Celebrating Made in Canada

Message from Rachel Rodrigues

As we launch the 31st year of the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year^® program in Canada, the entrepreneurial landscape presents both exciting opportunities and significant challenges. Canadian entrepreneurs’ resilience and innovative spirit have always been a driving force behind our prosperity and economic growth, and that will never change. However, evolving market dynamics require us to adapt and innovate to maintain our competitive edge.

Let’s explore some factors shaping the Canadian entrepreneurial landscape today and how we can best support Made in Canada.

Key trends in Canadian entrepreneurship

Increasing focus on innovation and technology
The rapid advancement of technology continues to reshape industries and create new business opportunities. Canadian entrepreneurs are at the forefront of this transformation, deploying innovative technologies to develop products and services. This trend is particularly evident in sectors such as AI, fintech, healthtech and cleantech, where Canadian startups are making significant global contributions.

Growth of sustainable and socially responsible businesses
There is a growing emphasis on sustainability and social responsibility among Canadian entrepreneurs. Businesses are increasingly integrating ESG considerations into their operations. This shift is driven not only by consumer demand but also by the recognition that sustainable practices lead to long-term success.

Agility
In today's swiftly evolving business landscape, agility has become indispensable for Canadian entrepreneurs. Faced with advancements in technology, economic downturns, pandemics and tariff changes, they demonstrate remarkable resilience and adaptability. By constantly refining their risk management strategies and developing innovative business models, entrepreneurs stay ahead of the curve. How do they manage to navigate these turbulent waters? It's their ability to pivot quickly and seize new opportunities that sets them apart.

At EY, we’re committed to empowering and celebrating the achievements of Canadian entrepreneurs. We encourage you to lean in and support Canadian businesses now more than ever. Have a look at the EY Canada ecosystem of entrepreneurship and the list of program alumni from 2019 to 2024.

The future for Canada’s entrepreneurs is bright, and EY is dedicated to playing a strong supporting role in this dynamic landscape. By staying attuned to market trends and continuously evolving our strategies, we will help Canadian entrepreneurs achieve their immense potential to shape the future with confidence.