony himself. Through hard work and no shortage of determination and life-shaping experiences, he has built an empire in the beauty industry: an empire with its eyes on the horizon. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? I lost my father at 16 years of age. As the eldest child I felt an obligation to care for my family. I took on the challenge and set my dreams on building a global company. Are entrepreneurs born or made? They are made. At a young age my mother instilled confidence, optimism and the attitude within me that I could accomplish anything I set my mind to. What’s next for the business? To grow from the 20 countries we are in to 50 countries and to expand in other areas of beauty. What would winning Entrepreneur Of The Year mean to you? It would be a rewarding recognition of my life’s work and the team that has been by my side to make it all happen. What have you done to ensure your company remains innovative and entrepreneurial? Never sleep, never be satisfied. I never stop thinking and listening to my team and customers.
What’s your legacy?
“Giving back and instilling optimism, passion, confidence and entrepreneurial leadership in my children and the youth of today.“
What’s the one thing you cannot live without? My family and friends.
My best advice for other entrepreneurs is to find what you love and then surround yourself with positive, passionate and tenacious people. Never give up on your dreams.
14
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
Consumer Products and Services
Kevin Martin Martin’s Family Fruit Farm Waterloo
K
evin Martin, President, heads the second generation of Martin’s Family Fruit Farm in Waterloo, Ontario. Martin has passion and pride for farming and provides quality and specialized customer service. It’s how the 700-acre operation continues to grow as one of the largest growers, packers and shippers in Canada and North America. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Both. There are certain skills and character traits that you are born with, but life and career experiences usually continue to develop an entrepreneur. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Have a big picture. There must be flexibility and nimbleness in business. Multitasking is important, as is a high tolerance for risk. How are you accelerating growth in Canada? By creating new products like Martin’s Crispy Apple Chips, we’ve created more uses for Canadian apples as well as a product that is able to be exported all over the world. That one product has enabled 30 new jobs. What funding methods have you used over the years? Over the years, we have predominantly used debt financing from banks as well as some private investments. To what do you attribute your success? Much of the Martin’s success is attributed to my father, Leighton. In the ’70s, he used his own great entrepreneurial spirit to get us into the apple industry. It’s also attributed to the great people we have working in our organization, who share the company vision.
What’s your legacy?
“I would like my legacy to be that I’ve made a significant impact on the Canadian apple industry by helping to ensure that apple growing is a sustainable form of Canadian agriculture.“
How do you define success? It’s internal. At the end of every day I can look at myself in the mirror and know that I’ve given it my absolute best effort.
My advice for other entrepreneurs is to surround yourself with people who are smarter than you.
16
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
Business-to-Consumer Consumer Products and Products Services and Services
Norman Hardie Norman Hardie Winery and Vineyard Wellington
H
ead viniculturalist (vineyard and wine making) Norman Hardie’s unfaltering commitment to quality has enabled him to craft world-class wines in Prince Edward County, Ontario. Founded in 2002, the production is now in its 11th vintage this year, producing upwards of 10,000 cases for sale across the globe. What’s unique about your business? It is a multifaceted trade: we plant, grow, harvest, process, package and market. We must be strongly skilled in all areas, from start to finish. What makes you stand out from others? I continue to invest in my own skill set and surround myself with diverse talents to make sure all areas of the business are strong. How are you accelerating growth in Canada? Every bottle of wine produced in Ontario contributes over $85.39 to the Canadian economy and replaces wine imports. We sold well over 100,000 bottles in the last two years. What have you done to ensure your company remains innovative and entrepreneurial? I hire innovative, eager personalities, often from outside the field of winemaking. Their dynamism and depth provide fresh perspectives and progressive ideas. What was your most difficult career experience and what did you learn from it? I had to fight for VQA acceptance of my 2008 County Chardonnay. It was economically challenging, but it became Matt Kramer’s Wine Spectator wine of the year. I learned how much dedication, determination and vision entrepreneurship requires.
What’s your legacy?
“My team works tirelessly to advance Canada’s reputation as a producer of highquality wines that speak of place, both on the international stage and at home.“
What motivates you? My determination to craft great wines that express the tremendous potential of our soils and to make a difference in the lives of those my business supports.
My best advice for entrepreneurs is that your work must be a work of love. You will need passion and drive to propel you to success. EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
17
Manufacturing
Bob Peacock ALMAG Aluminum Brampton
B
ob Peacock believes in being the best. At only 28 years old, he became the president of ALMAG Aluminum, an aluminum extrusion manufacturing company founded in 1953. As a result of Peacock’s leadership, out-ofthe-box thinking, a relentless drive for success and forward-thinking philosophy, ALMAG has grown substantially. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Patience, tenacity and self-confidence with humility. What makes you stand out from others? ALMAG strives to provide the highest value, not the lowest up-front price. We foster an environment in which our staff takes great pride in being the best. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? We need to share our success stories. There are many of them. There is a misconception that Canada is not competitive on the world stage, but Canadians are innovative, creative and diplomatic. To what do you attribute your success? As corny as it sounds, the “golden rule.” I believe in treating others as I would like to be treated.
What’s your legacy?
“Fostering an environment of growth and success for customers, suppliers and employees.“
What’s the toughest feedback you’ve ever received and how did you learn from it? I failed a term of my engineering program and had to repeat it. I learned that, while extracurricular activities are important, one has to maintain focus – keep the main thing the main thing. How do you define success? If I can leave the business world having created a better life for my family, my employees and my community, I will have been successful.
My best advice for entrepreneurs is to listen to your customers, passionately pursue your ideas and share your success with the people who help you achieve it!
18
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
Congratulates all EY Entrepreneur Of The Year finalists and award recipients!
Manufacturing
Steve Blanchet CSR Cosmetic Solutions Inc. Barrie
F
or over 60 years, CSR Cosmetic Solutions Inc. has set the bar for what it means to be an industry leader. Through formulating, manufacturing and filling, this company competes on the global stage, led by President and CEO Steve Blanchet. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Vision, determination, strength and flexibility to see and change directions when necessary. Common misconceptions about your business/ entrepreneurship in general? That our business is a local company with a small market when, in fact, we are an organization dealing with multinational marketing companies on a worldwide scale. What’s next for the business? Expansion into more manufacturing platforms outside of Canada. This will bring growth and stability as markets become more globally based. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? Consistent guidelines and laws that allow Canadians to be competitive on a worldwide basis is required. What have you done to ensure your company remains innovative and entrepreneurial? We have created an innovation department that works with our R&D resources to keep CSR competitive and we reinvest in the company constantly to ensure we have resources to exercise our business/growth strategy. What’s the toughest feedback you’ve ever received and how did you learn from it? Someone I respected in business said I couldn’t be successful and the business was doomed. It made me step back and review my decision, which only made me more resolved to succeed. Don’t be dissuaded easily. My best advice for other entrepreneurs is apply due diligence to your business initiative to be sure it is sound, and surround yourself with people you trust, who have strengths and resources that you don’t.
