Top 30 Entrepreneurs in Canada

Canada is home to a diverse group of entrepreneurs who have made significant contributions across various industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, and sustainability. These individuals have established and led companies that address pressing societal challenges, drive economic growth, and introduce innovative solutions. This article profiles some of the top entrepreneurs in Canada, whose vision and leadership are setting new benchmarks for success.

• Lezlie Karls
  

Lezlie Karls is the co-founder and CEO of Mid-Day Squares, a Montreal-based health bar company recognized for its innovative, high-protein snack options. With a focus on combining nutrition and flavor, Karls has redefined the snack food industry through innovative products and strategic business practices. Karls pursued a degree in Fashion and Marketing at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. After gaining experience in the fashion industry, Karls shifted her focus to entrepreneurship. In 2018, she co-founded Mid-Day Squares with her husband, Nick Saltarelli, and brother, Jake Karls, aiming to fill a market gap for functional yet indulgent snacks. Despite initial challenges with traditional retailers, the company achieved rapid growth by adopting a direct-to-consumer model. Karls' leadership emphasizes strategic adaptability and a commitment to quality, fostering the company’s prominence in the competitive health food industry.

• Daniel Eberhard
  

Daniel Eberhard is a Canadian entrepreneur and the co-founder and CEO of KOHO, a fintech company revolutionizing financial accessibility in Canada. Through innovative technology and a customer-first approach, Eberhard has positioned KOHO as a leader in personal finance solutions. Under his leadership, KOHO has raised significant capital and surpassed one million customers by offering no-fee mobile accounts and Visa cards designed to streamline personal finance management. Before founding KOHO, Eberhard co-founded Kineticor Renewables and played a pivotal role in the development of a wind energy project acquired by Algonquin Power. Eberhard is an Endeavor Entrepreneur and has been recognized as one of Canada’s leading innovators in financial technology. His work at KOHO has been widely celebrated for driving positive change in the financial sector.

• Leonard Brody
  

Leonard Brody is a Canadian entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and co-founder of Caravan, a company specializing in developing ventures for high-profile celebrities and public figures. Brody holds a Bachelor’s degree from Queen’s University, a law degree from Osgoode Hall, and completed executive education at Harvard Business School. Brody’s entrepreneurial journey began with NowPublic, which became one of the largest citizen journalism platforms globally. After its acquisition, he served as president of the Innovation and Digital Group at Anschutz Corporation. As a co-founder of Caravan, Brody helps celebrities and public figures develop impactful businesses. He is also a sought-after keynote speaker, addressing audiences worldwide on technology and media trends. Brody’s ventures have raised millions in capital and earned him two Emmy nominations. He has also co-authored several best-selling books on innovation and entrepreneurship.

• Lily Yange
  

Lily Yange is a Toronto-based entrepreneur and co-founder of Sir+Lex Agency, an influencer marketing company. Yange studied Communications and Media Studies at Ryerson University, focusing on digital media and brand strategy. In 2020, she co-founded Sir+Lex Agency, emphasizing diversity and authentic brand partnerships. The agency has since established itself as a leader in influencer marketing strategies. With a background as a lifestyle and fashion content creator, Yange has collaborated with major global brands, leveraging her expertise in digital media to bridge the gap between businesses and influencers. Her work emphasizes diversity and inclusion within the social media landscape. Through Sir+Lex Agency, Yange aims to foster authentic brand partnerships and enhance the role of influencer marketing in modern business strategies.

• Sari Abdo
  

Sari Abdo is the founder and CEO of Hungerhub, a Toronto-based company transforming workplace dining through its innovative catering model. Abdo has redefined how office meals are ordered and consumed, emphasizing personalization and local partnerships. Abdo holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from York University, with a focus on entrepreneurship and business management. Abdo launched Hungerhub in 2017, introducing the concept of "uncatering," which offers individualized meal options from local restaurants. The platform gained significant traction, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, as workplaces sought safer and more customizable dining solutions. Hungerhub's success includes partnerships with numerous restaurants and recognition as one of Deloitte's Technology Fast 50 companies.

