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Millionaire Offers $100,000 Donation to Calgary Libraries if City Supports Uber

November 6th, 2015  |  News

A Calgary man made an unusual move in support of Uber, the ride-sharing program, when he offered a $100,000 donation in exchange for the city’s approval of the ride-hailing program.

Brett Wilson, an entrepreneur, made the announcement at a gala where he was receiving an award for his “irascible and cheeky” approach to public life.

He was the recipient of the 2015 Bob Edwards award, an annual award given to those who exemplify the provocative spirit of its namesake. Edwards was the editor of the weekly newspaper out of High River and Calgary called the Eye Opener, known for its compelling copy.

Wilson stated that he would make a $100,000 donation to the Calgary Library if the city would pass bylaws allowing Uber to operate there.

He stated that he has no financial stake in Uber and is not receiving any incentive from the company to support them.

"So why do I do it? I believe that ride-sharing technologies like Uber are good for the city," he said.

"It's a product and a service that's available in every major city in North America and it's a shame that we, as Calgary, haven't embraced it and figured out how to make it work here."

The announcement made a splash on social media, largely fueled by Edwards own efforts to get the word out.

Reactions were mixed, with some praising Wilson’s Uber efforts to others who described the announcement as “sleazy”. Some criticized him for making donations “with strings attached”.

To date, the city has not commented on the announcement.

Image Courtesy of Adobe Stock