2026/2027 Rotman Family Entrepreneurship Awards
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Applications and nominations are now open!
Submission Deadline: Sunday, November 29, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. ET.
About the Event
The Rotman Family Entrepreneurship Awards is our signature annual event, bringing together the entire Rise community to honour and celebrate the outstanding achievements of our clients and volunteers.
Why Apply?
- Client award recipients will receive a $1,000 cash prize.
- All award recipients will be featured on the Rise website and social media.
- Recipients will be celebrated at the Rotman Family Entrepreneurship Awards virtual event in February 2027.
Who Should Apply?
Rotman Family Entrepreneurship Awards recipients are clients who have demonstrated entrepreneurial excellence in running their businesses, volunteers who have been exceptional mentors to clients, and community members who have made a remarkable contribution to our mission.
Is that you? Here’s what we’re looking for:
Rise Client Awards
We focus on your perseverance in the face of challenges. Clients selected for awards have built their self-confidence and found success (as they define it!) through their business pursuits. They demonstrate resilience and entrepreneurial excellence in running their businesses.
Nominate a Rise Volunteer Mentor
Have you worked with a Rise volunteer mentor who embodies Rise values and has played a fundamental role in supporting your entrepreneurial success? Nominate them today to become our Scotiabank Volunteer of the Year!
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Explore Past Award Recipient Stories
Application & Nomination Guidelines
- Rise clients must have received a Rise loan or graduated from a Rise Training program before October 30, 2026.
- To be eligible for the Rotman Family Entrepreneur of the Year Award and the Dr. Garfinkel Resilience Award, your business must be at least one (1) year old as of October 30, 2026.
- To be eligible for the Rise Small Business Start-Up Award, your business must be less than one (1) year old as of October 30, 2026.
- Rise volunteers must be nominated by a Rise client.
- Previous Rotman Family Entrepreneurship Awards recipients will not be considered.
Rise is committed to access and equity, which includes a commitment to achieving diversity among award recipients. We encourage applications from our clients and nominations for volunteers who are members of a visible minority group in all its forms, including race, culture, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, language, physical ability, and age.
Award Categories
Rotman Family Entrepreneur of the Year Award
For the entrepreneur who best exhibits success and growth in their personal and professional lives. They have made smart and sound decisions when it comes to their business planning. Their story is one to be celebrated and can stand as an example to follow.
Dr. Paul Garfinkel Resilience Award
For the entrepreneur who has overcome significant challenges (either personal or business). They have grit and perseverance and don’t take 'no' for an answer. While every Rise client has personal challenges, the Resilience Award recipient goes further than others in achieving their goals.
Rise Small Business Start-Up Award
For the first-time entrepreneur dipping their toes into small business ownership. They have done their research and diligently planned their launch. They’ve had some initial success and have a clear vision for the future. Their business must be less than a year old to qualify for this award.
Scotiabank Volunteer of the Year Award
For the Rise volunteer who has gone above and beyond to support Rise clients and the organization. Their tireless dedication to Rise’s mission and contributions to individual clients’ success are models of exemplary service.
Dave Richardson Champion Award
For a Rise community member who embodies the spirit of openness, community and philanthropy personified by Dave Richardson. They are a dedicated Rise supporter whose actions demonstrate a commitment to advancing Rise’s mission through mental health advocacy, client support, contributions of time, talent, resources, and more.
Important Dates
- November 29, 2026: Submission deadline (11:59 p.m. ET)
- November 30, 2026 – January 8, 2027: Applications reviewed
- Week of January 11, 2027: Applicants will be notified
- February 2027: The Rotman Family Entrepreneurship Awards virtual event
Ready to Apply or Nominate Someone?
Help us celebrate the entrepreneurs, volunteers, and community members making a difference through Rise.
Applications and nominations close November 29, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. ET.
