Prosperity

Family business and its unique characteristics is an area that has received relatively little research. Existing research needs to be augmented to assist families and professionals in dealing with issues facing family businesses. We have professors dealing in Family Business at Dalhousie and we would like to continue to develop our strength in this area to allow us to look at the particular characteristics of business in Atlantic Canada and enhance existing research.

Each year since its inception, Dalhousie's Centre for Family Business and Regional Prosperity selects a family to be honoured at its Family Legacy Series Gala Dinner. Featuring an intimate discussion between the Dean of the Faculty of Management and a prominent Canadian business family, this event showcases real-life examples of creativity, knowledge and effort successfully transferred to the next generation, creating a legacy model for family enterprises. It offers a unique opportunity for the business family community to learn, socialize, and celebrate with business family luminaries.

Best research to date suggests that formal corporate boards, advisory boards, or at least individual mentors or coaches can serve a meaningful role in terms of family succession and wealth management. The Centre will assist families in connecting with these individuals who have been educated on family dynamics and good governance practices.

Link to business professional staff list

Dalhousie University's Centre for Family Business and Regional Prosperity is dedicated to the support and promotion of family businesses and their extraordinary contribution to the economy of Atlantic Canada. Our region's long tradition of thriving family enterprises is part of a national trend whereby over 80% of Canada's firms are owned by business families. Family businesses contribute time, money and energy to the communities in which they operate and provide a solid economic foundation and create prosperity in many Canadian communities.