Canada’s Best Managed Companies

Recognizing excellence in private Canadian-owned companies.

Have what it takes to be the best?

Celebrating Canadian business excellence

Canada’s Best Managed Companies is Canada’s leading business awards program, recognizing excellence in private Canadian-owned companies. Each year, hundreds of entrepreneurial companies undergo a rigorous application process, but only the best are awarded with this prestigious designation.

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      About Canada's Best Managed Companies

      Established in 1993, Canada’s Best Managed Companies is the country’s leading business awards program, recognizing excellence in Canadian headquartered companies with revenues of $50 million CA or greater. Every year, hundreds of entrepreneurial companies compete for this designation in a rigorous and independent process that evaluates the calibre of their management abilities and practices.

      The Canada’s Best Managed Companies program aims to inspire, celebrate and build a community of private businesses that are creating a better future. A leading business awards program, recognizing excellence in private Canadian-owned companies, it celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit, determination and innovation of the private business community.

      Companies undergo a rigorous application process and are judged on core business criteria across four pillars - Strategy, Capabilities and Innovation, Culture and Commitment, Governance and Financials - by an external panel of judges.

      This prestigious designation becomes a fundamental part of who the Best Managed companies are and how they are perceived in their respective markets. As a member of the community, each company has an obligation to live and uphold the behaviours outlined in this Code.

      The following four commitments illustrate the program’s core expectations of winning companies:
       

      1. Integrity

      As a Best Managed company, we will act lawfully, honestly, ethically and with integrity towards our customers, employees, vendors and stakeholders.

      Best Managed companies are truthful and honest about the business information provided to the Best Managed program:

      • Best Managed companies must abide by federal and provincial laws
      • Best Managed candidates will not exert undue influence upon program coaches, sponsors, or judges
      • Best Managed companies must update any change in business affecting their designation (ownership, financial, legal) when re-qualifying year over year

      Treat interactions with program sponsors, partners and their staff with the same honesty and integrity that you would apply within your own organization.
       

      2. Foster diversity, equity and inclusion

      All Best Managed companies have a role to play in helping Canada on the path to a more inclusive environment. As a member of this community, we foster a culture and working environment where people treat each other with respect, courtesy and fairness, promoting equal opportunity for all.

      • Actively build an anti-racist capability to start making intentional changes within your organization
      • Embed gender and diversity-smart approaches into recruitment & development, including performance management, promotion, succession and pay processes
      • Create and support cultural awareness programs and learnings for all employees
      • Implement employee assistance programs related to diversity, equity inclusion and accessibility so employees can feel comfortable and bring their whole selves to work
      • Provide DE&I training for all members of the organization
      • Provide flexible and accessible work arrangements and remote work opportunities where applicable
         

      3. Commitment to upholding the standard of the Best Managed program designation through the four pillars

      As a Best Managed company, we commit to upholding quality among the four pillars (Strategy, Capabilities and Innovation, Culture and Commitment, Governance and Financials), and the program brand standards and identity.

      Upholding brand standards

      • The Best Managed designation represents represents strong Canadian private companies that are the economic engine of this country. The brand is a result of the outstanding companies in the program and is recognized coast to coast. As a Best Managed company, we agree to uphold this brand legacy and follow brand and logo guidelines.
      • Uphold program brand standards consistent with the four pillars (Strategy, Capabilities & Innovation, Culture & Commitment, Governance & Financials)
      • Proper use of current logo by awarded entity (see ‘Logo use with affiliated companies’).
      • Proper use of designation naming convention – “Canada’s Best Managed Companies”
      • Logo use permitted for duration of program year. Must be removed immediately should the company chose not to re-apply, or become ineligible

      Commitment to upholding the standard of the Best Managed program designation through the four pillars

      • Continuously evolve and improve upon your strategy
      • Drive a culture of innovation and productivity
      • Foster a purpose-led culture
      • Put your customers and employees first
      • Drive year over year revenue growth through strong strategy, governance and operational efficiency
         

      4. Best Managed community role model

      We commit to participate in the Best Managed community through program activities & events, while treating all members with dignity and respect. We also commit to be a respectable citizen within society and doing our part to build a positive future for Canada’s economy.

