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W. Brett Wilson

CBC Dragon, Celebrated Entrepreneur & Philanthropist

Known as the newest member of the CBC's Dragon's Den, Brett Wilson's knowledgeable, energetic and down-to-earth nature has endeared him to many. He has been a key player in the development and success of a number of investment-based companies including FirstEnergy Capital Corporation and the Prairie Merchant Corporation. Brett's extensive entrepreneurial experience, made him an ideal fit for the Dragon's Den, where he has offered invaluable advice, support and funding for a number of entrepreneurial ideas. In addition to his professional success, he is one of Canada's most significant philanthropists, having raised or helped to raise millions of dollars for non-profit organizations.

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One of Canada’s most successful entrepreneurs and respected philanthropists, W. Brett Wilson is also one of the country’s most sought-after public speakers. A popular panellist on CBC’s hit show Dragons’ Den, Brett offers his insights into business and life with a surprising mix of humour and heart-warming candour.

Singled out as Alberta’s 2008 Business Person of the Year by Alberta Venture Magazine and named Calgary’s 2007 Person of the Year by Avenue Magazine, Brett’s commitment to excellence and innovation has not only revolutionized the business sector in which he operates, but the community in which he lives, inspiring others to see how they can leave an equally unique mark on the world.

His personal charisma and small-town charm have gained him a national audience, a platform he uses to inspire others to “do what’s right” – making a commitment to personal integrity, community involvement, and work/life balance. Brett uses his own larger-than-life story to illustrate what he has learned about the real meaning of success.

After graduating from the University of Saskatchewan with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering, and a MBA from the University of Calgary, Brett began his career as an investment banker for McLeod Young Weir Limited (now Scotia McLeod).

In 1993, he became one of the founding partners of Calgary’s FirstEnergy Capital Corp., now the energy industry’s leading investment bank, which has brokered thousands of financings and M&A deals worth over $150 billion. His instinct for investing in the right people has also translated into major holdings in the energy, agriculture, real estate, sports, and entertainment industries, financed through his own innovative investment bank, Prairie Merchant.

Using his business success as a vehicle for giving back, Brett is one of Canada's most innovative philanthropists, having raised or helped to raise millions of dollars for non-profit initiatives. He has been honoured as a Distinguished Lecturer at the University of Saskatchewan, and has earned the International Legacy of Honour from the Young Presidents’ Organization for his commitment to excellence in business, community orientation, and the ideals of YPO.