Leeds Grenville’s Greatest Entrepreneur organizers have unveiled the five judges for the inaugural Pitch Gala, set for January 28, 2026, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Prescott Town Hall. Presented by Community Futures Grenville and 1000 Islands Community Development Corporation, the competition supports local entrepreneurs with coaching, exposure, and access to significant funding.
Six finalists will compete for two grand prizes valued at $20,000 each, with a judging panel bringing extensive business experience and strong community ties. Wendy Merkley, Barry Moss, Wendy Onstein, Brett Prikker, and Robert Walker were selected for their leadership, entrepreneurial expertise, and mentorship roles across Eastern Ontario. The judges’ combined experience spans technology, finance, consulting, and small business development.
Program partners expressed gratitude to the judges for their time and insight, which will help identify the region’s top entrepreneurial talent. Sponsors supporting the event include iTrepreneur, YourTV, and Beattie Film. Tickets are now available for this exciting celebration of innovation and business excellence in Leeds and Grenville.
Meet the Judges
Wendy Merkley is a senior business leader with a distinguished career in technology and insurance. She
held global leadership roles with an international reinsurance company, was named a 1998 UK Business
Pioneer: Women and the Global Market, and later served as CIO of a Kingston-based insurance
company. Wendy served her community as a municipal councillor, current Vice Chair of the 1000 Islands
CDC Board, chair of the Friends of Rockport Customs waterfront project, a 2020 Bill Thake Award
recipient, and a leader in her family’s marina business.
Barry Moss, President of Four O One Electric, has more than 30 years of entrepreneurial experience. He
grew the company from a small contractor into a business employing over 50 full-time staff. Recently
named Citizen of the Year by the Brockville & District Chamber of Commerce, Barry is known for
mentoring entrepreneurs and supporting community and youth initiatives.
Wendy Onstein has guided hundreds of small business owners as a business consultant. Known for her
practical advice and approachable style, she continues to run Wedding Ceremonies by Wendy and
volunteers with Community Futures Grenville, Leeds Grenville Small Business, and Brockville General
Hospital.
Brett Prikker is Business Centre Manager with the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) in
Kingston, supporting entrepreneurs across Eastern Ontario. With more than 30 years in commercial
banking, he specializes in financing, business growth, and mentorship, and previously served as Board
Chair of Frontenac Business Services Community Futures Development Corporation.
Robert Walker, Owner and Partner of Walker & Associates Professional Corporation, brings over 30
years of experience supporting small businesses, not-for-profits, and individuals. A Chartered Accountant
since 1991 and former Trustee in Bankruptcy, he provides trusted guidance in accounting, taxation, and
financial planning through offices in Prescott and Kemptville.
(By: Tim Baltz)