      • Participate in Best Managed programming and events
      • Act as a mentor to new members of the Best Managed community
      • Engage in social media conversation with Best Managed community (#BestManaged)
      • Act as a Best Managed brand ambassador, abiding by the terms under ‘Upholding brand standards’
      • Contribute to Best Managed objective of ‘making all businesses better’ by participating in research (i.e., surveys, case studies), panels and speaking opportunities

      Canada’s Best Managed Companies is a program that aims to challenge and recognize the overall strength of successful privately-owned companies, while coaching and recognizing their leadership teams.

      1. Canada’s Best Managed Companies program is open to all companies who satisfy the eligibility criteria.
      2. Companies will need to complete a Phase I eligibility form to confirm eligibility via a secure online website.
      3. Applicants will be required to confirm that the information contained in their application form is accurate, and that they have obtained all necessary authorizations, including consents, to permit handling of this information, in accordance with the Canada’s Best Managed Companies program Code of Conduct and Terms and Conditions.
      4. Ensure to check the keydates and submit your application before the deadline.
      5. Applicants that successfully pass Phase I will be notified and invited to proceed to Phase II. Phase II will include an in-depth application, Best Managed Lab, and Coach meetings

        • Best Managed Lab – The Best Managed applicant lab is designed to help companies complete over 80% of the phase 2 application. Deloitte and CIBC facilitators will collaborate with your executive team and focus on key elements of what it takes to be Best Managed.

      6. The Best Managed applicants will be reviewed during regional and national judging processes including a review by an external judging panel consisting of program sponsors and Best Managed CEOs. Companies will be evaluated against the global Best Managed Companies framework in which management abilities and practices are assessed in the following domains: clear strategy, strong capabilities, company commitment and financial performance. The judging panel reserves the right to de-select an application at any stage of the program.
      7. The jury decision of Canada’s Best Managed Companies is based on the information provided by the applicant within the self-assessment, commentary provided by their coaches, and information found during background checks. The applicant remains responsible for the provided information. At no times, should the jury’s decision be interpreted as a professional attestation or opinion based on the necessary audit steps. The judging panel’s decision, regarding the award of the Best Managed Companies program and the companies that will be awarded, is indisputable.
      8. The Best Managed Companies will be announced publicly and dates of winners' announcement will be communicated later.
      9. Canada’s Best Managed Companies program respects the privacy of applicants and their identified contacts and has put in place processes to support this. Individuals may review, update and correct their personal information, and request removal from the mailing list.
      • Focuses on Canadian headquartered or Canadian owned and managed companies
      • Recognizes overall business performance and sustained growth
      • Recognizes the efforts of the entire organization
      • Measures more than financial performance
         

      The four pillars of a Best Managed Company

      Applicants are evaluated against four pillars to determine whether they qualify as a Best Managed Company.

      Frequently asked questions

      Q: What are the award levels?

      • Best Managed new winner (new applicant; year one)
      • Best Managed winner (years 2 & 3)
      • Gold Standard winner (year 4, 5 & 6)
      • Platinum Club member (years 7+)

      The online application system will recognize your company profile and progress to the next level per the above.

      Q: What is the difference between a Best Managed new winner, Best Managed winner, Gold Standard winner and a Platinum Club member?

      A successful first-time applicant becomes one of the Best Managed new winners. First time applicants must complete a two-phased application form – The first part determining eligibility; the second part working with their coaches to answer specific questions regarding their management practices.

      The following year, the winner has the opportunity to 'requalify' and retain their status as a Best Managed winner for two years, along with all benefits of the award. This is a simplified version of the original application form used to verify the candidates' Best Managed status.

