ONTARIO NEWS RELEASE: Ontario Investing Nearly $2 Million to Help Entrepreneurs Plan for the Future

Delivered by the Kingston Economic Development Corporation (KEDCO), Succession Ontario is an online hub that provides tools and resources to help business owners understand the requirements for selling and exiting their business. To further support the planning process, Small Business Enterprise Centres (SBECs) located across the province will receive training and resources to acquire the knowledge and skills they need to deliver one-on-one advisory services in their local communities.

“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,” said Nina Tangri, Associate Minister of Small Business. “As many business owners prepare to retire over the next decade, our government is helping them plan for the future, so their business can continue to thrive under new leadership.”

First announced in the 2025 Budget, A Plan to Protect Ontario, Succession Ontario demonstrates how the province’s support for small businesses is helping strengthen local economies, create jobs, drive long-term economic growth and keep Ontario competitive and resilient.

“Ensuring that businesses and the jobs that they create stay in our local communities is a top economic priority,” said Donna Gillespie, CEO of the Kingston Economic Development Corporation. “We’re proud to partner with the province and our network of 54 Small Business Enterprise Centres to deliver the training and tools entrepreneurs need to plan for the future and protect Ontario’s economy.”

With U.S. tariffs impacting workers and businesses across key sectors, the Ontario government continues to take decisive action to protect Ontario by lowering taxes, cutting red tape and duplicative processes, and making strategic investments. By helping small businesses succeed, Ontario will unleash its economic potential and make the province’s economy the most competitive place in the G7 to invest, create jobs and do business.