20
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
What’s your legacy? “Hopefully I will be recognized for building a business from small origins into a globally recognized manufacturing company that has created employment and prosperity for all associated with it. My dedication to community through volunteer work and the success of my family will also speak volumes.“
I would like to thank EY for being selected as a finalist for the Entrepreneur Of The Year in Ontario. This program is incredibly important and encourages leaders to become more entrepreneurial in all aspects of our business and daily lives. As well I would like to recognize all of our partners (employees, suppliers and customers) of CSR. Their dedication and commitment to constant improvement has been truly a empowering experience and has paved the way for continued success.
149 Victoria Street Barrie, ON L4N 2J6 • 705.728.5917
csrcs.ca
Manufacturing
Michael G. Solcz Valiant Corporation Windsor
V
aliant Corporation, led by Chairman Michael G. Solcz and his highly skilled team of professionals, is globally recognized for the innovative process and design of equipment for the auto, aerospace and off-road equipment industries. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Entrepreneurs must have a skill, trade, profession or an idea with the vision and passion to succeed and the energy to be persistent and never give up. What’s unique about your business? It’s a highly technical business employing creative people in electrical and mechanical engineering, process and design, skilled tool makers, machine operators and builders, welders and project managers. How are you reshaping the world? With 23 facilities in 13 countries, Valiant is being recognized on a global basis by being established in Canada, USA, Mexico, Spain, Italy, Belgium, Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, Romania, Russia, Brazil and China. To what do you attribute your success? Employees, supplier and customer loyalty, and the fact that we deliver state-ofthe-art automated production systems and tooling with high quality.
What’s your legacy?
“I want to be known as one who has a passion for quality, customer service, skills, training development and philanthropy.“
Looking back, what is one thing that you would do differently? Implement a succession plan 15 years sooner. What motivates you? Our customer’s expression of satisfaction in fulfilling their requirements and the willingness of our employees to grow our company globally.
My advice for entrepreneurs is that success is having a business capable of earning sufficient capital so employees are paid competitive wages and are rewarded for exceptional performance, and the business provides viable returns to its stakeholders.
22
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
Automated production systems and tooling powering the future of manufacturing INDUSTRIES WE SERVE Automotive Aerospace and Defense Heavy Equipment Alternative Energy Consumer Products
PRODUCTS AND SOLUTIONS Welding and Joining Systems Assembly and Test Systems
I am honoured to be selected as a finalist for
Material Handling Systems
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
Industrial Parts Washers Molds and Composites
A sincere thank you to the entire team at Valiant, past and present, for
Fixtures, Tools and Gages
your hard work and dedication. Your commitment to innovation and
Fabrication and Heavy Machining
customer satisfaction has led to our continuous success and growth.
FULL-SERVICE GLOBAL SUPPLIER Engineering and Design Manufacturing
I would like to thank and recognize EY for promoting and celebrating the spirit of entrepreneurship. Special thanks to Michael Sauro for the nomination.
Programming and Integration Installation and Production Support
Michael G. Solcz
Documentation and Training
Founder and Chairman Emeritus
Spare Parts and After Sales Service
6555 Hawthorne Drive, Windsor, Ontario, Canada N8T 3G6 Phone 519.974.5200 / Toll Free 1.888.VALIANT info@valiantmachine.com
www.valiantcorp.com Canada USA Mexico Austria Belgium Czech Republic Germany Italy Romania Russia Spain China India
We provide innovative solutions to enable our customers to build products better.
Emerging Entrepreneur
Jacqueline Prehogan Canada Pooch Ltd. Toronto
J
acqueline Prehogan had a quirky, bright idea that became a Canadian business success story. Canada Pooch is a Torontobased designer and manufacturer of high-quality, fashionable and functional pet outerwear and accessories. What’s next for the business? A complete brand refresh this winter with new products, a new website, new packaging and a new partnership with Roots Canada. What makes you stand out from others? Pet products are held to a lower standard than “people” products. At Canada Pooch, it’s the opposite. The design, quality and functionality of our products exceeds expectations. How are you accelerating growth in Canada? We are accelerating growth by broadening our product assortment and delivering on our trademark of quality and design in these new categories. What’s the one thing that you cannot live without? I cannot live without our three pugs: Maddie, Bella and Duncan. What have you done to ensure your company remains innovative and entrepreneurial? Innovation is critical to our success. It is our foundation. Developing and sharing ideas, continual learning and exploration, and a passion for animals is engrained in our culture. To what do you attribute your success? I attribute Canada Pooch’s success to a fundamental love of animals. It’s helped me to understand what pets need and what pet parents want. We also have amazing partners and team members.
My advice for other entrepreneurs is to know your company values and stick to them, and to consistently communicate with your team. The goal is for every member of the organization to make decisions that align with the company’s values.
24
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
What’s your legacy?
“Building a brand that has become a household name for pet parents. If we stick to our values and remain committed to quality and innovation for pets, the Canada Pooch brand will live on for a long time.“
Business-to-Consumer Emerging Entrepreneur Products and Services
Andrew Hoffman CentreCourt Developments Inc. Toronto
S
tarting with just one project and one employee in 2010, Andrew Hoffman built his high-rise condo development company, CentreCourt, from the ground up. Today, the company has five condominium projects in developments throughout downtown Toronto. At CentreCourt, Hoffman leads by encouraging debate and different points of view, which leads to constant innovation with each project. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Creativity and perseverance. What’s unique about your business? We build homes, which means we’re making decisions that people quite literally live with, day in and day out, for years to come. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? Integrity — Canada has a strong culture of honesty and cooperation, which is reflected in the way we run our businesses and contributes to our success. What’s the one thing you cannot live without? My family. Marrying my wife is the best decision I’ve ever made, and we are blessed with two wonderful daughters. What funding methods have you used over the years? I have strong support from institutional capital partners who provide the required project capital. What have you done to ensure your company remains innovative and entrepreneurial? Hiring bright, talented and young individuals who are committed to our corporate philosophy but are not afraid to speak their minds and challenge convention.
What’s your legacy?
