GG David Johnston honoured for promoting entrepreneurs

EY is honouring Governor General David Johnston with a special citation for his unwavering support of entrepreneurship in Ontario.

The 20^th EY Entrepreneur of the Year Supporter of Entrepreneurship Award recognizes his many contributions to Canada’s entrepreneurial culture, specifically in the Waterloo region.

Read: Young entrepreneurs will be your next big clients

The award was presented at EY’s Ontario Entrepreneur of the Year gala last night.

“His vision to combine scientific research and entrepreneurial zeal in the Waterloo region has helped businesses do what they do best — move the economy forward,” says Colleen McMorrow, EY Partner and Entrepreneur of the Year program director.

Johnston is passionate about the ways in which educational institutions can influence Canada’s economic development. As president of the University of Waterloo, he fostered research and development in the region. During his tenure, the Perimeter Institute, the Institute for Quantum Computing, the Centre for Business, Entrepreneurship and Technology and the Research Institute for Aging were established.

“By fostering ways to bring the developments first nurtured in Waterloo to commercial markets, Johnston has helped make Canada a top country for entrepreneurship,” explains McMorrow.

Read: Canada in top 5 for entrepreneurship: EY

The award recognizes moral philanthropy, which encourages and inspires others. It celebrates the kind of public mentorship needed to continually renew Canada’s business ecosystem by spotlighting business and community leadership at the highest level.

Award finalists are chosen based on their vision, leadership, financial success and social responsibility.

The Ontario category winners were also announced at the gala. The overall Ontario winner — Geoffrey Smith of EllisDon Corporation — will compete with winners from the Atlantic, Quebec, Prairies and Pacific regions in Toronto on Nov. 27.

Read: Small business confidence climbs in August