Social Enterprise Through Acquisition (SETA)
Leveraging social succession to strengthen rural communities
SETA is a flagship initiative of the Social Innovation Lab that supports community organizations to acquire existing businesses, preserve essential services, and strengthen financial resilience across rural Newfoundland and Labrador.
The Dual Challenges Facing Rural NL
Rural communities in Newfoundland and Labrador are experiencing two major, intersecting challenges that threaten long-term community wellbeing and economic stability.
Succession Tsunami
55% of NL small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are projected to exit within five years.
Many owners are aging without a succession plan.
Without transition support, communities risk losing essential services, employment, and economic activity.
Solution: Community-driven business succession.
Community Sector Financial Sustainability
Declining donations and fundraising revenues
Increased demand for community services
Rising operational costs and limited public-sector funding
Solution: Revenue diversification through business acquisition
What Is SETA?
SETA helps community organizations and local businesses transition ownership in ways that preserve essential services and strengthen rural communities.
Empowering Community Organizations
SETA encourages community sector organizations—also known as social purpose organizations (SPOs) — to acquire existing businesses, diversify revenue, and build long-term financial sustainability.
Supporting Business Owners
SETA supports business owners prepare for succession by connecting them with mission-aligned community buyers committed to keeping services local and preserving their legacy.
Promoting Shared Ownership
SETA, led by the NL Federation of Co-operatives, facilitates the formation of co-operatives to sustain local supply chains and essential services through community ownership
Why SETA?
Preserve essential community services, maintain and grow employment, strengthen financial resilience, and support co-operative and social enterprise models.
How SETA Works
SETA connects community organizations interested in acquiring a business (buyers) with business owners preparing for succession (sellers). Through a guided process, SETA supports both sides to ensure a successful, community-focused transition.
Funding Available Through SETA
SETA provides financial support to help organizations successfully navigate the acquisition process.
Social Acquisitions Supported by SETA
SETA is supporting real transitions that preserve vital services and strengthen local economies. Explore two examples of community-led acquisitions supported through SETA:
Progress To Date
Since launching, SETA has built strong momentum and engagement across rural Newfoundland and Labrador.
How to Get Involved
We welcome interest from community organizations exploring business acquisition, and from business owners seeking mission-aligned succession.
Expression of Interest as a Buyer
For community organizations, co-operatives, non-profits, charities, and social enterprises exploring the acquisition of an existing business.
Expression of Interest as a Seller
For business owners considering retirement or selling their business while ensuring continuity of service in their community.
*Due to the rural focus of the program, organizations acquiring a business in the Metro region are not eligible for program funding.
National Recognition & Spotlight Features
SETA continues to gain national attention for its innovative approach to rural business succession and community resilience.
In 2025, CSCNL’s Social Innovation Lab presented the SETA model on the national stage at the State of Canada’s Cities Summit, hosted by the Canadian Urban Institute.
SETA was also highlighted as a Spotlighted Solution in CUI’s new national report Learning From What Works: Leveraging Local Solutions to Make Better Places.
🏛️ Featured at the State of Canada’s Cities Summit
A proud moment showcasing SETA as a leading example of community-led succession and rural innovation.
📘 Spotlighted in “Learning From What Works” (2025)
The SETA program was nationally recognized as a key solution supporting small business resilience across communities.
Our Partners
SETA is made possible through collaboration with local, regional, and national partners:
Contact Us
Andre LeBlanc
Senior Associate, Social Ventures
andre@cscnl.ca
For general inquiries:
socialinnovationlab@cscnl.ca
