Attend the 2025 IDEATE Student Presentation with NFL legend, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, Steve Young
Students can connect with 2025 International Distinguished Entrepreneur Award recipient and business community at engaging Q&A
On May 21, 2025, UM students are invited to learn from an accomplished business leader, compassionate philanthropist, and decorated professional athlete.
Steve Young is the recipient of the 2025 International Distinguished Entrepreneur Award (IDEA), the highest honour given by The Associates of the Asper School of Business and the University of Manitoba.
This May, Young will share his journey with students here on campus at the IDEATE Student Presentation, sponsored by Princess Auto and held at the Desautels Concert Hall. Invitations are extended to UM students and high school students from across Manitoba.
An inspiration for business students and more
Bruno Silvestre, Dean of the Asper School of Business and CPA Manitoba Chair in Business Leadership, expresses the significance of the annual IDEATE Student Presentation and the excitement for Young’s arrival.
“Here at the Asper School, we train students to thrive in business and contribute to the social and economic future of Manitoba. As UM’s connection to the business community, the Asper School is proud to offer all students the opportunity to connect with and learn from real business leaders.”
“We are honoured to welcome Steve Young to our School and host him for this exclusive event made possible by the generous support of The Associates of the Asper School of Business” says Dean Silvestre. “I am excited to learn from Mr. Young’s storied career and commitment to giving back, and I can’t wait to hear the questions and curiosity from a room full of students.”
A career in making plays, giving back, and starting up
Young is the Co-Founder, Chairman, and Managing Partner of Huntsman Gay Global Capital (HGGC), a values-driven, partnership investment firm. He is also the Founder and Chair of the Forever Young Foundation.
Young’s journey from record-breaking student athlete and award-winning NFL quarterback to influential philanthropist and entrepreneur comes with a numerous accolades and achievements.
Completing a fifteen-year NFL career as the quarterback in 1999 with the San Francisco 49ers, Young is a Super Bowl MVP and NFL Hall of Fame inductee. Today, he plays a leading role at HGGC, which has over $8B under management, and he has raised millions for various philanthropic endeavours including the Forever Young Foundation which he has founded.
The Foundation provides millions of dollars annually, supporting primarily mental health awareness and assistance for children and adolescents. Young is also the broadcast host for the Children’s Miracle Network and director on the boards of the Capital Impact Foundation and the Workday Foundation.
An opportunity to meet in person
The 2025 IDEATE Student Presentation invites students to bring their curiosity and questions to the UM on May 21, 2025, to learn from Young’s experiences.
Wondering how team spirit runs through business, sport, and giving? Curious as to how launching a business differs from launching a spiral? Seeking inspiration for career stories not yet written?
Join the Asper School of Business and The Associates this May to ask questions, hear from Young himself, connect with business leaders and faculty, and enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast.
Event Information
IDEATE Student Presentation with Steve Young
May 21, 2025
9:00 a.m. – Doors open
10:00 a.m. – Program begins
Desautels Concert Hall, 150 Dafoe Rd W, University of Manitoba
- Please register for the IDEATE Student Presentation
- Continental breakfast will be served.
Recognizing the best in entrepreneurship for over four decades
Since 1984, The Associates of the Asper School of Business have presented the International Distinguished Entrepreneur Award (IDEA) to illustrious business leaders who have achieved international stature, outstanding entrepreneurial success and have made an exemplary global contribution. IDEA is an internationally recognized, prestigious honour.
Steve Young will be presented with the award at the 41st IDEA dinner on May 21, 2025, in Winnipeg at the RBC Convention Centre.
A remarkable combination of character, judgement and athletic ability combined with a will to succeed in making the world a better place makes Steve Young a natural pick as the Associates 2025 International Distinguished Entrepreneur Award recipient”. Says IDEA Chair, Paul Soubry and Asper Alumnus.
RBC is IDEA’s platinum partner, celebrating entrepreneurial excellence through the IDEA celebration each year.
Read more about Young’s remarkable achievements in the official IDEA 2025 announcement.