Canada is currently undergoing the biggest wave of business succession in the country’s history. At the same time, Canada is facing a sharp decline in business formation and entrepreneurship. Without intervention, these twin trends are poised to weaken the vibrancy of Canada’s economy and damage local economies for the indefinite future.
Social Capital Partners and Venture for Canada made a joint submission to Innovation, Science, and Economic Development Canada (ISED) as part of its work to finalize its mandated 5-year review of the Canadian Small Business Financing Program (CSBFP).
We recommend that the CSBFP should be amended to allow for increased Entrepreneurship through Acquisition (ETA). ETA is a model whereby existing or aspiring entrepreneurs purchase and grow existing small businesses, rather than build them from scratch. This approach plays an important role in facilitating a transition to a new generation of entrepreneurs, keeping wealth in Canadian communities and unleashing local, private sector innovation.
Share with a friend
Related reading
Built to Reach: How institutional accountability shapes the reach of financial systems
Canada needs a greater diversity of accountability in financing institutions to reach all our viable enterprises.
October 1, 2026ReportEconomic policy,Small business,Community Finance
October 1, 2026
How Private Equity Extracts Value From the Economy | The Walrus Talks
SCP Fellow Rachel Wasserman explains how private equity firms are extracting value from Canadian businesses.
September 29, 2026Changing narratives,Economic policy,OpinionIn the media,The Ownership Solution
September 29, 2026
Getting capital into local businesses and communities must be part of Canada’s investment strategy
Getting capital into local businesses and communities must be part of Canada's investment strategy.
September 25, 2026NewsletterAlternative ownership,What we’re exploring,Economic policy,Small business
September 25, 2026



