Selling Your Canadian Business

A pre-sale business audit is one of the most critical steps before selling a mid-market business. This podcast unpacks how a comprehensive audit can uncover hidden risks, enhance buyer confidence, and maximize your company’s valuation. From financial readiness and operational efficiency to legal compliance and ESG standards, you’ll learn how to prepare your business for buyer scrutiny and stand out in competitive markets.

We explore real-world examples of Canadian mid-market firms across SaaS and e-commerce, manufacturing, and logistics that successfully boosted their valuations through strategic pre-sale audits. You’ll discover how addressing tax discrepancies, solidifying management structures, and resolving compliance issues can turn potential deal-breakers into opportunities for value creation.

This episode also covers modern tools that streamline audits, including AI-driven financial platforms and ESG software, empowering business owners to complete their audit faster and with greater accuracy. Whether you’re planning a domestic sale or a cross-border deal, this guide helps you strengthen every area of your business before entering the negotiation table.

Explore more insights, guides, and resources at www.Shaughnessy.Group

You're listening to The Shaughnessy Group Podcast—insights on buying, selling, and growing Canadian businesses in the lower-middle market.
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This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not professional advice. Consult qualified advisors for your specific situation.

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Important Notice: These podcast notes are unofficial summaries created for personal reference and educational purposes only. They are not intended as a verbatim transcript, official record, or endorsement by the podcast hosts, guests, or producers of Shaughnessy Group. 

While every effort has been made to capture key insights, quotes, and discussions accurately, errors, omissions, or interpretations may occur due to the subjective nature of summarization. Listeners are strongly encouraged to refer to the original episode for full context, nuances, and original audio.

No Advice Provided: The content discussed in Shaughnessy Group episodes, including these notes, does not constitute professional, financial, legal, medical, or investment advice. Any ideas, strategies, or opinions shared by guests are their own and should not be relied upon without independent verification and consultation with qualified professionals.

Copyright & Usage: All rights reserved. These notes are derived from publicly available podcast episodes and are shared under fair use principles for non-commercial, transformative purposes. Reproduction, distribution, or commercial use without permission from the podcast creators is prohibited.

For questions or permissions, contact the Shaughnessy team directly. Enjoy the learning, but always do your due diligence!

Building the right advisory team is the foundation of a successful mid-market business sale. In this episode, you’ll learn how to assemble experts who bring deep experience in M&A, legal, tax, and financial strategy, each playing a key role in navigating the complex process of selling a $5M–$50M Canadian business. Whether your goal is to maximize valuation, reduce risk, or manage cross-border transactions, this discussion breaks down exactly which kind of advisors you need and why their expertise matters.

We’ll explore the roles of M&A intermediaries, lawyers, accountants, tax advisors, and Quality of Earnings providers, sharing how their combined insights can uncover hidden value and ensure compliance across jurisdictions. Real-world examples, from SaaS firms securing private equity buyers to manufacturers closing deals with European investors, show how a strong advisory team drives both efficiency and profitability throughout the sale process.

You’ll also get practical steps to start building your own team, including an Advisor Hiring Checklist to help evaluate the right professionals for your industry and deal size. Whether you’re planning a cross-border exit or preparing your first mid-market sale, this episode equips you with the clarity and confidence to make informed decisions that protect and grow your business’s value.

Explore more insights, guides, and resources at www.Shaughnessy.Group

You're listening to The Shaughnessy Group Podcast—insights on buying, selling, and growing Canadian businesses in the lower-middle market.
Let's begin.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not professional advice. Consult qualified advisors for your specific situation.

Support the show

Important Notice: These podcast notes are unofficial summaries created for personal reference and educational purposes only. They are not intended as a verbatim transcript, official record, or endorsement by the podcast hosts, guests, or producers of Shaughnessy Group. 

While every effort has been made to capture key insights, quotes, and discussions accurately, errors, omissions, or interpretations may occur due to the subjective nature of summarization. Listeners are strongly encouraged to refer to the original episode for full context, nuances, and original audio.

No Advice Provided: The content discussed in Shaughnessy Group episodes, including these notes, does not constitute professional, financial, legal, medical, or investment advice. Any ideas, strategies, or opinions shared by guests are their own and should not be relied upon without independent verification and consultation with qualified professionals.

Copyright & Usage: All rights reserved. These notes are derived from publicly available podcast episodes and are shared under fair use principles for non-commercial, transformative purposes. Reproduction, distribution, or commercial use without permission from the podcast creators is prohibited.

