Robert J. Foster, C.M., is the Founder, President and CEO of Capital Canada Limited, an independent investment banking firm. Mr. Foster focuses on the entrepreneur in the private markets, negotiating and structuring mergers, acquisitions, and financings. He has a strong history of successfully supporting entrepreneurs, with a particular emphasis on aviation, media, sports and entertainment and real estate. His background includes periods as an analyst, director of research, corporate finance, sales, and director of sales.

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Robert Foster serves as Chair of Business and Arts, a national partnership between business and the arts focused on FACE (Facilitating, Advocating, Convening, and Educating) within the sector. He also serves on the boards of the Ontario Arts Foundation, the Harbourfront Foundation, and the TO Live Foundation (as Chair). Previously, Mr. Foster was Chair of TO Live, a board appointed by the Toronto City Council to oversee the business affairs and operational management of the Toronto Theatres. He also served as Chair of Toronto Artscape, Chair of The Canadian Arts Summit, Chair of the Governor General's Performing Arts Awards, Chair of the Schmeelk Foundation, and Chair of Theatre Plus. Additionally, he was a member of Memorial University of Newfoundland and the Luminato board.

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In 2011, Robert Foster served as the Lead Co-Chair for a year-long examination of Toronto’s cultural capacity and priorities, culminating in the Creative Capital Report for the City of Toronto. The City Council embraced the report, which became a guiding document for the city’s cultural funding and growth.

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He also served as Vice Chair of Toronto’s 2008 Olympic Bid.

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Mr. Foster was a member of the National Aboriginal Achievements Foundation (now Indspire) and, as Chair, led the creation of the ballet In the Land of Spirits by John Kimbell.

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Robert Foster has received an appointment to the Order of Canada, the Queen’s Silver Jubilee Medal, and co-recipient of the Rita Davies and Margo Bindhardt Cultural Leader Award. He has also received five Citations of Appreciation signed by former Mayors of Toronto for his leadership contributions to the city over an extended period. A strong advocate for civic engagement, Mr. Foster has stated, “Democracy is not a spectator sport.”

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Over his lifetime, Robert Foster has generously contributed his time, expertise, and financial support to more than 30 city- and nation-building initiatives and organizations.

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Within the business community, Mr. Foster currently serves on the boards of Hunter Amenities, Securcor, and Anthem Media Group. Previously, he served on the boards of Intertape Polymer Group, CHC Helicopters, Golf Town, Cargojet, Canada 3000, and Canadian Airlines Regional.