About the Institute
The Family Business Institute, officially launched at Ted Rogers School of Management (TRSM) in 2023, is a platform for family business expertise and collaboration.
In Canada, family businesses generate almost half of the private sector real GDP and account for over 63 percent of all private sector companies and nearly 47 percent of private sector employment (via The Conference Board Canada) (external link) .
Given the complex interface between family and business in these firms, family businesses face unique challenges and opportunities that generate complexity but also potential competitive advantages. Although research has deepened our understanding, important questions remain unanswered.
The Family Business Institute welcomed the cast of Bollywed at its inaugural event
A packed crowd attended the campus event on October 23, 2023 with the Singh family - owners of Chandan Fashion and stars of the CBC TV family business reality show Bollywed. The discussion was moderated by Francesco Barbera who also gave a lecture on Adaptation and Innovation in Family Enterprise. Students and external VIP guests were treated to a lively and insightful conversation about lessons in family business from two generations of the family.
70%
of family businesses have an ESG strategy
47%
of Canadian private sector employment is attributable to family businesses (The Conference Board of Canada (opens in new window) )
66%
of ‘next gen’ leaders prompt companies to grow their ESG commitment
49%
of Canadian private sector GDP comes from family businesses (The Conference Board of Canada (opens in new window) )
Dr. Francesco Barbara was honoured with the 2024 Barbara Hollander Award (external link) – a prestigious award from Family Firm Institute (FFI), named after FFI’s founder and first President. Award recipients are selected for their leadership in promoting the economic and social impact of family businesses, contributions to civic and educational causes as well as active participation in FFI’s educational and organizational activities.
A team of undergraduate students represented Ted Rogers School in Vermont, USA in 2023 and 2024 at the Schlesinger Global Family Enterprise Case Competition and earned a podium spot both years. Students received a rewarding once-in-a-lifetime learning experience where they met students and executives from approximately 12 countries spanning 4 continents. (From left to right: Francesco Barbera, Kieran Gibson, Payten Cervini, University of Vermont Student Rep, Jerry Gao, Jack Scanlon and Janie Goldstein.)
The Family Business Institute is an ideal opportunity for PhD candidates and visiting scholars
PhD candidates pursuing opportunities at TMU who are interested in family business should review the information found on the PhD Management page and contact Dr. Francesco Barbera.
Those who are already enrolled in a PhD program elsewhere are encouraged to inquire about our visiting PhD program.
We are also actively encouraging visiting scholars for visits up to three months.