For questions or permissions, contact the Shaughnessy team directly. Enjoy the learning, but always do your due diligence!

Understanding business valuation is essential for Canadian entrepreneurs preparing to buy or sell a company. This podcast unpacks the key terms enterprise value, equity value, and selling price, so you can make confident, informed decisions. Listeners will gain clarity on how these valuation metrics shape negotiations, influence deal structures, and ultimately impact the financial outcome of a business transaction in Canada’s dynamic market.

Through real-world examples and practical explanations, you’ll learn how enterprise value captures the total worth of your business, how equity value reflects what truly belongs to you after debts, and how the final selling price is determined through strategic discussions. The podcast highlights why understanding these differences matters for both buyers and sellers, and how each term affects your position at the negotiating table.

Whether you’re planning to sell a long-standing family business or invest in a promising startup, this episode will help you navigate valuations with confidence. Gain the insights you need to understand your company’s true worth, align expectations, and make smarter financial decisions. Explore more insights, guides, and resources at www.Shaughnessy.Group

You're listening to The Shaughnessy Group Podcast—insights on buying, selling, and growing Canadian businesses in the lower-middle market.
Let's begin.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not professional advice. Consult qualified advisors for your specific situation.

Support the show

Important Notice: These podcast notes are unofficial summaries created for personal reference and educational purposes only. They are not intended as a verbatim transcript, official record, or endorsement by the podcast hosts, guests, or producers of Shaughnessy Group. 

While every effort has been made to capture key insights, quotes, and discussions accurately, errors, omissions, or interpretations may occur due to the subjective nature of summarization. Listeners are strongly encouraged to refer to the original episode for full context, nuances, and original audio.

No Advice Provided: The content discussed in Shaughnessy Group episodes, including these notes, does not constitute professional, financial, legal, medical, or investment advice. Any ideas, strategies, or opinions shared by guests are their own and should not be relied upon without independent verification and consultation with qualified professionals.

Copyright & Usage: All rights reserved. These notes are derived from publicly available podcast episodes and are shared under fair use principles for non-commercial, transformative purposes. Reproduction, distribution, or commercial use without permission from the podcast creators is prohibited.

For questions or permissions, contact the Shaughnessy team directly. Enjoy the learning, but always do your due diligence!

In this episode, we explore the key valuation trends shaping the Canadian private business landscape in 2025. Whether you’re preparing to sell, seeking investors, or simply assessing your company’s worth, understanding how market conditions, profit margins, and deal structures are evolving can give you a strategic edge. You’ll learn what factors are driving recovery in valuation multiples and why timing and performance matter more than ever for achieving strong results.

We also dive into how industry differences, business size, and changing buyer preferences are influencing company valuations. From scaling your operations to aligning with sector benchmarks, this discussion highlights the insights every entrepreneur needs to make informed decisions about their next steps.

Packed with actionable advice and grounded in current market data, this episode helps Canadian business owners plan with clarity and confidence in a shifting economic environment. Explore more insights, guides, and resources at www.Shaughnessy.Group

You're listening to The Shaughnessy Group Podcast—insights on buying, selling, and growing Canadian businesses in the lower-middle market.
Let's begin.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not professional advice. Consult qualified advisors for your specific situation.

Support the show

Important Notice: These podcast notes are unofficial summaries created for personal reference and educational purposes only. They are not intended as a verbatim transcript, official record, or endorsement by the podcast hosts, guests, or producers of Shaughnessy Group. 

While every effort has been made to capture key insights, quotes, and discussions accurately, errors, omissions, or interpretations may occur due to the subjective nature of summarization. Listeners are strongly encouraged to refer to the original episode for full context, nuances, and original audio.

No Advice Provided: The content discussed in Shaughnessy Group episodes, including these notes, does not constitute professional, financial, legal, medical, or investment advice. Any ideas, strategies, or opinions shared by guests are their own and should not be relied upon without independent verification and consultation with qualified professionals.

Copyright & Usage: All rights reserved. These notes are derived from publicly available podcast episodes and are shared under fair use principles for non-commercial, transformative purposes. Reproduction, distribution, or commercial use without permission from the podcast creators is prohibited.

For questions or permissions, contact the Shaughnessy team directly. Enjoy the learning, but always do your due diligence!