“Contributing to the vibrancy and sustainability of Toronto and creating spaces that are an integral part of the urban fabric that help make Toronto such a great city.“
It’s often tempting to grow quickly. However, it’s important to establish a solid foundation (pardon the construction pun!) before attempting to significantly expand. We’ll only grow the business if we can ensure that we are able to achieve the same level of quality, oversight and financial metrics as we currently have.
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
25
Emerging Entrepreneur
Justin Creally and Mia Pearson North Strategic Toronto
N
orth Strategic helps brands navigate the brave new world. North develops social-bydesign marketing programs that stand out and connect brands to consumers. Since launching the company in 2011, co-founders Justin Creally and Mia Pearson and have grown the roster of clients to include several of the most valuable brands in Canada. What’s unique about your business? Creally: We launched the new agency with no time sheets and opted for a “value for results” model that no one else in Canada is doing. Pearson: We disrupt marketplaces and bring in new business models that traditional companies have not been bold enough to do. What’s next for the business? Creally: We have built two high-growth creative companies already and there is room for more disruption and growth in ancillary businesses. Pearson: Continued growth and expansion by continuing to sign the biggest brands in the world as clients. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? Creally: Better funding support opportunities. Pearson: Create stronger partnerships between successful business leaders and the next generation of leaders. What have you done to ensure your company remains innovative and entrepreneurial? Creally: We spend a lot of time networking with creative leaders in Canada and the US. Pearson: We meet regularly to look at future opportunities to keep the company at the forefront.
What’s your legacy?
“Giving employees an education and mentorship in entrepreneurship and running a business. To inspire them to follow their dreams and create incredible businesses on their own one day.“
What motivates you? Creally: Growth and providing exciting career opportunities for our team. Pearson: Success. We love to win! How do you define success? Creally: When we grow and develop our young employees who help create a fast-growing, high-performance company. Pearson: When our company is recognized internationally for our work and performance.
Our best advice for other entrepreneurs is to do it. Go all in, 100%. 26
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
Unlocking your growth potential Whatever your growth aspirations — whether it’s to grow from local to global, from private to public, from challenger to leader, or from millions to billions — we can help you achieve your goals. We asked entrepreneurs from startup to standout what they needed to accelerate growth. We’ve developed the 7 drivers of growth to help companies align their capabilities with their growth strategy. Written by: Colleen McMorrow National Director, EY Entrepreneur Of The Year, Canadian Leader, Strategic Growth Markets, EY
1
Customer
2
From the outset, leading companies make customers their focal point. They understand that by putting customers’ needs and desires first, they can achieve a competitive advantage. Even after becoming market leaders, these companies are constantly thinking about how to keep engaging and delighting their customers in all of their markets.
People, behaviour and culture
3
To win the war for talent, leading businesses build an environment that values diversity and attracts and retains the right people to help grow their businesses — not just great people, but people who share the company’s vision and fit its culture. Leading businesses provide strong leadership and create an inclusive environment where differences are valued and people can innovate to drive the business forward.
Digital, technology and analytics
4
Information is power. It can help business leaders make better, quicker and smarter decisions that improve business performance and manage risk. Digital technologies — including social media, the cloud, data analytics and mobile — are having a profound impact on businesses across all sectors. They are fundamentally changing consumer interactions while also opening up new business models. The digital enterprise presents the opportunity for CIOs to have a bigger and more influential role in the business.
5
Funding and finance
6
How a business manages its money — and its new investors — will determine its course for the future. Leading companies determine the best financial solution, or mix of solutions, for their business and derive maximum benefits from their management of available funds. To achieve this, CFOs and the finance function have to act more strategically and more commercially.
Transactions and alliances
7
Market-leading companies rarely evolve by organic growth alone. To rise to the top, they seek successful partnerships and strategic acquisitions capable of enhancing their growth, competitiveness and profitability. Leading businesses appreciate that landing the right deal is not about luck. They make a concerted effort to remain alert, to build profile in their markets and to ensure they’re well positioned to seize an opportunity as soon as it arises.
Risk
To succeed in today’s fast-moving climate, senior executives must have a strategic approach to risk management. Regardless of a company’s stage of growth, the ability to identify and manage risk stands out as a vital element of success. Companies that aim to become market leaders should not fear risk. They should approach it intelligently to reap its rewards and accelerate their growth. Market leadership
Operations
Your operating model is the link between your strategic intent and the ability of your organization to deliver on that intent. Having a clear approach that aligns your operations with your strategy will increase your ability to succeed. Leading companies leave nothing to chance. Instead, they take control by analyzing their operations and ensuring that all parts remain at their most effective at all times, making changes when needed.
Accelerated growth
People, behaviours and culture
Risk
Digital technology and analytics
Transactions and alliances
Operations
Customer
Funding and finance
The EY 7 Drivers of Growth
Emerging Entrepreneur
Simon Nyilassy Regal Lifestyle Communities Inc. (TSX:RLC) Toronto
S
ince co-founding Regal Lifestyle Communities in 2012, President and CEO Simon Nyilassy has helped build a highly successful, coastto-coast company in just three short years. He attributes the company’s success to his staff, or, as he affectionately calls them, “the Regal family.” Nyilassy understands that the best ideas come from the people who work on the front lines of the business, day in and day out. Are entrepreneurs born or made? I think I’ve always had an entrepreneurial streak, but, for me, it needed nurturing to really bring it out. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Communication, the ability to tolerate risk and uncertainty and a healthy relationship with failure. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? Keep administrative and regulatory burdens as simple and straightforward as possible. Balance safety and other policy concerns while still allowing entrepreneurs the freedom to innovate and respond to market needs. What have you done to ensure your company remains innovative and entrepreneurial? I encourage everyone to come forward with their ideas. People need the freedom to innovate and experiment. To what do you attribute your success? My team.
What’s your legacy?
“Creating a group of authentic, motivated people who have the strength and commitment to make a difference in the world, no matter where they may find themselves.“
What’s the toughest feedback you’ve ever received and how did you learn from it? I’ve been fortunate enough to have people in my life who didn’t hold back giving tough feedback. It took a long time, but eventually I learned that it’s important to accept all feedback, especially the tough stuff. Listen and learn.
My best advice for other entrepreneurs is to test your ideas with others. Listen more than you talk, and be persistent.
