Leading with Purpose: A Waterside Conversation with Dr. Saad Jasim on Innovation, Clean Technology, and Driving Change

One of the things I’m most grateful for in my role is the opportunity to meet extraordinary people whose work genuinely changes the world. Last Friday at the YQG Green VIP reception, I sat down with Dr. Saad Jasim, an innovator and leader in clean water technology, for a conversation I’ll be thinking about for a long time. We covered everything from the urgency of clean technology to his personal philosophy of leading with purpose—especially when no one is asking for it.

If you’re interested in hearing the whole conversation, you can check it out here.

Investing in Clean Innovation through the IDEA Fund

Dr. Jasim’s perspective on clean innovation couldn’t come at a more crucial time. Years ago, he championed ozone-treated drinking water in Windsor, making it the first municipality in Ontario to implement this approach. Today, his work continues to set global standards for public health and environmental resilience, proving that the power of one initiative can create a ripple effect of change.

This pioneering mindset aligns with our goals through the IDEA Fund at WEtech. Focusing on empowering Canadian companies to develop green and circular solutions that can truly impact our communities. Over the next few years, we have a unique opportunity to invest in entrepreneurs who are tackling sustainability challenges head-on—just as Dr. Jasim has done throughout his career. By backing these founders, we’re helping them get their innovative solutions to market faster, ensuring that impactful ideas find traction when they’re needed most.

A Purpose-Driven Approach to Leadership

One of the most powerful takeaways from my conversation with Dr. Jasim was his view on leadership. Reflecting on his career, he shared, “I always say, we have a role...you’re supposed to make a difference. And I tell that to my students.” His commitment to seeing beyond immediate benefits and creating lasting impact is a powerful example for today’s innovators and entrepreneurs.

This belief in building a better future is central to the IDEA Fund’s mission. Through IDEA, we’re not just funding projects; we’re backing leaders who are driven by purpose and who want to solve real-world problems. In a way, the IDEA Fund is about ensuring that the green and circular solutions of tomorrow have the support they need today.

Facing Uncomfortable Truths to Find Solutions

Dr. Jasim’s candid discussion of the climate crisis was both humbling and inspiring. He explained, “You need to think about new technologies...the drinking water plant is the last line of defense.” The responsibility to act is no longer a choice—it’s a call to action. As we face increasingly urgent environmental challenges, the I.D.E.A Fund is dedicated to helping founders develop the solutions that address these “uncomfortable truths” in real and measurable ways.

By supporting purpose-driven founders, we’re fostering a wave of innovation that isn’t just reactive but proactive—much like Dr. Jasim’s career. We need innovators who can tackle problems before they become crises and who are willing to confront tough issues to make a difference.

More Than Money: Creating Impact Beyond Self-Interest

When I asked Dr. Jasim about what drives him, his response was simple: “You don’t do this for the money...a plaque on the wall, a legacy of solving real problems—those are worth more than thousands of dollars.” This selflessness is at the heart of the IDEA Fund too. We’re working to support founders who are motivated by more than just financial gain—those who want to leave a legacy of impactful, sustainable change.

If you’re as inspired by Dr. Jasim’s story as I am, I encourage you to listen to our full conversation and explore how the I.D.E.A Fund is helping bring green and circular solutions to market. Together, we have an opportunity to drive change and build a sustainable future for generations to come.

To learn more about the IDEA Fund, visit our website.