      Upon entering its fourth year of the program, a company must successfully complete the original application questions (Phase I and II) once again to be awarded the Gold Standard designation. Companies must demonstrate their commitment to the program throughout their responses.

      Similar to the process in years 2 & 3, companies are invited to complete a simplified application to retain its Gold Standard status for an additional two years (5 & 6).

      To achieve Platinum Club membership, companies must have successfully retained their Best Managed status for six years, continually representing the Best Managed standard of excellence. The application process is once again two-phased; successful completion grants winners the elite Platinum Club designation. Following admission to the Platinum Club, companies must reapply using the simplified application form year after year to retain its designation and all associated program benefits.

      Q: Can a company win a Canada's Best Managed Companies award more than once?

      Absolutely. Per the above, successful applicants progress through the various award levels of the program each year. Companies must apply annually to retain their status, subject to review of management practices.

      Q: How does a company apply to become one of Canada's Best Managed Companies?

      Submit an online Phase I application to start the Canada's Best Managed Companies process during the call for application period.

      Q: Is there a cost to apply to the Canada's Best Managed Companies program?

      There is no fee to apply to the program.

      Q: When is the deadline to apply?

      View the Key dates here.

      Q: Where can I find a sample of the application?

      Please contact the national administrator at bestmanagedcompanies@deloitte.ca

      Q: How do I reset my password?


      A: To reset or retrieve your password, please follow the steps below.

      1. Visit www.bestmanagedcompanies.ca
      2. Click “Apply now” or “Application site”
      3. Click "Sign In"
      4. Enter your email address, and click “Next” 

      You will be redirected to the Deloitte multi-factor authentication (MFA) page. From here, select “Forgot password?” which will trigger an email to your inbox with instructions for resetting your password. Please follow the instructions provided to reset your password.

      • Password history is enabled to prevent re-use of passwords (temporary passwords expire after 24 hours)
      • Passwords reset every 84 days
      • Account is locked after 5 failed attempts
      • Password reset links expire after 2 hours


      Q: What else do I need my username and password for?

      A: Once the Phase I application has been submitted, you will need your username (email address) and password to see all Phase I information. If you are advanced to Phase II, you will be able to use your username and password to access your coach's contact information and the Phase II application. If you are a winner, you may use your username and password to retrieve information regarding exclusive events such as the gala and symposium, to download the Best Managed logos and logo usage guidelines and other promotional documents, etc.

      Q: What does it mean when the system tells me my account has been locked out?

      A: After five unsuccessful login attempts, the system will automatically lock you out for 30 minutes for security purposes. Once the 30 minutes has expired, close your browser, clear your browser cache, and try logging in again. If you have forgotten your password, you can reset it by clicking on the "Forgot your password" link located after the “Sign In” page. An email with instructions to reset your password will be sent to your email address. Please follow these instructions to reset your password. Once your password has been reset, you will still be required to wait 30 minutes before attempting to log in again.

      Q: How do I update my company's profile?

      A: Please submit your application prior to updating any information on your company profile; the system will automatically transfer this information to the application form, and all individuals with access to the application will be able to update the  company profile at any time by signing in with the designated username and password. On the home page, select the "Company details" tab and click "edit." Be sure to save any changes you make using the “save” button at the bottom of each page.

      Q: What is the privacy policy regarding the handling of my information?


