Built to Last

Built to Last is designed for business owners in the Capital Region who are beginning to think about what comes next, whether that's stepping back from day-to-day operations, exploring how an ownership transition might work for them, or understanding what a responsible wind down could look like. The program provides a structured, confidential, neutral, and low-pressure environment to explore options and begin building a plan, before decisions become urgent.

Eligibility Requirements

  • You own an SME in the Capital Region

  • You're thinking about transitioning ownership or stepping back in the next 3–10 years

  • You don't have a formal succession plan in place yet

  • You're ready to start the conversation, even if you're not sure where it leads

What You’ll Learn:

  • The most common business transition pathways and their real-world implications

  • What business and owner readiness actually look like - financially, operationally, and personally

  • How transitions unfold in practice, through regional case studies and perspectives from business owners and practitioners who've been there

  • The early steps that make the biggest difference and the common pitfalls to avoid

  • What support is available and how to find the right people to walk this journey with you

What You’ll Get:

  • A clear picture of your realistic transition options and what they mean for you and your business

  • A personal readiness snapshot and identified next steps tailored to your situation

  • Access to a small, trusted peer group of business owners navigating similar questions

  • Input from regional practitioners and business leaders with real succession experience

  • Follow-up support from Ignite's Business Growth team to help you act on your next steps

Built to Last is facilitated by Fauzia Matyas-Jamal, Economic Development Specialist

Start the conversation about your business’s future