Community Futures Alberta — ExitNavigator

For many rural Alberta business owners, planning what comes next can feel just as complex as building the company in the first place. Whether you’re thinking about retirement, passing the business to family or staff, or selling to a new owner, having the right guidance can make the difference between a smooth transition and a missed opportunity. Community Futures Alberta — ExitNavigator was created to help businesses navigate these ownership and operational changes with clarity and confidence.

Delivered by Community Futures Alberta in partnership with VentureConnect, ExitNavigator focuses on small and medium-sized businesses located outside the Calgary and Edmonton regions. The program connects owners and prospective buyers with practical, hands-on support, including one-on-one business consultations, professional valuations, and mediation services to help manage complex discussions between parties. In addition to advisory support, businesses may also gain access to repayable financing through business loans, with funding levels varying based on the project and transition needs.

ExitNavigator is well suited for established rural businesses that are viable and community-focused, but may not have a formal succession or exit plan in place. By supporting both sellers and buyers, the program helps ensure local businesses can continue operating, preserving jobs and services in rural communities across Alberta. For business owners considering their next chapter, learning more about how ExitNavigator works could be a valuable first step toward a successful transition.