Step 1: Fill out your interest form.
With a cohort limited to 25 participants, we recommend applying early to secure your spot.
Deadline: January 24, 2025
What's in it for you?
25+ Expert Instructors
Learn from the best—experienced lawyers, investors, brokers, bankers, and seasoned business owners. They'll provide practical insights and guidance through every step of your journey, using firsthand knowledge to enhance your learning experience.
40-Hour Learning Journey
Boost your confidence at every phase of the acquisition process, from spotting the right opportunity to taking ownership. Our weekly evening Zoom sessions are tailored to fit your schedule, complemented by two in-person sessions that deepen your understanding and connections.
A Community for Life
You’re not alone—start and end your journey with in-person sessions where you can connect with your cohort, share a meal, and attend workshops, panels, and keynotes with peers and mentors.
Instructed by insiders.
Leaders who've earned their lessons the hard way.
Top mentorship experts from Canada's ETA ecosystem including seasoned lawyers, investors, bankers, brokers and business buyers who've been in your shoes.
FAQs
How much does it cost?
For our inaugural cohort, the course costs $1200 CAD. This special rate includes everything—from designing a hands-on curriculum to covering in-person sessions with meals and dedicated support throughout. The price will increase for future cohorts, so it’s a great opportunity to join at this introductory rate. Plus, we offer a flexible payment plan to make budgeting easier, with more details shared during the admissions process.
How does this course differ from a general business or entrepreneurship course?
ETA Academy is focused on hands-on, practical learning specifically for buying and running an existing business. You’ll master real-world skills—like crafting Letters of Intent (LOIs), building financial projections, preparing Private Placement Memorandums (PPMs), and analyzing financial statements. Through interactive workshops, you’ll gain confidence in due diligence, funding options, and deal negotiation, while building a supportive network of peers, brokers, bankers, and industry experts to guide you along the way.
How much time should I put aside for the course?
Plan for around 10 hours a week for our virtual learning sessions. Plus, we’ll meet in person twice—on March 22 (9:00 am to 5:00 pm) and April 27 (3:00 pm to 9:00 pm). These sessions are packed with value, including meals, networking opportunities with peers, business owners, bankers, brokers, lawyers, and investors. You’ll also get to attend keynotes, workshops, and panels, all designed to give you hands-on learning and meaningful connections.
What size of companies does the course teach me to buy?
Companies across all sectors that are valued between $2M and $10M.
Do I need to have a background in finance & banking?
Nope, you don’t! We welcome applicants from all professional backgrounds, and we’ll guide you through what you need to know to feel confident.
I’m excited about the idea, but what if I’m not cut out for it? What if I realize I don’t have what it takes?
This is a common fear, and it’s okay to feel uncertain. ETA Academy is designed to build both your knowledge and your confidence, debunking common myths about buying a business—like needing to be wealthy or already knowing everything about running a company. This course will help you decide if entrepreneurship through acquisition fits your skills, lifestyle, and goals, all with a low up-front investment. You’ll walk away with clarity and confidence about whether this path is right for you, without the risk of jumping in prematurely.
What if I don’t have 4+ years of work experience?
That’s okay! While we recommend this course for those with a minimum of 4 years of experience, we welcome applicants who have less experience but are eager to dive in :) Let us know in your application why you’re a great fit and how this aligns with your skills, goals, and experience.
I’ve taken online courses before but I'm worried about staying on track...
You’re not alone—many people feel this way, especially with the demands of everyday life. The ETA Academy was built with that in mind. We don’t just hand you a set of videos and call it a day. We kick off with an in-person session to set you up for success, and we close with a graduation day where you’ll reflect on your journey, celebrate progress, and be held accountable to what you’ve learned. With only five weeks of focused, targeted learning, you won’t lose momentum.
Plus, you’ll be supported by a tight-knit community and experienced mentors who are with you every step of the way, keeping you engaged and motivated throughout.
More questions?
Say hi to our team at eta@ventureforcanada.ca đź‘‹