The Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership (SLEP) is hosting a Legacy & Leadership Summit to help local businesses prepare for the future. The event will bring together community leaders and experts to discuss key strategies for growth and long-term planning.
The Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership (SLEP) is hosting a Legacy & Leadership Summit on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, to help local businesses plan for the future. The event, held at the Four Points by Sheraton in Point Edward, is part of Business Week and will bring together business owners, industry experts, and community leaders for a half-day of discussions on growth, resilience, and long-term planning.
The summit will feature Emily Branton, founder of Boss & Buddha, as the keynote speaker. Drawing on her experience starting and selling two high-growth companies, Branton will share strategies for navigating major business changes, including leadership transitions and acquisitions. Her talk will focus on the emotional and practical aspects of protecting a business's legacy.
Following the keynote, a Strategic Growth Panel will provide further expertise. Moderated by Branton and SLEP's Economic Development Officer Chantelle Core, the panel will include representatives from Great Lakes Law, the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development, and the Ontario Centre of Innovation, among others. The program also includes sessions on preserving a business legacy, strengthening local economies through employee ownership, and business growth support from the Business Development Bank of Canada.
According to SLEP CEO Matthew Slotwinski, the event is a direct response to feedback from local business owners about their priorities and challenges. "Strong businesses make strong communities," he said, emphasizing that planning for the future is essential for the Sarnia-Lambton economy. The summit will provide owners with the tools and connections to help their businesses today while also positioning them for expansion, leadership changes, or new ownership tomorrow.
Chantelle Core highlighted the growing interest in long-term strategy and succession planning. She noted that more people are looking to buy businesses and that employees are exploring opportunities to transition into ownership. "Planning and being aware of the options available is critical to sustaining our business base," Core stated.
Sponsored by Coldwell Banker Southwest Realty, the summit runs from 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and includes a networking breakfast. Registration is free. To register or get more information, visit the SLEP website.
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