Canada’s lower-middle-market M&A scene is more active than ever, with a transaction closing nearly every day across the country. This podcast explores how that pace of activity, driven by companies earning $10 million to $50 million in revenue, reflects a healthy, resilient market. Listeners will gain a clear understanding of what’s fueling this growth, from steady deal flow and strong valuations to global investor interest, and why it matters for Canadian business owners.

Each episode dives into the real data behind the numbers, breaking down sector trends, valuation multiples, and the professionals guiding these transactions. Whether you’re an entrepreneur considering an exit, an acquirer exploring opportunities, or an advisor helping clients navigate M&A complexity, you’ll learn how these daily deals are shaping strategy and value creation across industries such as cannabis, technology, transportation, and healthcare.

Join us as we examine what this momentum means for timing, valuations, and strategic growth in the evolving Canadian market. Discover how expert insight and careful planning can help businesses seize opportunities in one of the most active M&A environments to date. Explore more insights, guides, and resources at www.Shaughnessy.Group

You're listening to The Shaughnessy Group Podcast—insights on buying, selling, and growing Canadian businesses in the lower-middle market.
Let's begin.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not professional advice. Consult qualified advisors for your specific situation.

Support the show

Important Notice: These podcast notes are unofficial summaries created for personal reference and educational purposes only. They are not intended as a verbatim transcript, official record, or endorsement by the podcast hosts, guests, or producers of Shaughnessy Group. 

While every effort has been made to capture key insights, quotes, and discussions accurately, errors, omissions, or interpretations may occur due to the subjective nature of summarization. Listeners are strongly encouraged to refer to the original episode for full context, nuances, and original audio.

No Advice Provided: The content discussed in Shaughnessy Group episodes, including these notes, does not constitute professional, financial, legal, medical, or investment advice. Any ideas, strategies, or opinions shared by guests are their own and should not be relied upon without independent verification and consultation with qualified professionals.

Copyright & Usage: All rights reserved. These notes are derived from publicly available podcast episodes and are shared under fair use principles for non-commercial, transformative purposes. Reproduction, distribution, or commercial use without permission from the podcast creators is prohibited.

For questions or permissions, contact the Shaughnessy team directly. Enjoy the learning, but always do your due diligence!

Exiting a technology business is one of the most pivotal moments in an entrepreneur’s journey. This podcast explores how Canadian tech founders can navigate the complexities of selling, merging, or transitioning their companies while preserving value and vision. Through practical strategies and real-world examples, listeners will gain a clear understanding of exit options — from strategic and financial buyers to IPOs and management buyouts — and learn how to align their exit plan with their long-term goals.

Listeners will discover how to prepare their businesses for a successful exit by strengthening operations, protecting intellectual property, building strong leadership teams, and understanding valuation trends in Canada’s dynamic tech landscape. The discussion also covers how timing, market conditions, and industry shifts — particularly in AI, SaaS, and cybersecurity — can dramatically influence the outcome of a deal.

Finally, the podcast offers insights into managing due diligence, negotiating fair terms, and addressing common challenges like valuation disputes, buyer engagement, and emotional readiness. Whether you’re preparing to sell in the next year or laying the groundwork for a future transition, this episode provides a roadmap to ensure your exit is strategic, profitable, and smooth.

Explore more insights, guides, and resources at www.Shaughnessy.Group

You're listening to The Shaughnessy Group Podcast—insights on buying, selling, and growing Canadian businesses in the lower-middle market.
Let's begin.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not professional advice. Consult qualified advisors for your specific situation.

Support the show

Important Notice: These podcast notes are unofficial summaries created for personal reference and educational purposes only. They are not intended as a verbatim transcript, official record, or endorsement by the podcast hosts, guests, or producers of Shaughnessy Group. 

While every effort has been made to capture key insights, quotes, and discussions accurately, errors, omissions, or interpretations may occur due to the subjective nature of summarization. Listeners are strongly encouraged to refer to the original episode for full context, nuances, and original audio.

No Advice Provided: The content discussed in Shaughnessy Group episodes, including these notes, does not constitute professional, financial, legal, medical, or investment advice. Any ideas, strategies, or opinions shared by guests are their own and should not be relied upon without independent verification and consultation with qualified professionals.

Copyright & Usage: All rights reserved. These notes are derived from publicly available podcast episodes and are shared under fair use principles for non-commercial, transformative purposes. Reproduction, distribution, or commercial use without permission from the podcast creators is prohibited.

