The Exit Strategy: Succession Support for Small Businesses.
Designed for business owners looking to sell their business.
Program Info
Between 2025 and 2027, an estimated $1 trillion will transfer from Canadian boomers to their heirs—yet only 15% of Canadians have an estate plan, putting much of that wealth at risk. Among small business owners, the picture is equally concerning. Just 9% have a written exit plan. At Business Centre Guelph Wellington, we use the term EXIT planning to reflect that it’s not always about succession – every entrepreneur needs a plan.
The SBEC program is delivered locally by Business Centre Guelph Wellington and funded in partnership with the Government of Ontario.
- Partners: Succession Ontario
- Intake Ongoing
What Are The Key Challenges In Succession Planning
- Lack of Planning – Most businesses are unprepared, overly reliant on the owner, and without successors.
- Overvaluation – Emotional ties often lead to unrealistic expectations.
- Limited Buyers – Rural areas face fewer interested successors.
- Tax & Legal Complexities – Poor planning can result in costly mistakes.
- Emotional Barriers – Many owners struggle with letting go or planning what comes next.
- Poor Documentation – Disorganized records hinder sales or transition.
What Supportive Tools & Resources BCGW Can Provide:
- Certified Exit Planning Advisors (CEPAs)
- Independent business valuations
- Succession planning templates and workshops
- Legal/tax checklists
- Emotional transition coaching
- Buy/sell matchmaking platforms
- Youth and newcomer entrepreneur education
Our Approach at Business Centre Guelph Wellington
EXIT Planning is essential to the small business continuity. We integrate this into early advisory conversations, helping entrepreneurs clarify vision, assess leadership capacity, and prepare for future transitions. Our team includes trusted Advisors and Professional Associates—accountants, lawyers, HR experts, and wealth strategists—supporting owners through valuation, governance, talent development, and legal/financial readiness.
With strategic planning, support, and education, our team of trusted advisors and professionals can help businesses remain viable, communities stay strong, and a new generation of entrepreneurs emerge. The Business Centre Guelph Wellington is here to support you!
Please click on the link below to complete a short intake form. If you should have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to diana@guelphbusiness.com
Click on the button below to access the intake form.