The Rotman Family Entrepreneurship Awards is our signature annual event that brings together the entire Rise community to honour and celebrate the outstanding achievements of Rise clients and volunteers.

Join us for an intimate and interactive conversation with our host, Anne-Marie Mediwake, and the award recipients, who will share inspiring stories of their personal mental health and entrepreneurship journeys and the transformative impact that Rise has had in their lives.

Register to attend

Host of CTV’s Your Morning, Anne-Marie Mediwake is an accomplished journalist with two decades of news and current affairs experience. Mediwake has provided award-winning coverage of some of the world’s largest news stories including the 2014 Ottawa Terror Attacks and the 2013 Boston Marathon Bombing. A mother of triplets, she is a passionate advocate for women and children’s issues, which saw her named Toronto Woman of the Year 2011.

Award Categories

	Rotman Family Entrepreneur of the Year: For the entrepreneur that best exhibits success and growth in their personal and professional lives. When it comes to business planning, you have made smart and sound decisions. Your story is one to be celebrated and can stand as an example for others to follow. In order to be eligible for this award your business must be at least 2 years old (based on business registration date), generating stable or growing sales, and have at least 1 achievement that was larger than expected
	Dr. Paul Garfinkel Resilience Award: For the entrepreneur that has overcome significant challenges (either personal or business). You have grit, perseverance, and don’t take “no” for an answer. While every Rise client experiences their own personal challenges, the resilience award winner demonstrates exceptional determination in achieving their goals. In order to be eligible for this award, your business must be at least 1 year old (based on business registration date), and you must demonstrate a clear example of overcoming at least one significant personal or business challenge.
	Start-up Award: For the first-time entrepreneur dipping their toes into small business ownership. You have done your homework and diligently planned your launch. You’ve experienced some initial success and have a clear vision for the future. Your business must be under 12 months old (based on the business registration date) to be eligible for this category.
	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 our mission and their contributions to individual clients’ success is a clear example of exemplary service.

Presenting Sponsor	Award Sponsors		Supporting Sponsor