      A: Privacy & Confidentiality Notice

      Your information
      Information collected by Deloitte LLP and the other Program sponsors (collectively, "Canada's Best Managed Companies" and also referred to below as "we", "us", or "our") is used to evaluate eligibility and candidacy for, and to support the activities, administration, and analysis of the Canada's Best Managed Companies Program (the "Program"). Information collected as part of the Program, including but not limited to contact information of participants, information supporting an organization’s candidacy and evaluation, and information collected through Program events (“Participant Information”) may be retained and used by Canada's Best Managed Companies, its sponsors, or other service providers in order to support the activities, administration and analysis of the Program. Participant Information may also be used to identify and inform you by using electronic messaging and other forms of communications, about services, information, and events when Canada's Best Managed Companies believe these communications and opportunities will interest you, and for research and development purposes. Participant Information may be aggregated and Deloitte LLP may use, disclose, or make public that information as part of research and advice, including benchmarking, provided that such Participant Information will be de-identified and not subject to association with the participant. Participant Information collected by or provided to Canada’s Best Managed Companies may be used, processed, disclosed and stored outside of Canada. Participant Information may also be shared with third parties that provide administrative, technical, or support services to Canada's Best Managed Companies. Participant Information may also be shared with other Deloitte entities, including but not limited to Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, a UK private company limited by guarantee (“DTTL”), its member firms and their respective subsidiaries and affiliates (including Deloitte LLP). Participants agree that Canada's Best Managed Companies may incorporate a link to their corporate website into www.bestmanagedcompanies.ca if they are successful. By submitting an application, documents, or information to Canada's Best Managed Companies, you consent to the collection, use and disclosure of such information in accordance with this notice, including sharing of your information with Program sponsors.

      Information security
      Steps to safeguard information provided to Canada’s Best Managed Companies including, but not limited to participant information include password-protecting access to participant profiles on our website, as well as technological and organizational measures to protect information against loss of and unauthorized access to your information. Where Canada’s Best Managed Companies works with third parties, we take measures to ensure your information receives an appropriate level of protection, including contractual safeguards in agreements with Program sponsors and members of the Canada’s Best Managed Companies Selection Board. Information may be disclosed to law enforcement, regulatory or other government agencies or third parties, where necessary or desirable to comply with legal or regulatory obligations or requests or in support of the administration of the Program or to otherwise provide infrastructure support to Deloitte.

      Your choices
      Canada's Best Managed Companies respects the choices of participants and their identified contacts. Individuals may review, update and correct their personal information, and request removal from our mailing list or sponsor mailing lists at any time. However, certain elements of the Program regarding application status and Program updates will require system-generated messages to be sent. Program participants cannot opt out from receiving these messages without withdrawing from the Program.

      Updates to the Privacy and Confidentiality Notice
      Canada’s Best Managed Companies may update this Privacy & Confidentiality Notice from time to time, in our sole discretion, by placement of an updated Privacy & Confidentiality Notice on this website, with the date of the most recent update at the bottom of this page. Participants are encouraged to periodically review this Privacy & Confidentiality Notice from time to time, so as to be aware of any changes.

      Contact us
      Contact Canada's Best Managed Companies Program if you have questions or concerns about our handling of your information by email at bestmanagedcompanies@deloitte.ca.
      Last updated August 2021

       


      Q: Who will have access to my financial information?

      A: Deloitte, CIBC and the judging panel, comprised of program sponsors, will review the financial information put forward. The judging panel is required to sign a Confidentiality Agreement.

      Q: How do I update my company's profile?

      A: You will be able to update your contact information and your company's profile at any time by signing in with your username and password and accessing the "My profile" and "My company's profile" sections.

      Q: One of our Canada's Best Managed Companies contacts has left our company, how do I remove them from our application?

      A: Please contact the national administrator at bestmanagedcompanies@deloitte.ca.

      Q: How do companies qualify and what is the eligibility criteria?

      A: View the eligibility criteria.

      Q: Can I nominate another company besides my own?

      A: Absolutely. Email us at bestmanagedcompanies@deloitte.ca.

      Q: What decision criteria do you use to determine Canada's Best Managed Companies?

      A: We examine four categories of a company's structure: strategy, capabilities and innovation, culture and commitment and governance and financials. See evaluation framework for more information.

      Q: How much does my revenue and revenue growth factor into the judges' decision?

      A: Financial strength is certainly important when determining a company's stability however, Best Managed is an all-encompassing program which focuses on a number of areas to measure management strength. Regional economic conditions and industry trends are considered while evaluating the financial component of your application.

      Q: How do you decide which companies move to Phase II of the application process?

