On Saturday, a powerful group of 33 Canadian business leaders publicly endorsed Pierre Poilievre and the Conservative Party in a full-page newspaper advertisement. The group, calling themselves the Friends of Free Enterprise in Canada, includes influential figures like Fairfax Financial’s Prem Watsa, often dubbed the “Canadian Warren Buffett,” and former Toronto Sun and Blue Jays executive Paul Godfrey. Their message was clear: Canada needs change, and they believe Poilievre is the one to lead it.
Business Titans Unite for Political Change
The endorsement comes at a critical time. Canada is preparing for a federal election, and concerns about the country’s economic direction are growing. The business leaders behind the ad say Canada is at a crossroads, and the next government’s decisions will have long-lasting effects on the nation’s future.
“Our country stands at a crossroads – and the decisions we make now will shape the future of Canada for generations to come,” the group wrote.
Why They Chose Poilievre
In their public letter, the executives praised Canada’s strengths — its people, values, and natural resources. But they also pointed to serious economic issues. They said productivity has stalled, economic growth has slowed, and GDP per capita is shrinking.
Despite these challenges, the group believes Canada’s decline is not inevitable.
“Canada has everything it needs to thrive,” they stated. “What we need is the right leadership to unlock our potential.”
They argue that Poilievre’s platform embraces the principles that have historically driven prosperity: free enterprise, disciplined government, and bold investment in the future.
A Call for Economic Reform
Among the signatories were Mattamy Homes Chairman Peter Gilgan and real estate developer Howard Sokolowski. These leaders believe Canada’s next prime minister should prioritize entrepreneurship and innovation.
Their suggestions include:
- Removing outdated regulations and cutting red tape
- Supporting the growth of small and large businesses
- Investing in natural resource development like pipelines and mining
- Reforming the tax system to attract global talent
- Controlling government spending in a responsible and sustainable way
The group believes that these changes will not only help businesses grow but also create jobs and lift Canadians across all income levels.
Support for Conservative Economic Policies
The business leaders were firm in their backing of Poilievre’s vision for Canada. They said his policies provide a roadmap for turning around the country’s economic performance.
“They have a clear plan to address these issues and to get Canada back on track,” the letter stated.
Some members even cited global pressures, such as U.S. economic threats under former President Donald Trump, as a reason why Poilievre’s strategy is needed now more than ever.
The Conservative leader has promised to:
- Cut taxes
- Lower the cost of living
- Build more homes
- Expand the output of Canada’s natural resources
- Open up more opportunities for business growth
A Vote of Confidence from Canadian Investors
The endorsement highlights a deep level of trust in Poilievre’s leadership among Canada’s top investors. Many of these executives have spent decades building businesses, creating jobs, and investing in the country.
“We have spent our careers investing in this country because we believe in it,” the ad read. “We believe in the resilience of our people, the strength of our institutions, and the power of free markets to lift everyone.”
Their message to voters is straightforward: if Canadians want economic renewal, Poilievre and the Conservatives are the right choice.
What This Means for the Election
As election day approaches, endorsements from high-profile figures can play a key role in shaping public opinion. Poilievre’s campaign is likely to benefit from the support of these respected business voices, especially among voters who prioritize the economy.
This show of support could also boost investor confidence and send a strong signal to markets that Canada may be on the verge of a pro-business shift in leadership.
