February 6, 2026
By Bob Peters

# **Investment in Business Succession Planning in Cornwall, Ontario**

**Cornwall, Ontario** – The Ontario government has announced a significant investment of nearly **$2 million** aimed at establishing Ontario’s inaugural hub dedicated to business succession planning services. This initiative is designed to assist entrepreneurs in navigating the essential process of smoothly transitioning business ownership, a critical step for the sustainability of local economies.


## **Supporting Transitioning Businesses**

Succession Ontario serves as a vital resource by providing essential tools and specialized guidance for both buying and selling businesses. This initiative not only focuses on the economic health of individual enterprises but also plays a fundamental role in protecting good-paying jobs and fortifying communities throughout the province.

## **Role of Local Business Enterprise Centres**

As part of this initiative, **Small Business Enterprise Centres (SBECs)** across Ontario will receive dedicated training and resources. This enhancement aims to equip these centers with the knowledge and skills necessary to offer personalized advisory services within their respective communities. Specifically, the **Cornwall SDG Business Enterprise Centre**, located at the Civic Complex in Cornwall, stands ready to serve the residents of Cornwall, SDG, and Akwesasne, providing accessible support tailored to local business needs.

## **Quotes from Government Officials**

“Whether it’s a family farm in Prince Edward County or a local convenience store in Sarnia, a small business can leave a lasting positive impact in their community when smoothly bought, sold, or passed to the next generation,” stated **Nina Tangri**, the Associate Minister of Small Business. “As many business owners prepare to retire over the next decade, our government is proactively helping them plan for the future, ensuring their business can continue to thrive under new leadership.”

This initiative reflects the province’s commitment to supporting small businesses, showcasing its potential to strengthen local economies, create jobs, and drive long-term economic growth, all while maintaining Ontario’s competitive edge in the market.

## **Community Impact and Local Voices**

“Local businesses are the backbone of our community, and ensuring their longevity for future generations is paramount,” emphasized **Mireille Lemire**, a Business Advisor at the Cornwall SDG Business Enterprise Centre. “As we incorporate the resources offered by the new Succession Ontario hub, we’re excited about its potential to simplify the planning process for business owners in Cornwall and SDG, facilitating smooth transitions and ensuring business continuity for years to come.”

In light of the ongoing challenges posed by U.S. tariffs affecting various sectors, the Ontario government remains committed to safeguarding provincial interests by implementing tax reductions, cutting red tape, and making strategic investments. By empowering small businesses to thrive, Ontario aims to unleash its economic potential, positioning itself as the most competitive environment in the G7 for investment and job creation.

## **Conclusion: Building a Resilient Economy**

Succession Ontario is designed to safeguard jobs, bolster local communities, and foster a more resilient economy throughout the region.

## **Quick Facts**

– Only **10%** of small business owners in Canada currently have a formal succession plan.
– Over **500,000** small businesses operate in Ontario, making up approximately **98%** of all businesses and employing close to **2.5 million** people.
– SBECs offer crucial advisory services and training programs aimed at helping entrepreneurs launch and expand their business ventures.
– In the fiscal year **2024-25**, Ontario’s **54 SBEC locations** have contributed to the creation and expansion of over **15,800 jobs**.
– The inception of Succession Ontario was first highlighted in the **2025 Budget**, titled *A Plan to Protect Ontario*.

## **Additional Resources**

### **About the Cornwall SDG Business Enterprise Centre**

The Cornwall SDG Business Enterprise Centre is dedicated to empowering small business owners and entrepreneurs throughout Cornwall, Stormont, Dundas, Glengarry, and Akwesasne. By offering vital information, tools, and support during the critical startup and growth phases of business operation, the center plays a pivotal role in nurturing local entrepreneurship. This includes administering the Summer Company and Starter Company PLUS programs. The center operates under the auspices of Cornwall Economic Development and receives partial funding from the Government of Ontario.

The Cornwall SDG Business Enterprise Centre can be found at:
**100 Water Street East (Cornwall Civic Complex)**

## **Leveraging AI legalese decoder**

For entrepreneurs navigating the complexities of business succession planning, utilizing tools like the **AI legalese decoder** can provide significant advantages. This application assists in simplifying legal jargon, making critical documents and contracts easier to understand. As business owners engage with Succession Ontario’s resources, they can employ AI legalese decoder to ensure they fully comprehend legal obligations, streamline communication, and bolster their strategic planning efforts. Embracing such technology empowers them to make informed decisions, leading to more successful transitions and promoting long-term sustainability.

Categorised in: Business, Community, General, News