The CEO of Sleeping Giant Brewery is a finalist for the Canada Innovation and Entrepreneurship Award (CANIE Awards).
Founded in 2012, Drea Mulligan has led the company to grow into a multi-million dollar business.
There were over 420 submissions for the CANIE Awards, which celebrate business leaders and their achievements.
Recent statistics found only two per cent of female-led businesses exceed $1-million dollars in yearly revenue.
Mulligan encourages other women to take on leadership roles in business.
“The challenge to authentically do more, grow, and be better both professionally and personally, inspires me,” explains Mulligan. ” Setting an example for my 20-year-old daughter, as well as other female entrepreneurs in our city and Northwestern Ontario keeps me motivated and proud to have the privilege to do what I do. I believe if you can do it, you should do it.”
Mulligan goes on to explain the experience of being a leader in a male dominated profession.
“People still give me that surprised look when they find out a woman owns the brewery, but I’ve also been told our branding, beer, and community relationships have a certain touch to them—perhaps something the industry isn’t quite used to. When you add diversity to your leadership team, you allow for different ideas and perspectives.”
The CEO is also one of seven finalists in the category of Women Entrepreneur of the Year Award.
Winners are expected to be announced in the fall.
