A business is more than numbers. It represents years of effort, family sacrifice, and community ties. At Deprez Private Wealth Management, we help business owners plan transitions that preserve both value and legacy. For over 30 years, families across Winnipeg and the Interlake have trusted us to guide their business succession planning. Many of our clients are second- or third-generation owners who know the importance of preparing for what comes next.
Preparing For A Private Business Sale
For many, selling the business is a milestone that represents both an ending and a beginning. A private business sale requires careful preparation to maximize value and minimize risk. We help clients review operations, identify opportunities to increase profitability, and position the business to attract the right buyer. By building a business exit strategy that includes tax optimization and clear agreements, we ensure owners leave on strong financial terms.
The Importance Of Business Succession Planning
Succession is about clarity. Without a plan, family businesses risk conflict, loss of value, or missed opportunities. Our business succession planning approach is designed to keep relationships strong and transitions smooth. We look at every angle—ownership structures, tax implications, shareholder agreements—to ensure nothing is left to chance. Whether the goal is keeping the business in the family or preparing for a third-party sale, our guidance provides a clear path forward.
Family Transitions And Legacy
Passing a business to children or relatives can be rewarding, but it is also complex. Expectations, roles, and values must be aligned. We help families create plans that balance fairness with practicality, ensuring transitions support both the new leaders and the retiring owners. Small business succession often requires coordination across generations, and our experience guiding multigenerational clients makes this process smoother.
Creating A Strong Business Exit Strategy
For some, the best option is a complete business exit. That could mean selling to management, a third party, or another investor. We build business exit strategies that are detailed and disciplined, ensuring owners maximize every advantage. From preparing financial statements to navigating the lifetime capital gains exemption, we align the process with the broader financial plan. Our role is to help owners step away with confidence, knowing the value they created will support their future goals.
Protecting Value Through Tax Planning
Business transitions come with significant tax implications. Without planning, taxes can reduce the benefit of years of hard work. We integrate corporate tax strategies, income splitting, and capital gains planning to minimize the impact. This ensures owners keep more of what they have built and pass it on in the most efficient way.
Your Business, Your Legacy
Business succession is about protecting the story you built, the people who supported it, and the community it served. At Deprez Private Wealth, we bring clarity to these moments. Whether through a private business sale, succession to family, or a carefully designed business exit strategy, we ensure every decision aligns with your goals. Our work is grounded in respect, loyalty, and a deep understanding of the families we serve. For business owners across Manitoba, from Selkirk to Stonewall to Gimli, our role is simple: to help you move forward with confidence, protect your legacy, and maximize the value of what you created.