28
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
Business-to-Consumer Special Citation - Entrepreneurial Products Community andBuilder Services
Cyril Leeder Ottawa Senators Hockey Club Kanata
M
ost people rarely think of NHL hockey teams as businesses, but Cyril Leeder, President of the Ottawa Senators Hockey Club, does. Leeder has been with the Senators since the club’s return to the NHL in 1992 and was promoted to president of Senators Sports & Entertainment in 2009. Are entrepreneurs born or made? My entrepreneurial skills were acquired through training at EY as a CPA and then being exposed to some great entrepreneurs. What’s next for the business? The next big leaps forward for our business include digital transformation, big data and customer/fan intel. Also, a new arena and home for the hockey club. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? Canadian entrepreneurs are striking the right balance between driving their businesses and allocating time and resources into improving their communities. They also are proud of their Canadian and local roots and where they came from. What did you want to be when you were a kid? A professional athlete in hockey, baseball or basketball. What’s your passion other than entrepreneurship? Fishing and collecting wine. What motivates you? A burning desire to bring a Stanley Cup to our community.
My best advice for other entrepreneurs is to learn from the best. Connect with the top entrepreneurs in your community and learn from them.
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
What’s your legacy?
“As a group we helped to establish an enduring business and community asset that is important to the people of Ottawa-Gatineau because of its contributions back to the region.“
29
Young Entrepreneur
Grant Belanger and Leen Meyer EasyInsure Windsor
L
een Meyer and Grant Belanger co-founded EasyInsure and are setting the standard for online insurance brokerages. Through innovative services, instant access and convenience, EasyInsure is making insurance just that — easy! What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Belanger: Organization and determination. No matter what, you need to prepare and organize appropriately for success. Meyer: The determination to execute a plan and the ability to adapt on the fly. What are common misconceptions about your business/entrepreneurship in general? Belanger: People think that it’s easy and that simply owning a business means that you make lots of money. Meyer: Most people don’t understand the sacrifices, struggles or commitments that are required to operate a successful business. How are you accelerating growth in Canada? Belanger: We have the resources to meet the consumer’s needs exactly; that is what’s driving our growth in Canada. Meyer: We ask more questions than most in our industry. We always ask the consumer exactly what they want.
What’s your legacy?
“Pursuing positive experiences and constantly innovating.“
What was your first job? Belanger: Home Hardware. Meyer: Making toilet seats in a factory. What’s the one thing that you cannot live without? Belanger: The Internet. Meyer: The Internet. Who’s been your greatest inspiration? Belanger: My greatest inspiration is my father. Meyer: My inspirations are all my “dads,” including my own, my father-in-law and Grant’s father.
Our best advice for other entrepreneurs is that if you are a true entrepreneur, our advice will not, and should not, mean anything to you. Follow your instincts. 30
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
Business-to-Consumer Young Entrepreneur Products and Services
Jordan Hyde GoDay.ca Toronto
P
resident and CEO Jordan Hyde revolutionized the payday lending industry by creating GoDay.ca, a financial technology company that provides automated short-term, lowvalue online loans for Canadian residents. Founded in 2012, GoDay.ca has quickly become the lender of the future, an emerging leader in online financial services technology. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? I’ve known since I was a kid. My dad is an entrepreneur. He worked hard, but he was passionate about his work. He spurred me to desire the same passion in what I do. What makes you stand out from others? GoDay.ca exists in an industry that has a negative reputation, abundant provincial regulation and attacks from cybercriminals — and we overcome these obstacles on a daily basis to deliver excellence. What would winning Entrepreneur Of The Year mean to you? This would be a huge point of validation for me and the team. It would mean that our new approach to a traditional business is being accepted and that we have a long runway of innovation ahead of us. What’s your passion other than entrepreneurship? I am very interested in technology and automation — hence my passion with GoDay.ca! What’s your dream vacation? Travelling the world with a backpack, a passport and a map. I love a great adventure, and I want to engage with cultures around the world. How do you define success? Learning and growing from the mistakes, challenges and setbacks we have to overcome to build a stronger organization.
What’s your legacy?
“Leveraging technology to create meaningful connections with people and businesses in an innovative environment, and building next-generation technology that defines convenience and support.“
My best advice is don’t miss your opportunity because you’re too busy talking about an idea. Get your minimum viable product to the market and your revenue in the door as soon as possible.
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
31
Young Entrepreneur
Hooman Bahador, Geordie Konrad, and William Konrad Konrad Group Toronto
C
o-CEOs Geordie and William Konrad and CTO Hooman Bahador lead a dynamic team of digital creators, thinkers, planners, innovators and doers, with offices in Toronto, New York City, Chicago and San Jose. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? The ability to set long-term goals and identify the small steps required to achieve them. What makes you stand out from others? We are a business that helps other companies succeed in the digital world. We believe that to be a leader in our space we need to embrace digital technology throughout our organization. How are you reshaping the world? When we acquired BrainStation last year we set out to help educate the Canadian and global workforce. Working professionals across every industry need to upgrade their digital skill set. What funding methods have you used over the years? Konrad Group has not taken any outside equity funding at all.
What’s your legacy?
“Bringing our clients and students into the new digital era, with exciting, cutting-edge technology.“
What was your first job? When we graduated from university, we were determined to do this full time. Three months before we graduated, we got our first office and haven’t looked back since. How do you define success? Success is based on the value we deliver to our clients and the growth of an organization that we are proud of. We want our clients to feel that we helped them achieve their goals and to keep coming back to us year after year.
Don’t be afraid to set ambitious goals. They may seem far away today, but you will surprise yourself at how far you will go if you have a big goal that you use as a compass to guide your day-to-day decisions.
32
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
Young Entrepreneur
Stephen Lake Thalmic Labs Kitchener
G
enius engineers and an impossible problem? That’s the winning mix for Thalmic Labs. Co-Founder and CEO Stephen Lake is tackling the fundamental issues behind merging man and machine. Thalmic Labs is the company behind Myo, the armband device that measures the electricity in muscles and uses it to control computers, phones and other devices. What’s unique about your business? We do true integrated product development here, from pure research all the way through to manufacturing. We thrive in this blurry area between science and engineering. Common misconceptions about your business or entrepreneurship in general? People think we’re a gesture control company. In reality, we’re thoughtfully merging humans and computers — inventing new ways for us to interact with the digital world. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? We should be shifting resources away from trying to support traditional industries that won’t be growth engines for the future, to support technology, innovation and scaling the highest potential upstarts. What did you want to be when you were a kid? I’ve known from an early age that I wanted to be an engineer, designing and building new things. What have you done to ensure your company remains innovative and entrepreneurial? We hire extraordinarily smart people who are looking to solve very hard problems. We mix inexperience and experience to create a balanced set of differing viewpoints on how to approach problems.
What’s your legacy?
