Family Enterprise Canada Awarded Prestigious International Honor for Innovation in Sustainable Development
Abu Dhabi, November 20, 2023 — Family Enterprise Canada (FEC) was recently recognized with a significant international accolade at the 2023 ISAR Honours, held during the 8th World Investment Forum in Abu Dhabi, UAE. This prestigious award celebrates FEC’s innovative, groundbreaking program, Family Business for Sustainable Development (FBSD), that exemplifies exceptional commitment to sustainable development and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
ISAR Honours, an initiative by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), focuses on globally promoting and harmonizing sustainability and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) reporting. The program has seen remarkable growth since its pilot edition in 2018, receiving a record 70 applications this year, more than double the number of its inaugural edition.
“FEC’s sustainable development initiative focuses on a holistic approach to growth that seeks to balance economic, social, and environmental objectives,” said Olivier de Richoufftz, General Secretary of Family Enterprise Foundation, which funds FEC’s research initiatives. “Canada’s FBSD program was recognized for its approach to promoting family business strategies that ensure financial stability while considering the broader impact on society and the environment.”
FEC’s Family Business for Sustainable Development program is closely aligned with the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a collection of 17 global goals to address the world’s most pressing challenges by 2030, including poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace, and justice.
Family Enterprise Canada’s FBSD program supports these goals, is committed to transparent reporting, and conducts business with fair labour practices, community engagement, and initiatives that support the well-being of employees, customers, and the communities in which they operate.
The 2023 ISAR Honours highlighted the extraordinary efforts of organizations worldwide, with a particular emphasis on enhancing the quality and comparability of companies’ contributions to the SDGs. The increasing number of applications showcases a global commitment to sustainable development, particularly among developing countries.
The Family Business for Sustainable Development program stood out among the diverse array of 25 international initiatives, including training programs, institutional developments, awards programs, and efforts to harmonize reporting practices. FEC’s achievement reflects its pivotal role in raising awareness and implementing international best practices in sustainability reporting.
Family Enterprise Canada’s recognition at the ISAR Honours underscores the organization’s impact on global sustainable development efforts and its leadership in promoting responsible business practices.
About Family Enterprise Canada
Family Enterprise Canada is a national community, resource centre and learning hub for business families and certified Family Enterprise Advisors. We empower families with the resources needed to navigate challenges and embrace opportunities unique to working with loved ones.
Our members connect, learn and grow together through dynamic social and educational events, intimate peer-to-peer advisory groups, one-on-one mentorship, online and in-person learning experiences and access to professionals that are specially trained in family business dynamics.
We believe family businesses are essential to building a better tomorrow for Canada’s communities and economy. Our role? To foster their strength and success.
Media Contact
Sheila Scott
National Director, Marketing & Communications
Family Enterprise Canada
T: 647.521.7812
E: sscott@FamilyEnterprise.ca