Business owners are encouraged to begin planning now for the future of their companies by participating in the Legacy Planning for Your Business series, an eight-session virtual training program presented by the Maryland Small Business Development Center (SBDC).
The series begins on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, with Session #1: Succession Planning for Your Business, presented by Matt Johnston. The live online session will be held from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m., with registration open through 5:00 p.m. on September 1, 2026.
Designed for business owners who are preparing for retirement, considering the sale of their business, or simply planning for long-term success, the Legacy Planning series provides practical guidance from subject matter experts on the critical aspects of business transition planning. Additional sessions will cover tax consequences of business transitions, exit strategies and mergers and acquisitions, minimizing business risk during transition, business continuity and disaster management, retirement planning, estate planning, and buying and selling a business.
Participants will gain valuable insights into creating a smooth ownership transition while strengthening an important component of their overall business plan—one that is often of interest to lenders and prospective buyers.
The complete eight-session series is available for $79. CLICK HERE to register.
In addition, businesses located in Garrett, Allegany, and Washington counties that successfully complete the virtual series may be eligible to apply for up to $500 in technical assistance funding, subject to committee review and approval. Participants from Maryland's Western Region who attend all eight sessions will also be invited to an exclusive in-person workshop featuring networking opportunities, lunch, and hands-on guidance to help implement succession planning strategies.
The Legacy Planning for Your Business series is presented by the Maryland Small Business Development Center and sponsored by the Tri-County Council for Western Maryland, with support from the Chambers of Commerce of Garrett, Allegany, and Washington counties. Together, these organizations are helping business owners prepare for successful ownership transitions while strengthening the long-term economic vitality of the region.
