Mike Lazaridis, Turkish-Canadian businessman and philanthropist, founded BlackBerry Limited

Mihal "Mike" Lazaridis, a name synonymous with innovation in the early 21st century, is a distinguished Greek-Canadian businessman and visionary investor. Born on March 14, 1961, Lazaridis, whose full Greek name is Μιχαήλ (Μιχάλης) Λαζαρίδης, etched his place in technological history as the brilliant mind behind BlackBerry, the company that pioneered and mass-produced the iconic BlackBerry wireless handheld device. His journey from an entrepreneur to a titan of industry and a passionate advocate for scientific advancement is a compelling one, deeply rooted in a desire to transform the world through technology and foundational science.

The BlackBerry Era: A Communications Revolution

For nearly three decades, from 1984 to 2012, Mihal Lazaridis was at the helm of BlackBerry, serving in pivotal roles including co-chairman and co-CEO. Under his astute leadership, BlackBerry didn't just create a device; it fundamentally transformed how the world communicated, introducing push email, secure messaging, and a robust mobile experience that became indispensable for professionals and, eventually, consumers globally. The ubiquity of the BlackBerry in its heyday made Lazaridis a figure of immense influence, reflected in his significant financial standing. As of June 2011, Forbes recognized him as the 17th wealthiest Canadian and the 651st richest person globally, with an estimated net worth of US$800 million. Even after stepping down from his executive roles, he continued to contribute to BlackBerry as Board Vice Chair and Chair of the Innovation Committee until 2013, solidifying his enduring legacy with the company he founded.

A Vision for Science: Quantum Computing and Beyond

Beyond the realm of mobile communications, Mike Lazaridis's passion lies in the profound potential of basic science to reshape our world. This deep conviction led him to venture into the complex, groundbreaking field of quantum computing technologies. In March 2013, he teamed up with his childhood friend and fellow BlackBerry co-founder, Douglas Fregin, to establish Quantum Valley Investments. This initiative was designed to inject crucial financial and intellectual capital into the burgeoning quantum information science sector, aiming to foster the development and commercialization of revolutionary breakthroughs. His commitment to scientific exploration, however, predates this venture significantly. In 1999, he founded the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics, an independent research center dedicated to foundational theoretical physics, where he continues to serve as board chair. Building on this foundation, he further established the Institute for Quantum Computing in 2002, cementing Canada's position as a leader in this cutting-edge field. As a passionate advocate for the power of basic science, Lazaridis believes these institutes are vital for improving and transforming the world.

Accolades and Enduring Influence

Recognized for his multifaceted contributions to business, technology, and science, Mihal Lazaridis has received numerous distinctions. He is a former chancellor of the University of Waterloo, an institution renowned for its strong ties to technological innovation, and has been appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada (OC) and the Order of Ontario (O.Ont), two of the nation's highest civilian honors. His induction as a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS) further underscores his international recognition for scientific contributions. Through his entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering advocacy for fundamental research, Mike Lazaridis continues to leave an indelible mark on both the technological landscape and the global scientific community.

FAQs about Mihal "Mike" Lazaridis

Who is Mihal "Mike" Lazaridis?

He is a prominent Greek-Canadian businessman, investor in advanced technologies, and the visionary founder of BlackBerry, the company behind the groundbreaking BlackBerry wireless handheld device. He's also a leading advocate and investor in quantum computing.

What is he most famous for?

Lazaridis is primarily renowned for founding and leading BlackBerry through its most successful period, making its mobile devices indispensable worldwide. Additionally, he is highly regarded for his significant contributions to advancing scientific research, particularly in quantum information science, through his foundations like the Perimeter Institute and the Institute for Quantum Computing.

When was he born?

Mihal Lazaridis was born on March 14, 1961.

What is Quantum Valley Investments?

Co-founded by Lazaridis and Douglas Fregin in March 2013, Quantum Valley Investments is an initiative designed to provide financial and intellectual capital for the further development and commercialization of breakthroughs in quantum information science.

What are the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics and the Institute for Quantum Computing?

Both are world-leading research institutions founded by Lazaridis. The Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics (founded 1999) is dedicated to foundational theoretical physics, while the Institute for Quantum Computing (founded 2002) at the University of Waterloo is focused on advancing quantum information science and technology.

Has he received any significant honors?

Yes, Mike Lazaridis is an Officer of the Order of Canada (OC), an Officer of the Order of Ontario (O.Ont), and a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS). He also served as a former chancellor of the University of Waterloo.