“To catalyze the next cycle of computing, create wearable technology that gives us superpowers and ultimately build a great and lasting company that helps advance technology and therefore moves society forward.“
Who has been your greatest inspiration? Engineer and entrepreneur Elon Musk. My best advice for entrepreneurs is to go out and tackle a challenge that you’re especially passionate about that you have some competitive advantage in solving. When things get tough, you’ll need this passion to pull you through. 34
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
Technology
Neil Cawse Geotab Inc. Oakville
W
ith more than 130 employees and more than 100 resellers across the globe, Geotab is quickly emerging as a major player on the world’s technological stage. Despite its fast-growing success, Geotab is first and foremost a company with a conscience, committed to making the world a safer, more efficient place. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Take risks and think about the bigger picture. Listen to every opinion you can, but listen to yourself most of all. Follow what you know is true right to the ends of the earth. What makes you stand out from others? My bald head. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? We need to educate and encourage our children to take risks in life and in business. Nothing great would ever happen without people taking risks. If you weren’t in your current leadership position, what would you be doing? Right now, deep learning algorithms (AI) are changing the world. We are entering into the next revolution: the AI revolution. I would be 100% focused on that.
What’s your legacy?
“Leaving behind technology that helps make driving safer and changes the way companies run their fleets.“
How do you define success? By the lives I affect and the small differences I can make. We’ve become far too selfish and materialistic as a species. Success is helping others see this so we can begin to think long-term. Who’s been your greatest inspiration? Bill Gates. There has never been anyone who has changed the world in a more profound way than he has.
My best advice for other entrepreneurs is to take a risk! Just go for it!
36
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
Without
the
hard
work,
dedication
and
tireless pursuit of innovation from the entire Geotab family, the company wouldn’t be where it is today – a leading provider of end-to-end telematics technology used by more than 400,000 vehicles in 70 countries. I am honored to be named a finalist for the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year in Ontario. ~ Neil Cawse, CEO, Geotab Web-based Fleet Management Software
Contact Us to Learn More
Geotab Inc.
MyGeotab
www.geotab.com
21-1075 North Service Road
@GEOTAB
testdrive@geotab.com
Oakville, Ontario
MyGeotab
Canada, L6M 2G2
Technology
Carl Rodrigues SOTI Mississauga
C
arl Rodrigues, CEO, has pushed SOTI to be the world’s leading provider of enterprise mobility management (EMM) and bring your own device (BYOD) policy management. Founded in 1995, SOTI enables mobility for more than 15,000 enterprise customers and millions of devices managed worldwide. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? Always. In 2001, I was doing some consulting when the project ran out of money. It was then that I realized there was no better time to give it a shot. Are entrepreneurs born or made? A lot of people are born with the raw ingredients, but entrepreneurs are made when they align their skills and their passion with potential opportunities. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? The Canadian government has to engage and align with companies born and rooted in our homeland. What have you done to ensure your company remains innovative and entrepreneurial? Innovation and entrepreneurship are alive and well at SOTI with programs that allow employees to allocate time to innovate with technology and business processes or ideas.
What’s your legacy?
“I hope in the end that I will be able to create a great Canadian company that will be a world brand.“
What’s your passion other than entrepreneurship? Family. I have two young boys, so it is important to balance running the company with spending time with them and helping them achieve their own dreams. What motivates you? I am motivated by software engineering and tinkering with algorithms and technical design, but there is another side of me that is motivated by witnessing the drive within others, by people who bring excitement to the game and put their hearts into whatever they are doing.
My advice for entrepreneurs is to do something from the heart, not for money. You need to enjoy what you are doing, and have a passion for everything you do.
38
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
Taking Mobility to Endless Possibilities
Enterprise Mobility Management
Enterprise Mobility Management
SOTI isn’t just about managing mobile devices. It’s about making our lives more mobile. It’s about changing the way we live, interact with others and experience life. It’s no longer just about doing business better. It’s about doing, and achieving what’s possible. SOTI Mobile Device Management - taking mobility to endless possibilities.
I’m truly honoured to be a finalist for the Entrepreneur Of The Year in Ontario. With SOTI celebrating our 20th anniversary this year, I wanted to take this time to thank my employees who continuously endeavour to drive SOTI’s innovation, excellence and success. Our achievements wouldn’t be possible without the dedication and support of our partners, OEM’s and resellers who have worked together to build an ecosystem of award-winning mobility products and solutions. Finally, I want to thank our customers for using our mobile solutions in transformative and innovative ways. It’s because of you that we realize that we aren’t just helping businesses run better, but together, we’re changing people’s lives.
SOTI.net
Copyright 2015© SOTI Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Technology
Jason Flick You.i TV Kanata
Y
ou.i TV helps media companies deliver stunning TV experiences on all devices. CEO and Co-Founder Jason Flick has developed technology all of his life and credits a healthy mix of success, failure, vision, courage and a very open mind to the success of You.i TV. In the face of many obstacles, including cash flow and market challenges, Flick focused on the goal – and won. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? You have to see the world in a different way than others. What’s unique about your business? We mix our rocket science with art. How are you accelerating growth in Canada? I sit on a number of non-profit entrepreneur-focused organizations and speak regularly at entrepreneur-focused events. What funding methods have you used over the years? We managed to raise a dollar from one group and get it matched by another group, from which we produced a product for a starter market and grew it all that way.
What’s your legacy?
“Envisioning great ideas and rallying the brightest people on the planet to build products people love.“
What’s the toughest feedback you’ve ever received and how did you learn from it? Focus. When you have big ideas that can solve so many market pains, you still have to choose just one small piece of the market to focus on. What book are you reading now? David and Goliath: Underdogs, Misfits, and the Art of Battling Giants, by Malcolm Gladwell.
We have managed on aggregate to double in size and revenues every year in the past seven years. We plan to continue that over the next 10, which makes for a very exciting future and a company that will positively impact the entire planet.
40
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
Š 2015 Ernst & Youngl LLP. All Rights Reserved. ED0617
Accelerated growth? Sustainable growth? The EY 7 Drivers of Growth can help you do both better. Unique insights to help you grow from challenger to leader. ey.com/acceleratinggrowth #BetterQuestions
Health Sciences
Dr. Jan Oudenes Alphora Research Inc. Mississauga
D
r. Jan Oudenes is President and CEO of Alphora Research Inc. Founded in 2003, Alphora has developed with a focus on providing active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) technology development services for the scale-up of complex small molecules for pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? You need to be able to focus on the key objectives to establish and grow your business, and to define and continually manage your financial risks. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Entrepreneurship is seated in the character of a person; however, like so many talents, it needs to be nurtured and groomed. How are you accelerating growth in Canada? We’ve created employment for approximately 80 professionals, many of whom are highly educated (PhD, MSc and BSc scientists and engineers). What did you want to be when you were a kid? Frankly, I had no idea what I wanted to be. Our family business was in construction and development in the Netherlands, and every year vendors would send calendars. One of these had pictures of the most beautiful trees, many from Canada. I dreamt of visiting Canada; then, 40 years ago, I received a scholarship to study at the University of Alberta in Edmonton. The rest is history. What’s your dream vacation? I would like to canoe down the Horton River, one of the most remote rivers in Canada, in the Northwest Territories, to see the Smoking Hills, musk ox and caribou, and hopefully avoid polar bears. How do you define success? Ultimately, success is to make a contribution to society at large.