For questions or permissions, contact the Shaughnessy team directly. Enjoy the learning, but always do your due diligence!

This episode explores why every Canadian business owner preparing for a sale needs to adopt a 36-month rolling forecast to maximize business value. Listeners will learn how forward-looking financials play a crucial role in shaping buyer confidence and driving premium valuations. By understanding how projected EBITDA and forward multiples influence modern dealmaking, owners can better position their companies for successful exits.

We break down the advantages of maintaining a continuous 36-month outlook, including how it balances precision with long-term vision. From forecasting revenue and managing costs to anticipating market and regulatory changes, this approach helps owners plan with confidence and adaptability. Whether you’re in manufacturing, technology, or retail, you’ll discover how proactive financial management becomes a competitive edge.

Finally, the episode outlines how disciplined budgeting and consistent forecasting practices build credibility with investors and buyers alike. Through practical examples, we highlight strategies for mitigating risks, optimizing resources, and showcasing growth potential. Learn how Canadian entrepreneurs can strengthen their exit strategy by adopting this forward-focused mindset.

Explore more insights, guides, and resources at www.Shaughnessy.Group

You're listening to The Shaughnessy Group Podcast—insights on buying, selling, and growing Canadian businesses in the lower-middle market.
Let's begin.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not professional advice. Consult qualified advisors for your specific situation.

Support the show

Important Notice: These podcast notes are unofficial summaries created for personal reference and educational purposes only. They are not intended as a verbatim transcript, official record, or endorsement by the podcast hosts, guests, or producers of Shaughnessy Group. 

While every effort has been made to capture key insights, quotes, and discussions accurately, errors, omissions, or interpretations may occur due to the subjective nature of summarization. Listeners are strongly encouraged to refer to the original episode for full context, nuances, and original audio.

No Advice Provided: The content discussed in Shaughnessy Group episodes, including these notes, does not constitute professional, financial, legal, medical, or investment advice. Any ideas, strategies, or opinions shared by guests are their own and should not be relied upon without independent verification and consultation with qualified professionals.

Copyright & Usage: All rights reserved. These notes are derived from publicly available podcast episodes and are shared under fair use principles for non-commercial, transformative purposes. Reproduction, distribution, or commercial use without permission from the podcast creators is prohibited.

For questions or permissions, contact the Shaughnessy team directly. Enjoy the learning, but always do your due diligence!

Canada’s business world is in the midst of a massive transformation as Baby Boomers pass the entrepreneurial torch to Generation X and Millennials. This podcast explores the dynamics behind this historic handover, revealing how tens of thousands of companies and billions in wealth are shifting hands. Listeners will discover the real impact this transition is having on local economies, industries, and innovation across the country.

Each episode dives deep into the data and stories behind this generational shift, uncovering how Gen X and Millennial entrepreneurs are modernizing legacy businesses, driving digital transformation, and building sustainability into Canada’s next chapter of growth. You’ll also hear how immigrant entrepreneurs and policy changes are shaping a more diverse and resilient small business ecosystem.

Whether you’re planning a business exit, looking to acquire, or simply want to understand how this economic evolution will redefine Canadian entrepreneurship, this series offers valuable insights and strategies from across the nation. Explore more insights, guides, and resources at www.Shaughnessy.Group

You're listening to The Shaughnessy Group Podcast—insights on buying, selling, and growing Canadian businesses in the lower-middle market.
Let's begin.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not professional advice. Consult qualified advisors for your specific situation.

Support the show

Important Notice: These podcast notes are unofficial summaries created for personal reference and educational purposes only. They are not intended as a verbatim transcript, official record, or endorsement by the podcast hosts, guests, or producers of Shaughnessy Group. 

While every effort has been made to capture key insights, quotes, and discussions accurately, errors, omissions, or interpretations may occur due to the subjective nature of summarization. Listeners are strongly encouraged to refer to the original episode for full context, nuances, and original audio.

No Advice Provided: The content discussed in Shaughnessy Group episodes, including these notes, does not constitute professional, financial, legal, medical, or investment advice. Any ideas, strategies, or opinions shared by guests are their own and should not be relied upon without independent verification and consultation with qualified professionals.

Copyright & Usage: All rights reserved. These notes are derived from publicly available podcast episodes and are shared under fair use principles for non-commercial, transformative purposes. Reproduction, distribution, or commercial use without permission from the podcast creators is prohibited.

