Sustainable Development Technology Canada Chair Resigns Amid Growing Controversy Surrounding Federal Agency

The Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) has experienced a major shakeup in its leadership as chair Annette Verschuren announced her resignation due to allegations of conflict-of-interest breaches and mismanagement within the federal funding agency. In a letter to Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne, Verschuren stated that she would step down on December 1st.

This resignation comes as the federal ethics commissioner begins a probe into her role in providing $38 million in relief funding for SDTC’s companies during the pandemic, including one she leads as chief executive. Despite having faithfully committed herself and her decision-making to serve the organization’s best interests, Verschuren expressed that it is time for her to step aside. She has been the chair of SDTC’s board of directors since 2019.

The departure of former SDTC CEO Leah Lawrence was also announced, with Lawrence citing a “sustained and malicious campaign to undermine” her leadership as the reason for her departure. The resignation of both Verschuren and Lawrence is likely to have a significant impact on the future direction and leadership of Sustainable Development Technology Canada.