Pilar Castro Di Carlo, founder and CEO of More Canvas Consulting (MCC), was named a 2026 NJBIZ Leading Women in Business honoree at the awards ceremony held August 18, 2026, at The Palace in Somerset Park, Somerset, N.J. The recognition underscores her role in transforming a consultancy initially focused on supporting artists into a multifaceted firm serving healthcare systems, nonprofits, Ivy League institutions, and small businesses across the Northeast.
Founded in 2014, More Canvas began with the mission of helping creatives navigate administrative and communications tasks that often divert them from their craft. Over twelve years, the firm has expanded into three practice areas: Consulting, Creative, and Coaching. The Coaching practice, formally launched in early 2026 following Castro Di Carlo's completion of a Certificate in Professional Coaching from NYU SPS, reflects an approach that had been part of the firm's client work for years before it became a named offering. More Canvas is a WBENC-certified Women's Business Enterprise and currently operates with an all-women team.
"This kind of recognition rarely reflects one person's work alone," said Castro Di Carlo. "It belongs just as much to the clients and collaborators who've trusted our team to help them navigate change over the years." Her leadership is characterized by a collaborative approach, as evidenced by a client testimonial from a Chief Operating Officer at a National Healthcare Network: "Collaborating with More Canvas has been a pleasure. When implementing a complex initiative — especially one involving multiple departments and stakeholders — More Canvas was exceptional at organizing and synthesizing everyone's input into a clear, logical, and actionable framework."
The significance of this honor lies in its reflection of the growing importance of consultancies that bridge strategic planning with human-centered leadership. Castro Di Carlo's background is notable: she holds an MBA from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, an MFA from NYU Tisch School of the Arts, and a BA cum laude from Princeton University. She also serves on the board of the United Way of Greater Mercer County and is a founding board member of Princeton Arts Alumni. Her mentorship roles include the Princeton University's Entrepreneurship Council START program and E-Club Mentorship program, and she speaks at institutions including The Wharton School on creativity in business.
More Canvas Consulting's client work spans a wide range of industries, from growing medical practices to established nonprofits. The common thread is building infrastructure that serves the people using it and exiting strategically so clients can operate independently. This recognition not only celebrates Castro Di Carlo's achievements but also highlights the impact of women-led businesses in the consulting sector, particularly those that prioritize purpose-driven innovation and sustainable growth. As the firm continues to expand its coaching and consulting services, this award positions More Canvas as a key player in the region's business landscape.
