#Canada #Montreal #Horatio Alger #GardaWorld #Stephan Crétier

Stephan Crétier Honored with the 2025 International Horatio Alger Award

On November 12, 2025, Stephan Crétier, the founder, president, and CEO of GardaWorld Security Corporation, was awarded the prestigious 2025 International Horatio Alger Award. This honor is presented to individuals who exemplify the spirit of perseverance through adversity, achieving remarkable personal and professional success. The recognition underscores Stephan's journey from a modest startup to a global leader in the security industry.

A Visionary Journey

Stephan Crétier embarked on his entrepreneurial career in 1995 when he founded GardaWorld with a mere $25,000, funded by a second mortgage on his home. His commitment and vision transformed a small regional security service into one of the largest privately-owned security firms in the world. Today, GardaWorld operates in over 500 locations globally and employs around 132,000 professionals.

Under Crétier's stewardship, GardaWorld has grown significantly, achieving a remarkable recapitalization in 2024 that valued the company at approximately $14 billion. Crétier and his management team now hold about 70% ownership of the company, a testament to their unwavering belief in GardaWorld's potential and their entrepreneurial spirit.

Expanding Services and Innovation

GardaWorld offers various services that cater to security needs in today's fast-paced world:

• - GardaWorld Security: A leading provider of security and protection services for people and assets, trusted by governments and corporations worldwide.
• - Crisis24: An AI-enhanced platform designed for travel risk management and crisis response, ensuring organizations can operate securely amidst uncertainties.
• - ECAM: Known for its AI-driven live surveillance technology, ECAM leads in North America with the vastest network of monitored surveillance systems.
• - Sesami: A business intelligence platform that sets high standards in cash management, currently employed by many top financial institutions and global retailers.

Crétier emphasized, "From day one, my goal was to construct a partnership that acts as a solutions provider with a global reach while nurturing an entrepreneurial spirit." He takes pride in leading a Canadian-founded business on the international stage while remaining committed to innovation and comprehensive security solutions.

Philanthropic Endeavors

Beyond his corporate achievements, Stephan Crétier is recognized for his philanthropic efforts. The Stephan Crétier Foundation supports numerous educational and cultural initiatives, including innovative programs designed to engage citizens in community safety, such as the BOLO Program that leverages technology to assist in locating Canada’s most wanted fugitives.

Adam Daifallah, Executive Director of the Horatio Alger Association of Canada, stated, "Stephan’s recognition marks a proud moment for Canadian entrepreneurship. His journey from a small Canadian startup to leading a significant global organization illustrates the resilience and determination celebrated by our association. He serves as an inspiring model for future entrepreneurs striving for excellence."

Conclusion

The 2025 International Horatio Alger Award is a well-deserved accolade for Stephan Crétier, reflecting not only his dedication to GardaWorld but also his commitment to ethical business practices and community engagement. As GardaWorld continues to expand its services and improve its innovative solutions, Crétier's leadership offers a beacon of inspiration to entrepreneurs around the world.

For more information on GardaWorld and its services, visit gardaWorld.com.