

Buying a Business: The Entrepreneurial Path of Acquisition
What does it really take to become an entrepreneur by acquiring an existing business?
For our October Idea Jam, we're welcoming Jean Donald Georges, an engineer by training and former Hydro-Québec professional who is now co-owner and CEO of Maxi Vent Distribution, a Québec-based HVAC equipment distributor.
Jean will share his experience making the leap into entrepreneurship through business acquisition. We'll discuss how to evaluate an opportunity, finance a deal, take over an established business, manage a team, and navigate the challenges of growth.
We'll also get into the realities that don't always make it into the success stories, from cash flow and difficult decisions to mistakes and lessons learned along the way.
What we'll discuss
Moving from a professional career into entrepreneurship
Buying an existing business versus starting from scratch
Financing an acquisition and understanding the risks
Managing people and growing an established SME
Business succession opportunities in Québec
What to expect
As always, this will be an open discussion rather than a formal presentation. Bring your questions, share your perspective, and learn from someone who has been through the process.
Whether you're considering entrepreneurship, exploring business acquisition, or already running a business, you're welcome to join us and bring a friend along!