Canada's Business Titans of 2026: A New Class of Hall of Fame Inductees

TORONTO, ON – January 15, 2026 – The Canadian Business Hall of Fame (CBHF) is preparing to bestow its highest honour upon a new class of distinguished leaders, an event made possible by the significant support of two major corporate sponsors. KingSett Capital and Scotiabank have been announced as the Presenting Sponsors for the 47th Annual Induction Ceremony and Celebration, scheduled for May 28, 2026, at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

This signature gala, which serves as the primary fundraising event for JA (Junior Achievement) Canada, will unite the nation's business community to celebrate the 2026 Inductees. These individuals will be named Companions of the Order of the Canadian Business Hall of Fame, recognizing their visionary leadership and profound impact on Canada’s economic and social fabric.

A Tapestry of Triumph: The Class of 2026

The 2026 inductees represent a remarkable diversity of industry, geography, and paths to success, showcasing the multifaceted nature of Canadian business leadership. The honourees include a pioneer of the beverage industry, a transformative Indigenous leader, the stewards of a multi-generational family enterprise, and the architects of a modern baking empire.

Anthony von Mandl, O.C., O.B.C., the Founder, Owner, and CEO of The Mark Anthony Group of Companies, is being recognized for his revolutionary impact on the Canadian beverage industry. Von Mandl is widely credited with pioneering the high-end winemaking industry in British Columbia's Okanagan Valley, transforming it into a world-class wine region. His entrepreneurial vision created a leading independent producer and marketer of fine wine, spirits, and ready-to-drink beverages that have become household names.

Chief Terry Paul, O.C., has led the Membertou First Nation for 39 consecutive years, orchestrating one of the most successful community transformations in the country. Under his guidance, Membertou has become a model of Indigenous economic development and self-sufficiency. The community doubled its land base, saw its employment rate soar to nearly 80%, and in 2002, became the first Indigenous government in the world to achieve ISO 9001 certification. This focus on excellence has been paired with a deep commitment to education, raising graduation rates from 30% to 90% and securing a brighter future for Membertou's youth.

Representing a legacy of enduring success, Hartley T. Richardson and Carolyn A. (Richardson) Hursh of James Richardson & Sons, Limited will be inducted as co-honourees. As the current CEO and the former Honorary Chairman, respectively, they represent the fifth generation of leadership for the Winnipeg-based family company founded in 1857. Their stewardship has guided the firm's growth from a grain merchant into a global force with diversified interests in agriculture, oil and gas, financial services, and real estate, demonstrating a powerful blend of tradition and forward-thinking strategy.

Finally, the entrepreneurial spirit of the Ajmera family will be celebrated through the induction of Soham (Sam) Ajmera and his sons, Ojus and Tejus Ajmera, of The FGF Group of Companies. The family founded FGF Brands in 2004, building it into one of North America's largest producers of naan, flatbreads, and other baked goods, including the popular "Stonefire" brand. Leveraging technology and a culture of innovation, they have disrupted the traditional baking industry, continuing a legacy Sam Ajmera began when he co-founded the successful Dough Delight in 1974.

Beyond the Boardroom: Sponsorship as a Catalyst for Legacy

The involvement of KingSett Capital and Scotiabank as Presenting Sponsors underscores a growing trend of strategic corporate philanthropy, where community investment aligns directly with core business values. Their support is not merely a charitable donation but a partnership aimed at celebrating excellence and fostering the next wave of Canadian innovators.

"KingSett Capital is honoured to co-sponsor the 2026 Canadian Business Hall of Fame gala, celebrating Canadian business leaders who exemplify integrity, vision and sustainable growth - values we live by," said Jon Love, Executive Chair and Founder of KingSett Capital. He also noted the firm's long-standing relationship with the Richardson family, stating, "This year’s honourees include our long-time friends and partners Hartley Richardson and Carolyn Hursh, whose leadership has grown James Richardson & Sons into a global force... They demonstrate the entrepreneurial spirit and community commitment that shapes Canada’s success and will inspire generations to come."

For Scotiabank, the sponsorship is an extension of its long-term commitment to youth development and community prosperity through its ScotiaRISE initiative. "The Canadian Business Hall of Fame celebrates what is possible in this country – when ideas are bold, leadership is principled, and success is shared," remarked Chris Manning, Executive Vice President, Canadian Commercial Banking at Scotiabank. "Through our support of Junior Achievement of Canada, we’re investing in what comes next – helping ensure that today’s ambition and ingenuity continue to shape tomorrow’s Canadian leaders."

Fueling the Future: The JA Canada Connection

Behind the glamour of the gala is a powerful engine for social impact. The Canadian Business Hall of Fame was established by JA Canada in 1979, and the annual ceremony remains its signature fundraising event. The proceeds directly support JA's mission to provide Canadian youth with immersive programs focused on work readiness, financial health, and entrepreneurship.

The impact of this funding is substantial. A study by the Boston Consulting Group found that for every dollar invested in JA Canada, the organization creates a $45 return to society. Its alumni are 50% more likely to open their own businesses, launching an estimated 6,500 new companies each year. They are also three times more likely to hold management positions and report higher career satisfaction.

Scott Hillier, CEO of JA Canada and the Canadian Business Hall of Fame, praised the sponsors for their commitment. "As champions of excellence, innovation, and collaboration, Scotiabank and KingSett Capital demonstrate their commitment to fostering a prosperous, inclusive, and forward-looking Canadian business community," Hillier stated.

The ceremony, therefore, creates a virtuous cycle: it honours the icons who have built modern Canada while simultaneously raising the necessary funds to equip the young people who will build its future. As the nation prepares to celebrate the remarkable achievements of the 2026 inductees, their stories of perseverance and vision will serve as powerful inspiration for the thousands of students participating in JA programs from coast to coast to coast.