My advice for other entrepreneurs is to manage your risks, financially as well as setting risk management as a business objective.
42
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
What’s your legacy?
“My legacy is to have made a contribution to society, to have created quality employment, to have built a sustainable business model and to have assisted our clients with bringing new pharmaceutical drugs to the market to help others live a healthier lifestyle.“
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient Technology I am honoured to have been recognized as a finalist for the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Award for Health Sciences in the Ontario region. I am proud to lead an organization dedicated to assisting our clients in bringing new pharmaceutical drugs to the market to help others live a healthier lifestyle. Alphora’s successes have not come from my efforts alone but have only been possible due to the passion, commitment and professionalism of our highly skilled employees which enables them to deliver quality support to our clients. It has been exciting to be part of this team and together we have earned the trust of our clients which has built a foundation for the future success of Alphora.
CREATING THE PATH FOR SUCCESS
Health Sciences
Dr. Jeff Daiter and Dr. Michael Varenbut Canadian Addiction Treatment Centres Richmond Hill
D
r. Jeff Daiter and Dr. Michael Varenbut are Co-Founders and Co-CEOs of Canadian Addiction Treatment Centres. The doctors and their staff provide services in over 50 communities throughout Ontario, treating more than 10,000 patients daily. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Daiter: The ability to be innovative and adapt to changing market conditions. Varenbut: Risk-taking and the ability to make difficult decisions. What’s unique about your business? Daiter: Our business focuses on treating a patient population that has otherwise been shunned by the medical profession. Varenbut: The ability to improve and save countless lives, while creating a thriving and sustainable company. How are you reshaping the world? Daiter: Treating and destigmatizing this medical condition, allowing many more suffering individuals to enter the care cycle. Varenbut: By working tirelessly at reducing, and hopefully one day eliminating, the stigma of addiction and mental health. What’s the one thing that you cannot live without? Daiter: A sense of purpose and meaning. Varenbut: My family. What did you want to be when you were a kid? Daiter: The captain of the Starship Enterprise. Varenbut: I have always wanted to be a doctor. To what do you attribute your success? Daiter: Success will only happen when we turn the tide on improving access to care across the entire country for those suffering from addiction. Varenbut: Hard work, dedication, willingness to take risks and a relentless focus on solutions.
What’s your legacy?
Varenbut: “To leave this world a better place than when I entered it.“ Daiter: “To influence destigmatizing addiction and normalizing the treatment for those suffering from addiction.“
Our advice for other entrepreneurs is to protect your reputation; you only get one per life. Also, give undeterred effort that perseveres on a continuously modifiable goal. 44
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
S
uccess in any business is rarely based on the efforts of a single individual. This axiom could be no truer as we look back over our 20 year history. Most importantly, we are grateful for the tens of thousands of patients who have chosen to put their health care in our hands. Less than 10% of individuals who are addicted to any substance choose to enter into a treatment program. It is no wonder why those who have chosen to enter into the path of recovery are very special people and for that, we are thankful. Behind the scenes, there are layers upon layers of compassionate health-care professionals (doctors, pharmacists, nurses and support staff ) who have dedicated their careers to helping those suffering from addiction. Without these highly motivated and caring colleagues, we would be nowhere. Our head office personnel is equipped with the expertise to diligently work through almost every permutation of crisis and creatively plan to avoid future pitfalls. This alone has provided us with the ability to grow beyond our expectations. Their dedication is often overlooked on a day-to-day basis. It is at times like these that we must step back and truly appreciate those who have enabled our success. Lastly, we would be nowhere without the ongoing support and love from our families. As everyone knows, operating your own business can take a toll on those for whom we care most deeply. They are the foundation for all that drives us and the place to which we turn for comfort. Our success is truly theirs and it is well deserved. With much gratitude, Jeff and Michael
Ontario Addiction Treatment Centres Head Office 13291 Yonge St., Ste. 403 Richmond Hill, Ontario L4E 4L6 (905) 773-3884 • www.oatc.ca
Health Sciences
Dr. Steven Stein MHS Assessments North York
W
hen Dr. Steven Stein founded MHS in 1983 with his wife, Rodeen, he had no experience or training in business. He now equates the many challenges he faced in those early years to earning a “hard knocks” business degree. MHS has grown to become a leading and internationally recognized psychological test development organization. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Understanding what makes someone successful as an entrepreneur is a specific topic of interest for me. In short, successful entrepreneurs typically possess an entrepreneurial mindset, strong selfmanagement and interpersonal skills and finally, a business orientation. These skills are rarely taught in school. What’s unique about your business? Our business is heavily based on research and development in several areas: psychology, neurological science, statistics, mental health, health psychology, neuropsychology, psychometrics, computer science and brain functioning. Our products have an influence on millions of people around the world. What sets Canadians apart on the world stage? Canadians have their own unique style when it comes to entrepreneurship. We seem to be able to do more with less. What’s the one thing you can’t live without? Oxygen. But on a deeper level, passion. Without passion, we’re just passing time.
What’s your legacy?
“My wife and I have created a very unique organization with world-class products that better the lives of millions of people around the world.“
What did you want to be when you were a kid? An astronomer. What is your passion other than entrepreneurship? Music. I currently play in three community bands. I’m also involved in a non-profit organization that identifies promising young Canadian musicians and helps teach them the “business” side of the industry.
My best advice for other entrepreneurs is to know your strengths and weaknesses. It is important to be self-aware.
46
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
Š 2015 Ernst & Youngl LLP. All Rights Reserved. ED None
What transforms around the corner to around the world?
