The 2025 State of the City luncheon was a resounding success, bringing together 500 of Brampton’s business leaders, city officials, and key stakeholders for an afternoon of insights, networking, and celebration.
Mayor Patrick Brown delivered a compelling address, highlighting Brampton’s commitment to innovation, investment, and growth. He emphasized the city’s readiness to “Think Big” and outlined several key initiatives:
- Economic Development: The city has secured over $106 million in annual transit funding through the new Canada Public Transit Fund, aiming to enhance transit infrastructure, reduce emissions, and support transit-oriented communities.
- Infrastructure Projects: The Hurontario Light Rail Transit (LRT) project, officially named the Hazel McCallion Line, is under construction. This 18-kilometer line will run along Hurontario Street from Port Credit in Mississauga to Steeles Avenue in Brampton, with plans to extend into downtown Brampton via a tunnel.
- Community Investments: The city has invested a record $1.75 million in 159 non-profits and charities through the 2025 Advance Brampton Fund, demonstrating a commitment to community development and support.
The event also celebrated outstanding contributions to Brampton’s business community:
- Business Person of the Year: Bill Kanellopoulos, President of Kallo Developments, was recognized for his leadership and impact on the city’s development.
- Mayor’s Recognition of Business Excellence Award: Sun Pharma received this accolade, accepted by Dr. Andreas Wegner and Dr. Jerzy Zadykowicz, acknowledging their excellence in the pharmaceutical industry.
The luncheon featured insights from distinguished speakers, including:
- Jaipaul Massey-Singh
- Chris Rickett
- Gurpartap Singh Toor
- Rowena Santos
- Gabriel Lagunes
- Pardeep Singh Gill
- Dr. Frank Martino
- Ken Mayhew
- Dr. Janet Morrison
- Kate Saldanha
Their contributions added depth to the discussions on Brampton’s future.
Quotes from Regional Councillors
Regional Councillor Rowena Santos, representing Wards 1 and 5, emphasized the importance of community engagement in Brampton’s growth:
“Our city’s progress is a testament to the active participation and dedication of our residents. Together, we are building a Brampton that is inclusive, innovative, and forward-thinking.”
Regional Councillor Paul Vicente, also representing Wards 1 and 5, highlighted the city’s strategic investments:
“By focusing on sustainable infrastructure and economic development, we are laying the foundation for a resilient and prosperous future for all Bramptonians.”
This event was made possible through the generous support of our sponsors:
- Event Collaborator: City of Brampton
- Presenting Sponsor: CN
- VIP Sponsor: Amazon
- Platinum Sponsors: Sheridan, Maple Lodge Farms, Toronto Pearson
- Gold Sponsors: Algoma University, TD, Rogers Cybersecure Catalyst
- Silver Sponsors: Zochem, Turkish Airlines, Alectra
- Swag Sponsor: Brampton Honey Badgers
- Event Partners: Pearson Convention Center (venue), Livecast (AV), Amanda Lee Coffey (photography)
The 2025 State of the City luncheon underscored Brampton’s dynamic growth and the collaborative spirit driving its success. We extend our gratitude to all attendees, speakers, and sponsors for making this event remarkable. We look forward to continued partnership and progress in the coming year.
