Member of the Order of Canada

• Awarded on: November 19, 2012
• Invested on: September 12, 2014

For his role in developing the technology sector in western Canada, and for fostering innovation in Canadian start-up companies.


Michael Brown is a catalyst of technology development in Western Canada. Over a 40-year period as founder of Ventures West Capital and Chrysalix Energy, he has gained a reputation as a builder of Canadian companies. He has encouraged early-stage investment in innovative companies in fields ranging from space engineering to wireless digital data and fuel cells. Recently, his leadership has had a particular impact on the field of alternative energy, where he has supported industries at the vanguard of environmentally sustainable technology.