BDCC presents a suite of services, programs, and ecosystem development activities focused on businesses in transition. BDCC Next is the region’s center for quality reorganization and succession training, services, and support. Our business transition-focused programming strategically supports business owners with exit planning processes, supports aspiring entrepreneurs in their journey to take over a business, and provides pathways for sufficient capital and financing options that make it possible for potential buyers to acquire rural businesses. In 2024 BDCC received a Rural Cooperative Development Grant (RCDG) from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) program to expand cooperative business services in Southern Vermont as part of our transition efforts. This initiative will identify businesses at risk of closure or transition and provide targeted technical assistance to avert closures and increase cooperative formation.

Planning for the future of local businesses starts with an exit plan.

Thousands of small business owners throughout New England are planning to retire in the next few years.

The largest avoidable source of job loss is from business closings due to owner retirement.

Only 20% of business owners say they have a plan for what to do with their businesses when they retire.

Only 20% of business listings ever sell.

It can take three to five years to prepare your business to be ready for a successful transition. Even if transitioning seems like a distant consideration,  BDCC can support business owners with an exit planning process, support aspiring entrepreneurs in their journey to take over a business and provide pathways for sufficient capital and financing options that make it possible for potential buyers to acquire rural businesses.