      A: Deloitte and CIBC leaders review the Phase I applications for eligibility and determine those that move forward.

      Q: What are the benefits of applying to this program?


      A: The benefit of applying. That’s right, you benefit even if you don’t win!

      • Coaching from Deloitte and CIBC professionals
      • Detailed self-analysis of your business focused on strategic and operational issues
      • Shine a light on current best practices and areas for improvement

      The benefit of winning. All the benefits of applying, plus more in store for winners!

      • Exclusive use of the Canada’s Best Managed Companies designation
      • Extensive national, regional and local media exposure
      • Access to year-round networking opportunities with other exceptional business leaders
      • Strengthened ability to attract and retain talent
      • Recognition by over 2,000 business influencers at an exclusive gala celebration
      • Celebrate the efforts and commitment of your entire company
      • Professional development at the Canada’s Best Managed Companies symposium featuring the latest in business leadership and cutting-edge thinking

      Q: How much media coverage can I expect to receive?

      A: All Best Managed companies are included in national media coverage announcing the winners annually. Many of our winners are approached for additional media opportunities specific to their industry and/or region. Best Managed companies may also be featured in editorial coverage by our media sponsor throughout the year.

      Q: What makes this awards program different than the others out there?

      A: The Canada's Best Managed Companies award recognizes your entire company. It's uniquely Canadian, and it measures more than strong financial performance. The Best Managed program continues to grow internationally with presence in 37 countries and continued global expansion.

      The Canada’s Best Managed Companies program aims to inspire, celebrate and build a community of private businesses that are creating a better future. A leading business awards program, recognizing excellence in private Canadian-owned companies, it celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit, determination and innovation of the private business community.

      Companies undergo a rigorous application process and are judged on core business criteria across four pillars - Strategy, Capabilities and Innovation, Culture and Commitment, Governance and Financials - by an external panel of judges.

      This prestigious designation becomes a fundamental part of who the Best Managed companies are and how they are perceived in their respective markets. As a member of the community, each company has an obligation to live and uphold the behaviours outlined in this Code.

      The following four commitments illustrate the program’s core expectations of winning companies:
       

      1. Integrity

      As a Best Managed company, we will act lawfully, honestly, ethically and with integrity towards our customers, employees, vendors and stakeholders.

      Best Managed companies are truthful and honest about the business information provided to the Best Managed program:

      • Best Managed companies must abide by federal and provincial laws
      • Best Managed candidates will not exert undue influence upon program coaches, sponsors, or judges
      • Best Managed companies must update any change in business affecting their designation (ownership, financial, legal) when re-qualifying year over year

      Treat interactions with program sponsors, partners and their staff with the same honesty and integrity that you would apply within your own organization.
       

      2. Foster diversity, equity and inclusion

      All Best Managed companies have a role to play in helping Canada on the path to a more inclusive environment. As a member of this community, we foster a culture and working environment where people treat each other with respect, courtesy and fairness, promoting equal opportunity for all.

      • Actively build an anti-racist capability to start making intentional changes within your organization
      • Embed gender and diversity-smart approaches into recruitment & development, including performance management, promotion, succession and pay processes
      • Create and support cultural awareness programs and learnings for all employees
      • Implement employee assistance programs related to diversity, equity inclusion and accessibility so employees can feel comfortable and bring their whole selves to work
      • Provide DE&I training for all members of the organization
      • Provide flexible and accessible work arrangements and remote work opportunities where applicable
         

      3. Commitment to upholding the standard of the Best Managed program designation through the four pillars

      As a Best Managed company, we commit to upholding quality among the four pillars (Strategy, Capabilities and Innovation, Culture and Commitment, Governance and Financials), and the program brand standards and identity.

