14 Resilient Businesses Scaling New Heights Through WNC Initiative

Mountain BizWorks Empowers Local Entrepreneurs with Business Buyer Accelerator

Update A New Chapter in Business Ownership As Western North Carolina stands on the brink of an unprecedented transfer of business ownership, Mountain BizWorks is stepping up to meet the challenge with its new Business Buyer Accelerator. This innovative eight-week program, set to launch on April 23, 2026, aims to empower qualified entrepreneurs to acquire and succeed in managing established local businesses. With applications closing on March 30, prospective candidates have a unique opportunity to learn how to navigate the complexities of business ownership transitions. The Landscape of Business Succession A significant wave of Baby Boomers is approaching retirement, a demographic shift that could lead to one of the largest generational wealth transfers in history. According to studies, approximately 70% of small businesses do not have formal succession plans in place. This lack of planning leaves many viable local businesses at risk of shutting down or changing hands unexpectedly, potentially destabilizing the local economic landscape. The Business Buyer Accelerator not only addresses the needs of prospective buyers but also helps ensure that essential community businesses can continue to serve their customers and employees post-transition. Real-Life Success Stories The program is tailored for individuals like Merit Kukendall, who is prepared to purchase Custom CNC, a precision machining company in Clyde, from his mentor Chip Singleton. “I feel ready to take the reins,” Kukendall shares. His trajectory from student to owner exemplifies the program's goal: facilitating smooth transitions within the community. Such success stories highlight the importance of experienced support and structured learning for potential buyers, ensuring that they can step into leadership roles with confidence and sustainability. Program Structure and Benefits The curriculum for the Business Buyer Accelerator is modeled after the successful Achievers Network's program in Cincinnati, which has trained over 300 entrepreneurs and facilitated deals worth more than $30 million. Participants will learn critical elements of business acquisition, including financial analysis, deal structuring, and transition planning. By providing the knowledge and tools necessary for success, the program aims to transform the minds of future business owners who might not have previously considered acquisition as a viable avenue for entrepreneurship. Building a Thriving Local Economy As Mountain BizWorks continues to promote the significance of ownership transitions alongside new startups, the region’s small business environment stands to benefit significantly. “When people approach business ownership, they often only think of starting from scratch,” notes Matt Raker, Executive Director of Mountain BizWorks. “Championing transitions is equally vital for a healthy local economy.” This perspective reflects a holistic approach to entrepreneurship, recognizing that stable ownership transitions can enhance community resilience and economic development. Why This Matters Now The initiative is launching at a critical juncture for small businesses in Western North Carolina. The support from organizations like JPMorganChase, Wells Fargo, and Dogwood Health Trust, which enables the program to be offered at no cost, exemplifies a collaborative effort to preserve community businesses and foster new ownership. The Business Buyer Accelerator represents hope for many, as it aims to prepare a new generation of owners to not only take over but also innovate existing businesses to meet today’s market demands. Final Thoughts As the deadline for applications approaches, prospective business buyers are encouraged to seize the opportunity to be part of this transformative program. By equipping them with vital knowledge and strategies to successfully navigate their business acquisition journeys, Mountain BizWorks is strengthening the backbone of the community—its local businesses. Don’t miss the chance to be part of a brighter future for entrepreneurship in Western North Carolina.