To honor and recognize a woman-identifying or non-binary entrepreneur who is an innovative change-maker in their community and makes conscious everyday decisions to help fight climate change for a sustainable future, Vancity and WeBC are proud to announce the Christine Bergeron Award. The award is a celebration of the extraordinary achievements of women entrepreneurs who demonstrate resilience, innovation, and leadership in building successful businesses that contribute to their communities and beyond. This award honours Christine’s legacy and encourages other women to follow in her footsteps.
About Christine.
A transformative leader, Christine Bergeron has spent over 25 years working with entrepreneurs, financing innovative companies, and building financial firms. She’s the former CEO of Vancity and Chair of WeBC, and is currently the CEO of Concert Properties. Christine is also currently a member of UBC Sauder’s Faculty Advisory Board and a board member with the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade. Christine personifies authentic, values-driven leadership and has created opportunities for women to thrive in business, leadership, and in making their communities better. As a trailblazer and advocate for sustainable growth, this award recognizes her ongoing work and dedication in empowering women entrepreneurs.
About the award.
The Vancity and WeBC Christine Bergeron Award celebrates the extraordinary achievements of women entrepreneurs who demonstrate resilience, innovation, and leadership in building successful businesses that contribute to their communities and beyond. These are women who dream boldly and lead courageously, while making a profound impact.
Award criteria.
We’re looking for nominees who demonstrate the following:
1. Innovation and impact.
- Demonstrates innovative approaches in her business or community projects.
- Has a measurable positive impact on her community through her entrepreneurial activities.
- Introduces new ideas, products, or services that address community needs and promote sustainability.
2. Sustainability and climate action.
- Actively incorporates sustainable practices in her business operations.
- Makes conscious decisions to reduce carbon footprint and promote environmental stewardship.
- Engages in initiatives that contribute to fighting climate change and promoting a sustainable future.
3. Leadership and community engagement.
- Exhibits strong leadership qualities and inspires others in her community.
- Actively participates in community development and social responsibility initiatives.
- Mentors and supports other women entrepreneurs and community members.
4. Ethical business practices.
- Upholds high ethical standards in business operations.
- Demonstrates transparency, integrity, and accountability in all business dealings.
- Puts people at the centre of every decision.
- Promotes fair trade, ethical sourcing, and responsible consumption.
5. Resilience and adaptability.
- Shows resilience in overcoming challenges and adapting to changing circumstances.
- Demonstrates the ability to pivot and innovate in response to market or environmental changes.
- Maintains a positive and proactive approach to problem-solving.
Nomination and selection process.
Eligibility.
Women entrepreneurs who’ve been in business for at least twelve months, are clients of WeBC, and are either Vancity members or have journeyed through Vancity’s Women Entrepreneur Program are eligible. Nominations may be submitted by the entrepreneur herself or by a third party.
Nomination submission.
Applications should include a detailed description of the nominee’s achievements, impact, and alignment with the award criteria. Supporting documents such as business plans, testimonials, and media coverage can be included.
Selection committee.
A diverse panel of judges with expertise in entrepreneurship, sustainability, and community development will review and evaluate nominees based on the award criteria and select the recipient.
Award presentation.
The winner will be announced virtually on Vancity and WeBC social media channels on July 21, 2025. The recipient of this inaugural Christine Bergeron Award will also win a small cash prize to continue making innovative strides in their community.
Nominate a women entrepreneur for the Christine Bergeron Award by completing this nomination form no later than June 30, 2025.