      Upholding brand standards

      • The Best Managed designation represents represents strong Canadian private companies that are the economic engine of this country. The brand is a result of the outstanding companies in the program and is recognized coast to coast. As a Best Managed company, we agree to uphold this brand legacy and follow brand and logo guidelines.
      • Uphold program brand standards consistent with the four pillars (Strategy, Capabilities & Innovation, Culture & Commitment, Governance & Financials)
      • Proper use of current logo by awarded entity (see ‘Logo use with affiliated companies’).
      • Proper use of designation naming convention – “Canada’s Best Managed Companies”
      • Logo use permitted for duration of program year. Must be removed immediately should the company chose not to re-apply, or become ineligible

      Commitment to upholding the standard of the Best Managed program designation through the four pillars

      • Continuously evolve and improve upon your strategy
      • Drive a culture of innovation and productivity
      • Foster a purpose-led culture
      • Put your customers and employees first
      • Drive year over year revenue growth through strong strategy, governance and operational efficiency
         

      4. Best Managed community role model

      We commit to participate in the Best Managed community through program activities & events, while treating all members with dignity and respect. We also commit to be a respectable citizen within society and doing our part to build a positive future for Canada’s economy.

      • Participate in Best Managed programming and events
      • Act as a mentor to new members of the Best Managed community
      • Engage in social media conversation with Best Managed community (#BestManaged)
      • Act as a Best Managed brand ambassador, abiding by the terms under ‘Upholding brand standards’
      • Contribute to Best Managed objective of ‘making all businesses better’ by participating in research (i.e., surveys, case studies), panels and speaking opportunities

      Canada’s Best Managed Companies is a program that aims to challenge and recognize the overall strength of successful privately-owned companies, while coaching and recognizing their leadership teams.

      1. Canada’s Best Managed Companies program is open to all companies who satisfy the eligibility criteria.
      2. Companies will need to complete a Phase I eligibility form to confirm eligibility via a secure online website.
      3. Applicants will be required to confirm that the information contained in their application form is accurate, and that they have obtained all necessary authorizations, including consents, to permit handling of this information, in accordance with the Canada’s Best Managed Companies program Code of Conduct and Terms and Conditions.
      4. Ensure to check the keydates and submit your application before the deadline.
      5. Applicants that successfully pass Phase I will be notified and invited to proceed to Phase II. Phase II will include an in-depth application, Best Managed Lab, and Coach meetings

        • Best Managed Lab – The Best Managed applicant lab is designed to help companies complete over 80% of the phase 2 application. Deloitte and CIBC facilitators will collaborate with your executive team and focus on key elements of what it takes to be Best Managed.

      6. The Best Managed applicants will be reviewed during regional and national judging processes including a review by an external judging panel consisting of program sponsors and Best Managed CEOs. Companies will be evaluated against the global Best Managed Companies framework in which management abilities and practices are assessed in the following domains: clear strategy, strong capabilities, company commitment and financial performance. The judging panel reserves the right to de-select an application at any stage of the program.
      7. The jury decision of Canada’s Best Managed Companies is based on the information provided by the applicant within the self-assessment, commentary provided by their coaches, and information found during background checks. The applicant remains responsible for the provided information. At no times, should the jury’s decision be interpreted as a professional attestation or opinion based on the necessary audit steps. The judging panel’s decision, regarding the award of the Best Managed Companies program and the companies that will be awarded, is indisputable.
      8. The Best Managed Companies will be announced publicly and dates of winners' announcement will be communicated later.
      9. Canada’s Best Managed Companies program respects the privacy of applicants and their identified contacts and has put in place processes to support this. Individuals may review, update and correct their personal information, and request removal from the mailing list.
      • Focuses on Canadian headquartered or Canadian owned and managed companies
      • Recognizes overall business performance and sustained growth
      • Recognizes the efforts of the entire organization
      • Measures more than financial performance
         

      Canada's Best Managed Companies winners

      The Network

      You don't just win an award, you become part of an exclusive network.

      The Best Managed program is a community defined by passion, resourcefulness, and imagination.

      Meet our sponsors

      Best Managed Companies program is made possible with the support of our sponsors