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Heather Reisman

Heather Reisman is a Canadian businesswoman and philanthropist best known as the founder and chief executive officer of Indigo Books & Music.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Heather Reisman is a Canadian businesswoman and philanthropist best known as the founder and chief executive officer of Indigo Books & Music. She also co-founded Kobo and has been widely recognized for her charitable work, especially in literacy and education. Born in Montreal, she built Indigo into Canada's largest bookseller.

Early life and education

Heather Reisman was born in Montreal, Quebec, in 1948. She studied at McGill University and had a background in business and consulting before entering bookselling.

Business career

Reisman founded Indigo Books & Music, which became Canada's largest book retailer. She later co-founded the e-reading platform Kobo in 2009 and has remained a prominent figure in Canadian retail and publishing-related business.

Philanthropy and literacy work

Reisman is associated with major philanthropic efforts focused on reading, literacy, and education. She founded the Indigo Love of Reading Foundation and has supported schools, libraries, and other charitable initiatives.

Honours and recognition

Reisman has received national and academic recognition for her business and philanthropic work. This includes being named an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2019 and receiving honorary degrees from Canadian universities.

Key facts

  • Founded Indigo Books & Music, Canada's largest bookseller.
  • Co-founded the e-reading platform Kobo in 2009.
  • Appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2019.
  • Active philanthropist focusing on literacy and education.
  • Received honorary degrees from Canadian universities.
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Canadian context

Heather Reisman is a major figure in Canadian retail and philanthropy, and her work has had a strong impact on Canadian bookselling, literacy programs, and charitable giving.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Heather Reisman?
Heather Reisman is a Canadian businesswoman and philanthropist best known as the founder and CEO of Indigo Books & Music and co-founder of Kobo.
What company did Heather Reisman found?
She founded Indigo Books & Music, a Canadian retail chain focused on books and lifestyle products.
Did Heather Reisman co-found Kobo?
Yes. She co-founded Kobo, the e-reading platform, and later served as its past chair.
What is Heather Reisman known for besides business?
She is known for philanthropy, especially support for literacy, reading, education, and school libraries.
Has Heather Reisman received official honours in Canada?
Yes. She was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2019.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heather_Reisman
    Supports: Birth date, nationality, occupation, Indigo and Kobo roles, Order of Canada appointment.
  2. Governor General of Canada — https://www.gg.ca/en/honours/recipients/146-9087
    Supports: Order of Canada honour, Indigo leadership, Kobo co-founding, philanthropic activities.
  3. University of Toronto — https://www.utoronto.ca/news/heather-reisman-business-leader-philanthropist-and-champion-literacy-receives-honorary-degree
    Supports: Indigo founding, Kobo co-founding, literacy and philanthropy recognition.
  4. McGill University — https://www.mcgill.ca/newsroom/channels/news/mcgill-honour-two-trailblazing-canadian-leaders-273012
    Supports: Canadian business leadership, Indigo, Kobo, literacy philanthropy, education background.