A new study from the Business Development Bank of Canada suggests that attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, may be more common among entrepreneurs than in the general adult population.
The national survey with responses from 1,463 entrepreneurs across Canada showed that seven per cent of Canadian entrepreneurs have received a professional ADHD diagnosis. When entrepreneurs with symptoms but no formal diagnosis are included, the study showed that nearly one in four entrepreneurs (24.8 per cent) are affected.
“Entrepreneurs drive Canada’s economy, and if one in four are living with ADHD symptoms, that’s significant,” said Pierre Cleroux, vice-president of research and chief economist at BDC, in a news release yesterday. “By talking openly about ADHD and mental health, we recognize the reality of thousands of entrepreneurs and remind them they’re not alone. Supporting their well-being is essential for innovation and growth.”
(Sponsored)
Invest with confidence: Hydro Ottawa funds technical studies for business retrofits
For Ottawa businesses, the opportunity to improve building performance has never been greater. Energy retrofits can cut emissions, strengthen operations, extend the life of assets, reduce operating costs, and position
In a tough economy, investing in community is more important than ever
When finances are tight, it might seem counterintuitive to give back, but supporting our most vulnerable neighbours this holiday season can actually help businesses weather their own challenges. At United
The survey results suggest that ADHD may be more common among entrepreneurs than in the general adult population, where the diagnosis rate is estimated at four to six per cent, according to the Centre for ADHD Awareness Canada. The results also showed that entrepreneurs under age 45 are more likely to report ADHD symptoms (44 per cent), compared to those over 45 (13 per cent). In addition, results indicated that Indigenous entrepreneurs report higher rates than the average entrepreneur, with 14 per cent diagnosed and 38 per cent experiencing symptoms.
“While traits such as creativity, adaptability, hyperfocus and risk tolerance can be advantageous in business, entrepreneurs with ADHD are more likely to face mental health challenges,” said BDC in the release.
According to the results, 39 per cent of those diagnosed report dissatisfaction with their mental health, compared to 16 per cent of those without symptoms. Seventy-one per cent report feeling depressed, while 66 per cent say mental health is interfering with work, and 77 per cent report low energy.
“Canada’s future depends on the resilience and creativity of its entrepreneurs,” Cleroux said in the release. “By understanding and addressing the mental health realities they face, we’re not just supporting individuals, we’re strengthening our entire economy.”
The ADHD-related findings complement data released earlier this year from BDC’s annual mental health survey, conducted between March 3 and 18, 2025, with responses from 1,510 small business owners. In July, BDC reported that 36 per cent of entrepreneurs experience mental health challenges that interfere with work at least weekly.
