Entrepreneur of the Year Judges' Criteria

Getting on the short list isn't an easy ride. First, the Ernst & Young LLP_pros review all the submissions, which include exhaustive application forms that outline everything from the company's innovations and its role in the community to the main achievements and strategies of its management team. Of course, detailed numbers that can attest to the company's growth are also required.

Then the real test begins. Nominees are grilled face to face in three-hour meetings, during which they're lobbed questions on topics ranging from their personal philosophies to their companies' financial performance, to help the judges get a sense of the person behind the achievements.

After weeding out companies that might be too small, too new or otherwise don't meet the basic criteria, the Ernst & Young team prepares detailed summaries of the applicants who have passed muster.

The judges then evaluate the candidates, first alone, then as a team to compare notes. Finally, the judges reduce the file to three finalists in each category before deciding on a single winner.

What do the judges look for?

Entrepreneurial spirit/Corporate culture
The nominee demonstrates perseverance in the face of adversity and overcoming obstacles, learns from experience, fosters teamwork and builds loyalty.

Innovation
What new approaches of technologies have been implemented? What investment has been made in R & D? How well does the nominee adapt to change and develop products and services ahead of the market?

Personal integrity/influence
The nominee has earned respect from staff, competitors and advisers; is a strong communicator; influences others; and demonstrates involvement in the wider community.

Strategic direction/Market position/Industry impact
The nominee has made a noticeable impact in terms of job creation and leadership in the marketplace and is a regional, national or global player.

Financial performance
How strong is the organization's financial performance today? What is the nominee's track record in raising financing?

2007 EOY Pacific Region judges

• Art Aylesworth CEO, Carmanah Technologies Corp. and 2006 EOY Pacific Region winner
• Donna Bridgeman VP, investments, GrowthWorks Capital Ltd.
• Tracey McVicar Managing director, CAI Capital Management Co.
• Jim Moore President & CEO, Stork Craft Manufacturing Inc.
• Daniel Muzyka Dean, Sauder School of Business, UBC
• Sue Paish CEO, Pharmasave Drugs Ltd.
• Bob Gayton Director, Western Copper Corp.

Winners:

• Entrepreneur of the Year 2007 Introduction
• Entrepreneur of the Year Winner for 2007
• Technology & Media Winner 2007
• B2B Products & Services Winner 2007
• B2C Products & Services Winner 2007
• Health Sciences Winner 2007
• href="/bcb/top-stories/2007/10/10/emerging-entrepreneurs-winner-2007">Emerging Entrepreneurs Winner 2007
• Manufacturing Winner 2007
• Hospitality, Tourism & Entertainment Winner 2007

Entrepreneur of the Year 2007 Finalists Slideshow Pt. 1
Entrepreneur of the Year 2007 Finalists Slideshow Pt. 2
Entrepreneur of the Year 2007 Finalists Slideshow Pt. 3

Gala Event Slideshow: EOY 2007 Winner | Category Winners

Gala Event: Winner's Acceptance Speech