Ann Canela is a passionate and visionary leader with more than 14 years of experience in strategic philanthropy and nonprofit management. As the director of Corporate Giving at Niagara Bottling, she oversees the design and implementation of Niagara Cares, the charitable division of the largest family-owned bottled water company in the US.
Ann leverages her skills in grant-making, partnership development, team building, and operational excellence to maximize the effectiveness and impact of Niagara Cares' activities and drive positive change in the world. She cultivates and nurtures relationships with charities and nonprofits across various sectors and regions, ensuring alignment with Niagara's broader business goals and values. She also collaborates with internal stakeholders, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and kindness.
Prior to Niagara Cares, Ann spent 10 years at the intersection of ultra-high net worth donors and startup philanthropy. She has worked with sovereign wealth, family offices, and multinational corporations. She was on the team that brought Red Nose Day to the United States and launched the first donor-advised fund for the everyday individuals: Growfund.
Ann is a strong believer in the power of technology, human intuition, and empathy to solve the most pressing social and environmental challenges. She is a mentor, a coach, and a role model for her team and her peers, inspiring them to achieve their full potential and make a difference.