Through our global Entrepreneur Of The YearTM program, EY has helped thousands of companies grow from local to global. ey.com/acceleratinggrowth #BetterQuestions
Technology Enabled Services
Nan Chen, Ron Gavillet and Ed Ogonek CENX Inc. Ottawa
C
o-Founder and Vice Chairman Nan Chen, Co-Founder and Secretary Ron Gavillet, CEO Ed Ogonek and their CENX Inc. team are committed to revolutionizing the way that communications service providers build and manage their advanced data networking services. What’s unique about your business? With a company culture of collaboration and innovation, CENX has built a unique blend of skills and experience across data networking, bigdata analytics, Internet computing and business processes. With this company culture, we’ve harnessed these skills to deliver a very innovative solution with tangible business value. What’s next for the business? To help clients become more agile in meeting their customers’ needs and delivering and assuring data services faster and at lower costs. There are tremendous opportunities to assist our service provider customers in accelerating their transition to virtualized networks and to a cloud-based software model. What sets Canadian entrepreneurs apart on the world stage? A well-deserved reputation for delivering world-class innovation in the information and communications technology sector. What funding methods have you used over the years? Self-funding, angel funding, venture capital, high-yield (junk) debt and IPOs. What have you done to ensure your company remains innovative and entrepreneurial? A relentless focus on growing the best stakeholder group to deliver this vision. We hire great people, build solid relationships and partner with great investors.
What’s your legacy?
“Change the world! One person can make a difference. Our legacy is that we continue to change the world for the better and deliver value to our stakeholders.“
To what do you attribute your success? Vision, perseverance, timing and great people!
Our advice for other entrepreneurs is that you have to live the contradiction of going “all-in” for your venture, while maintaining a personal, family and professional balance.
48
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
Business-to-Consumer Technology Enabled Products Services and Services
Chris Sukornyk Chango Inc. Toronto
C
hris Sukornyk, Founder and CEO of Chango Inc., believed “big data” could be used to provide better-targeted advertisements to marketers. Founded in 2008, the purpose-built programmatic advertising company has expanded to use exclusive intent data and technology to create relevant and timely advertising campaigns that produce rich customer insights. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? I think from a young age. My father was an entrepreneur. He started Harvey’s and built many businesses over the years. Some of my earliest memories from growing up are of hiding behind the couch listening in as my father had business meetings. What are common misconceptions about your business/entrepreneurship in general? Entrepreneurship is seen as glamorous – it’s actually stressful and much, much harder than anyone realizes.
What’s your legacy?
“My kids are my legacy.“
How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? By getting kids involved in starting their own businesses when they are very young. Micro-loans for teenage entrepreneurs. Even just exposing them to the concept as a career path would help erase the stigma. It shouldn’t be a big, scary thing to want to make your own job! What did you want to be when you were a kid? When I was a kid, I wanted to be an inventor. What funding methods have you used over the years? I’ve used various funding methods: personal, venture, angel, government and change in the couch. How do you define success? Just ask yourself if you are happy. If the answer is yes, then you’ve found success! It’s not a place or destination in the future. It’s the present. What would you do if you weren’t in this position? If I wasn’t CEO of Chango, I would be running another startup — or surfing.
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
49
Technology Enabled Services
Ata Moeini and Neda Moeini GL | Group of Gold Line Markham
F
or Ata and Neda Moeini, it’s all about being connected. As immigrants to Canada in the 1980s, the Moeini’s experienced first-hand the difficulties of being disconnected from their loved ones back home. Realizing they weren’t the only ones who longed for connection, Ata and Neda founded GL | Group of Gold Line as a way for the world to keep in touch. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Ata: When an idea sparks, you have to act on it, there and then. Neda: Passion and perseverance. What’s unique about your business? Ata: We are in the business of connecting the global and ethnic diaspora back home. Neda: It started during a unique time in the world when many people were away from their families and needed to stay connected somehow. How are you reshaping the world? Ata: By creating a more united world. Neda: By bringing people closer together so that they don’t feel the boundaries and distance between them.
What’s your legacy?
“Creating telecom products that transcend borders and enable a united global village.“
What’s the one thing you cannot live without? Ata and Neda: Family. What have you done to ensure your company remains innovative and entrepreneurial? Ata: Honestly, I have to hold back I have so many ideas! Neda: We’ve kept Ata on staff! He never stops coming up with ideas, and his ideas are always ahead of the times. How do you define success? Ata: When I decide to do something, I have to see it through. For me, success is its own end. I finish what I start. Neda: When there are many happy people around you.
Our best advice for entrepreneurs is to persevere. Don’t give up.
50
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014
Group of
GoldLine.com
The Future: GL is excited about these new projects!
Connecting you to what matters.
SIP Trunking: The next generation of VoIP telephony services for your business. Hosting: Fully equipped cloud-oriented data centre and colocation service facility.
TELEPHONY
Long distance experts.
Digital Signage: Next generation of display advertising with real time video and multimedia content.
WEBTV
Triple Play: Delivering data, voice and video services over one physical IP network.
Streaming leaders.
WEB2PRINT
Digital printing efďŹ ciency.
SOLUTIONS
Creative IT business solutions. Data center facility located at GL headquarters in Markham, Ontario.
Contact us, we would love to hear from you: info@groupofgl.com | +1 905.709.3570 | 1.800.803.4410 GroupofGL.com
Business Services
Orin Litman VetStrategy Woodbridge
C
EO Orin Litman founded VetStrategy in 2006. The company acquires ownership in veterinary hospitals, allowing for owneroperators to have a proven, low-risk exit strategy. He credits the company’s success to staff retention and outstanding client service. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Everyone is born an entrepreneur; it is just a matter of whether they decide to pursue it or not. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? A successful entrepreneur needs to be stubborn and risk tolerant and have the courage to pursue their ideas. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? Include entrepreneurs in the curriculum. There are resources dedicated to assisting our young people to get into colleges and universities. The same systems are needed to foster entrepreneurship. Canada also needs to make it easier for entrepreneurs to access capital. What funding methods have you used over the years? Bank debt and very generous friends and family. Recently, we partnered with Imperial Capital. To what do you attribute your success? Belief in the idea, risk tolerance and the support of the people around me. Who has been your greatest inspiration? Both of my grandparents, Sam Litman, Ben Burke and Daryl Katz. Sam Litman was a Holocaust survivor. Hearing him tell stories about survival, escape and building a life in Canada was inspirational to me. Ben Burke built a successful window manufacturing company in Toronto. I worked for Daryl Katz and was always struck by his ability to make quick decisions and take on risks.
What’s your legacy?
“A company that has provided career opportunities and helped make the lives of our clients better by contributing to the health and longevity of their pets.“
My advice for entrepreneurs is to have a sound business thesis and believe in yourself. Learn from your mistakes.