• Michael Midmer
  

Michael Midmer is the CEO of Zucara Therapeutics, a biotechnology company advancing therapeutic solutions for diabetes and metabolic disorders. With extensive experience in the life sciences sector, Midmer is committed to addressing critical healthcare challenges. Midmer holds a Master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences from the University of Toronto, specializing in pharmacology and therapeutic innovation. Midmer joined Zucara Therapeutics in 2023, bringing a proven track record in drug development and commercialization. His leadership focuses on the development of a first-in-class therapeutic to prevent hypoglycemia in individuals with type 1 diabetes. Prior to Zucara, Midmer held executive roles at various biotech firms, where he spearheaded product innovation and strategic growth.

• Pierre-Xavier Roy

Pierre-Xavier Roy is the co-founder and COO of HydroCool Ltd., a Toronto-based CleanTech startup specializing in sustainable, hydrogen-powered refrigeration systems. Roy is recognized for his efforts in promoting renewable energy solutions in the logistics sector. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from McGill University, with a focus on sustainable systems and energy efficiency. In 2019, Roy co-founded HydroCool, leveraging hydrogen and AI technologies to develop zero-emission refrigeration units for the transportation industry. Under his leadership, the company has partnered with Invotek Group to create energy-efficient solutions that align with global carbon neutrality goals. By integrating predictive control and smart IoT technology, HydroCool contributes to advancing renewable energy solutions and addressing environmental challenges within the logistics sector.

• Vida Gabriel
  

Vida Gabriel is the co-founder of TerraFixing Inc., an Ottawa-based company specializing in Direct Air Carbon Capture (DACC) technology. Gabriel holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Ottawa, specializing in sustainable reaction engineering and polymer biodegradation. Gabriel focuses on developing innovative solutions to combat climate change, particularly in cold climates where traditional carbon capture methods face limitations. TerraFixing has gained recognition for its cost-effective approach, leveraging advanced materials and sustainable engineering practices. Gabriel’s leadership has positioned the company as a key contributor to global sustainability efforts. TerraFixing addresses the challenges of carbon capture in cold climates, utilizing zeolite-based filters for efficient CO2 removal. In 2024, the company closed a $1.6 million seed round and established R&D labs at the University of Ottawa. Gabriel was named to Forbes’ 30 Under 30 for her contributions to clean technology and has presented her research at national and international conferences.

• Tareq Hadhad
  

Tareq Hadhad is the founder and CEO of Peace by Chocolate, a Nova Scotia-based confectionery company blending Syrian traditions with Canadian culture. Hadhad is also an international speaker and philanthropist. He studied Medicine at Damascus University before his family was displaced by the Syrian civil war. After fleeing Syria due to the civil war, Hadhad and his family rebuilt their chocolate business in Canada, blending Syrian and Canadian culinary traditions. Peace by Chocolate promotes social causes, including refugee support and mental health initiatives, while donating a portion of profits to charity. Hadhad launched Peace by Chocolate in 2016 after relocating to Canada as a refugee. Starting with homemade recipes, the company has grown into a nationally recognized brand known for its mission-driven products. Peace by Chocolate actively supports charitable initiatives and promotes inclusivity. Hadhad’s story has been featured in a best-selling book and a Tribeca Film Festival documentary. He has received numerous awards for entrepreneurship and community impact, including recognition from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

• Joanna Griffiths
  

Joanna Griffiths is the founder and CEO of Knix, a women’s intimate apparel brand renowned for its leak-proof products and commitment to inclusivity. Griffiths earned a Bachelor of Commerce from Queen’s University and an MBA from INSEAD in 2012. Since founding the company in 2013, Griffiths has led its transition to a direct-to-consumer model. The brand’s signature leak-proof underwear revolutionized the market, and its transition to a direct-to-consumer model drove significant growth. In 2022, Knix achieved a landmark $410 million acquisition, making it one of Canada’s largest female-founded company sales. An advocate for women’s empowerment, Griffiths has received numerous awards, including EY’s Entrepreneur of the Year. Her leadership has established Knix as a global leader in innovative apparel solutions. Griffiths has received numerous accolades, including EY’s Entrepreneur of the Year Canada 2023. She is also an advocate for social causes, with notable contributions to diversity and maternal health initiatives.