Canadian Business has recognized Iain Klugman (MPA’90) as one of Canada’s 50 Most Powerful Business People, placing him 36th on the list.

The management alumnus is CEO of Communitech, a non-profit that seeks to support the growth of tech companies. He is credited with helping shape the Waterloo, Ont. region into something more than just a suitable alternative to Silicon Valley: it’s officially a hotbed for tech activity.

Following Klugman’s lead

Large corporations are using Communitech’s space and vision to “think like startups again” and generate innovative ideas.

“We offer them an opportunity to be embedded in the broader tech ecosystem, and through our labs, teach them how to think differently,” Klugman says.

Big names such as TD, Manulife, Deloitte and Thomas Reuters have set up labs at Communitech. Klugman believes that by sharing the same pace with small businesses, the major companies can provide support by investing or becoming customers.

Read more in “Canada’s Most Powerful Business People 2016…” on canadianbusiness.com.

Photo credit: Euan Rocha/Reuters