52
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
Being named as a finalist for the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year is a tremendous honour. However, the success of VetStrategy would not be possible without the support of our entire team. THANK YOU to all of the veterinarians, managers, technicians, receptionists, and assistants who work tirelessly to improve the lives of our patients and clients every day.
THANK YOU to all of the former owners who have entrusted us with the responsibility of ensuring the health, happiness, and well-being of their patients, clients, and staff.
THANK YOU to our devoted home office team whose mission is to make it easier for our
hospitals to provide better care and service. You make it enjoyable for me to come to work every day.
THANK YOU to my executive team Ross McKay and Carlo Russo for working in lock-step with me and not being afraid to make difficult decisions.
THANK YOU to AUM Law for being a trusted advisor. THANK YOU to Imperial Capital for being a value added partner and helping to support our organization on a daily basis. Most of all,
THANK YOU to my wife and family who are always there for me. Orin Litman Chief Executive Officer VetStrategy
www.vetstrategy.com
Business Services
Rubsun Ho and Joseph Milstone Cognition LLP Toronto
J
oseph Milstone and Rubsun Ho co-founded Cognition LLP, an innovative law firm whose focus on delivering more operationallyminded, cost-effective legal solutions has enabled the company to take the lead in “new law.” Founded in 2005, the firm has a team of more than 50 experienced lawyers. When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur? Ho: At five. My brother and I set up a weekend comic stand for the pure thrill of the sale. Milstone: When I realized that it was riskier for me to bet on someone else’s success than on my own abilities. What are common misconceptions about your business/entrepreneurship in general? Ho: That it’s easier to be your own boss than an employee. Milstone: That there has to be a compromise in quality associated with leaner, value-based legal pricing. How can Canada support a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem? Ho: Canada should be more open to using upstart suppliers, and financiers should place more bets on emerging companies. Milstone: More availability of formal education, materials and mentorship for entrepreneurs. What funding methods have you used over the years? Ho: We used our personal credit lines and leveraged our houses. Milstone: Friends and family, line of credit and operations-generated funds.
What’s your legacy?
“To reshape the delivery of legal services in Canada to the benefit of clients and lawyers, both of whom were close to giving up on an industry which had stayed dormant for decades.“
Looking back, what’s one thing that you would do differently, professionally speaking? Ho: Committing to our business model earlier on would have allowed us to scale more quickly. Milstone: Have more self-confidence in the vision. What was your first job? Ho: Shaking potatoes off plants at a farm. Milstone: Delivering the Sunday Sun. Our advice for entrepreneurs is to define your corporate culture and don’t compromise on it. Also, if you are smart and determined, you will figure out a way to be successful. 54
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
ELEVATED EXPERTISE hopkinsonassociates.com | 403.291.9027 Challenger images provided courtesy of Bombardier Inc.
Business Services
Graham Rosenberg dentalcorp Toronto
D
entalcorp is revolutionizing the business of dentistry by managing a partnership of leading Canadian dentists, based on high levels of business sophistication, collaboration and sharing strategic resources to support the individual dentist’s personal and professional growth. CEO Graham Rosenberg is a co-founder of the company. Are entrepreneurs born or made? Both, but they have innate personality traits allowing them to take the risks required to be successful. Their experiences shape them. What’s next for the business? Our ambition is to double our business over the next three years. Our success will be determined by our ability to institutionalize and scale both our organic and acquisitive growth initiatives with contributions by the whole organization. What would winning Entrepreneur Of The Year mean to you? Winning would be huge validation for everything that I’ve set out to do in building Dentalcorp. More importantly, it would represent a significant achievement to be shared by all members of our amazing team.
What’s your legacy?
“My three amazing children.“
Looking back, what’s one thing that you would do differently, professionally speaking? I would have realized my entrepreneurial ambitions much earlier on in my career. What book are you reading now? Team of Teams: New Rules of Engagement for a Complex World. It is written by General Stanley McChrystal, Tantum Collins, David Silverman and Chris Fussell. What’s your dream vacation? The one I’m taking with my wife and children at the end of the year to my country of birth – South Africa.
My advice for other entrepreneurs is that things cost more and take longer than you think. Revenue wins.
56
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
excellence in practice dentalcorp is focused on acquiring and partnering with leading, growth-oriented general and specialist dental practices across Canada. Our unique value proposition allows our Partners to retain their clinical and operating autonomy while we, as their business partner, provide comprehensive strategic expertise and tactical resources to support their growth. This enables our Partners to focus their energy on delivering optimal patient care. Visit dentalcorp.ca to learn more.
Business Services
Alex Haditaghi Pacific Mortgage Group Toronto
P
acific Mortgage Group provides residential mortgages to thousands of Canadians every year, helping families from all walks of life get the home they deserve. Founder and Chairman Alex Haditaghi overcame unimaginable challenges, including homelessness, food banks and United Way shelters, to help give others a better life. What would you say are the top skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur? Patience, observance, passion, persistence and a good imagination. What makes you stand out from others? I don’t panic under pressure and I’m not afraid to make tough decisions. I’m confident in myself and what I can bring to the table. I’m persistent and I never give up. Every new challenge is a new opportunity. What would winning Entrepreneur Of The Year mean to you? Winning Entrepreneur Of The Year would mean a great deal to my family, especially my mother, who sacrificed so much for our well-being. What did you want to be when you were a kid? A doctor. At a very young age, I lost one of my brothers. We lived in a remote place without access to proper medical care. That memory has lived with me my entire life.
What’s your legacy?
“Passionate and tough but very fair; smart but crazy. Overall: a humble and gracious winner.“
What was your first job? Selling water as an eight year old on the streets of Turkey. Who has been your greatest inspiration? My mother. She travelled across countries as a single mother of four to provide a better life for her children. She sacrificed to provide me with endless opportunities.
My best advice for entrepreneurs is to always hire people who are smarter than you and who complement your weaknesses. Also, passion is to an entrepreneur as gas is to a car! Without it you won’t get far.
58
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2015
No personal triumph is the work of one person alone!
“I am honored and humbled to be a finalist for the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year program. We have grown from a small business in a tiny Richmond Hill house, to a company that originates nearly $8 billion in mortgages annually and $2.5 billion mortgage assets under administration. I want to share this with my amazing family, management, brokers and the entire Radius Financial and Mortgage Architects staff for all their hard work and talent. Without them this recognition would not be possible!� - Alex Haditaghi, Founder & Chairman
EVOLVE STAGNATE
OR GO
UNDER
TEC is for hungry entrepreneurs striving to advance their business and get beyond their individual capabilities. We gather the best business leader minds to achieve more at a higher level. Harness the power of a peer advisory group with TEC-Canada.com