For questions or permissions, contact the Shaughnessy team directly. Enjoy the learning, but always do your due diligence!

When selling a Canadian business valued between $10M and $50M, building the right target list of potential buyers can define the success of the entire process. This podcast breaks down how investment bankers and M&A advisors craft these strategic lists for lower-middle-market business owners. You’ll learn how professionals identify qualified buyers, align outreach with your goals, and ensure confidentiality while maximizing competition to drive higher valuations.

Listeners will gain insights into each step of the target list process — from analyzing your company’s strengths and defining buyer criteria to researching, prioritizing, and vetting buyers who are the best fit for your industry. Whether you run an HR consulting firm, a professional services company, or another specialized business, this episode explains how expert advisors leverage market data, networks, and industry experience to position your company for a successful sale.

If you’re a Canadian business owner preparing for a sale, this episode will help you understand how a data-driven, advisor-led approach can attract serious buyers, streamline negotiations, and protect your business’s legacy. Learn what it takes to make your sales process efficient, competitive, and value-maximizing. Explore more insights, guides, and resources at www.Shaughnessy.Group

You're listening to The Shaughnessy Group Podcast—insights on buying, selling, and growing Canadian businesses in the lower-middle market.
Let's begin.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not professional advice. Consult qualified advisors for your specific situation.

Support the show

Important Notice: These podcast notes are unofficial summaries created for personal reference and educational purposes only. They are not intended as a verbatim transcript, official record, or endorsement by the podcast hosts, guests, or producers of Shaughnessy Group. 

While every effort has been made to capture key insights, quotes, and discussions accurately, errors, omissions, or interpretations may occur due to the subjective nature of summarization. Listeners are strongly encouraged to refer to the original episode for full context, nuances, and original audio.

No Advice Provided: The content discussed in Shaughnessy Group episodes, including these notes, does not constitute professional, financial, legal, medical, or investment advice. Any ideas, strategies, or opinions shared by guests are their own and should not be relied upon without independent verification and consultation with qualified professionals.

Copyright & Usage: All rights reserved. These notes are derived from publicly available podcast episodes and are shared under fair use principles for non-commercial, transformative purposes. Reproduction, distribution, or commercial use without permission from the podcast creators is prohibited.

For questions or permissions, contact the Shaughnessy team directly. Enjoy the learning, but always do your due diligence!

Selling a business is one of the most important transitions an entrepreneur can experience. This podcast explores how Canadian business owners can navigate the sell-side process with confidence, clarity and strategy. Listeners will gain a deep understanding of what it takes to prepare their company for sale, maximize value and preserve their legacy through every stage — from preparation and valuation to negotiation and closing.

Each episode dives into the realities of today’s Canadian market, including the impact of interest rates, digital transformation and evolving buyer expectations. You’ll hear expert insights on how to position your business effectively, attract the right investors and avoid common pitfalls that can derail a deal. Whether you’re considering a full sale, management buyout or partial divestiture, this series offers practical guidance tailored to mid-market entrepreneurs.

Join The Shaughnessy Group as we discuss how to turn your years of dedication into a successful exit and a lasting legacy. Explore more insights, guides, and resources at www.Shaughnessy.Group

You're listening to The Shaughnessy Group Podcast—insights on buying, selling, and growing Canadian businesses in the lower-middle market.
Let's begin.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not professional advice. Consult qualified advisors for your specific situation.

Support the show

Important Notice: These podcast notes are unofficial summaries created for personal reference and educational purposes only. They are not intended as a verbatim transcript, official record, or endorsement by the podcast hosts, guests, or producers of Shaughnessy Group. 

While every effort has been made to capture key insights, quotes, and discussions accurately, errors, omissions, or interpretations may occur due to the subjective nature of summarization. Listeners are strongly encouraged to refer to the original episode for full context, nuances, and original audio.

No Advice Provided: The content discussed in Shaughnessy Group episodes, including these notes, does not constitute professional, financial, legal, medical, or investment advice. Any ideas, strategies, or opinions shared by guests are their own and should not be relied upon without independent verification and consultation with qualified professionals.

Copyright & Usage: All rights reserved. These notes are derived from publicly available podcast episodes and are shared under fair use principles for non-commercial, transformative purposes. Reproduction, distribution, or commercial use without permission from the podcast creators is prohibited.

For questions or permissions, contact the Shaughnessy team directly. Enjoy the learning, but always do your due diligence!