Sleeping Giant Brewery was founded in 2012, and since then has grown into a multi-million dollar business.

The success has lead to company CEO Drea Mulligan to be one of 35 finalists for the 2021 Canada Innovation and Entrepreneurship Award (CANIE Awards). The annual awards celebrate business leaders across the country and their achievements.

This year, there were over 420 submissions for the CANIE Awards.

Recent statistics found only 2 per cent of female-led businesses exceed one-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 autumn.