(Halifax, 7 July 2011) Entrepreneurs are poised to drive the next major wave of economic growth, but the wider community must do more to support these creative-minded innovators, Ernst & Young said today when revealing this year’s finalists for Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year®.

The Entrepreneur Of The Year Awards recognize the spirit and contribution of entrepreneurs here and around the world. The Canadian program is in its 18th year of honouring the country’s most impressive entrepreneurs from all areas of business. Award winners are chosen based on their vision, leadership, financial success and social responsibility.

SheepDog has recently received word that CEO Julia Rivard has moved forward as a finalist in the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year program.

The Atlantic winners will be announced at a banquet on October 13, and the overall winner will represent the Atlantic region at the national banquet held in Toronto on November 23.