Firefly Insights Founder Jennifer Williams was recently a guest on The Cash-Rich Exit Podcast, hosted by Colleen O’Connell-Campbell of RBC Dominion Securities, where she discussed Employee Ownership Transitions.
In this three-part series, they explore employee ownership as a powerful exit strategy for business owners — offering an alternative to selling to competitors or private equity firms. Learn how selling your business to employees can help preserve your company’s values, legacy, and community roots, while supporting long-term succession planning.
In Episode 1, Jennifer and Colleen cover:
• Why employee ownership is rising in Canada
• How it compares to family succession
• What governance really looks like
• The emotional side of letting go
In Episode 2, they dive into the financial side of Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs), including:
• Why the federal government introduced EOTs in Canada
• How the $10M capital gains exemption works (vs. the regular $1.25M)
• What kinds of business owners should explore this option now
• Why most accountants and lawyers do not yet understand EOTs
• The risks of trying to “DIY” this kind of exit
• How EOTs help employees grow their personal wealth
• The role of wealth distribution in a healthy society
🎧 Listen to both episodes below: