Business leaders from across Canada gathered in Calgary on September 17 for the Calgary stop of the 2026 Canadian Business Leader Awards Dinner, an event organized by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce to recognize individuals who have shaped the country’s economy and business community.
François Poirier, President and CEO of TC Energy, received the Canadian Business Leader of the Year Award. According to the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, Poirier has helped position TC Energy at the forefront of North America’s energy sector during his tenure, overseeing the advancement of major infrastructure projects and efforts to strengthen cross-border collaboration. The organization credited his leadership with supporting economic growth and creating opportunities for communities across the continent.
A Lifetime of Business and Philanthropy
Dr. Dave Werklund, Founder and Executive Chairman of the Werklund Family Office, was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce described his career as spanning entrepreneurship, vision and philanthropy, beginning in Alberta’s energy sector before he went on to build one of Canada’s leading environmental services companies. His decades of leadership and charitable giving were cited as having left a lasting mark on business, education and community development in Canada.
Candace Laing, President and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, welcomed attendees to the dinner and spoke about the importance of recognizing leaders whose work continues to advance Canada’s economic interests. The event drew business leaders, partners and stakeholders from multiple sectors who came together to celebrate the two honourees and their contributions to the country’s economic success.
Event Details and Support
Entertainment for the evening was provided by the Swingsetters, a local group that has performed at the awards dinner in previous years. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce thanked attendees, sponsors and the Hyatt Regency Calgary, which hosted the event, for their support in making the evening possible.
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce stated that it views a strong business community as essential to building a stronger economy, and said the achievements of this year’s recipients reflect investments, innovations and opportunities that support Canada’s prosperity.
This article references reporting from:
