For decades, the dream was simple: go to school, get a good job, climb the corporate ladder.

But that path is changing.

Today, a growing number of young Canadians are skipping startups and corporate careers entirely—and choosing a different route:

Buying an existing business.

Welcome to the rise of Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA)—and the surprising appeal of so-called “boring businesses.”

What’s Changed in the Business Buying Landscape?

According to Stephen Boughton, a business intermediary with Chinook Business Advisory, the shift is undeniable:

Young people are increasingly interested in acquiring businesses instead of starting them from scratch.

Why?

Because starting a business is risky. Really risky.

Buying one, on the other hand, offers:

• Proven revenue
• Established customers
• Existing operations
• Immediate cash flow potential

Instead of guessing whether an idea will work, buyers can step into a business that’s already been running successfully for 10, 20, even 30 years.

What Is a “Boring Business”?

Despite the name, boring businesses are anything but dull—at least financially.

These are businesses that:

• Provide essential services
• Have predictable revenue
• Operate consistently month-to-month
• Aren’t driven by trends or hype

Examples of “Boring Businesses”

• HVAC companies (heating & air conditioning)
• Fire safety inspection services
• Water delivery businesses
• Laundromats
• Senior care services

As Boughton explains, boring businesses are attractive because they’re predictable:

If revenue is steady and operations are consistent, that’s usually a good thing.

In other words: Boring = stable = investable

Why Young Buyers Are Flocking to These Businesses

There are three major drivers behind this trend:

1. A New Career Alternative

Instead of:

• Climbing the corporate ladder
• Working government jobs

Young professionals are choosing ownership.

Buying a business gives them:

• Control over their future
• Direct impact on growth
• Upside potential if they improve operations

2. The Influence of Social Media

Platforms like Twitter/X and Instagram have popularized the idea of:

• “Buying boring businesses”
• Escaping the 9–5
• Building wealth through acquisitions

But there’s a catch…

The idea that you can buy a business with no money down and get rich quickly is often unrealistic.

The reality?

Owning a business is often:

• More work than a job
• Higher stress
• Full responsibility for success and failure

3. Technology Advantage

Younger buyers often see opportunities that older owners missed.

For example:

• Digitizing operations
• Automating scheduling and invoicing
• Improving marketing
• Streamlining workflows

In some cases, these improvements can triple or quadruple revenue over time.

Real Example: A “Boring” Business That Sparked a Bidding War

One standout example?

A seniors care business that provided in-home companionship.

What happened:

• Listed at a fair price
• Generated 6 full-price offers in 1.5 weeks
• Attracted buyers of all ages
• Allowed the seller to choose the best-fit buyer

Why so much interest?

Because the business had:

• Recurring revenue
• Growing demand (aging population)
• Room for operational improvements

This is exactly what modern buyers are looking for.

The Reality Check: It’s Not Passive Income

Many buyers enter thinking they’re buying freedom.

But in most cases:

You’re buying yourself a job.

Especially if the business depends heavily on the owner.

Example:

• A bakery run by a master baker
• A trades business built on one person’s expertise

If the owner leaves and nothing changes… the business may struggle.

That’s why smart buyers look for:

• Systems and processes
• Trained staff
• Businesses that can run without the owner

Financing a Business: What You Need to Know

Buying a business isn’t like buying a house.

Key differences:

• Most value = goodwill (not physical assets)
• Banks rely heavily on your ability to run the business
• You’ll likely need:
  • 25–30% down
  • A detailed business plan
  • Personal guarantees

It’s doable—but not easy.

The Biggest Risk Most Buyers Overlook

Businesses aren’t spreadsheets.

They’re made up of:

• Employees
• Customers
• Systems (or lack of them)
• Real-world problems

As Boughton puts it, buyers often underestimate:

• Managing people
• Handling unexpected issues
• Operational complexity

From employees quitting to real-time customer problems…

Why This Trend Is Likely Here to Stay

Two major forces are accelerating this shift:

1. Baby Boomer Retirements

Thousands of business owners are retiring.

But:

• Not all businesses are high quality
• Many depend too heavily on the owner
• Timing affects valuation significantly

2. AI and the Job Market

As AI disrupts white-collar jobs:

• Data analysis roles are being automated
• Corporate jobs are becoming less secure

Meanwhile…

AI can’t:

• Fix plumbing
• Install furnaces
• Inspect fire systems
• Deliver essential services

That makes “boring businesses”:
More future-proof than many traditional careers

Final Thoughts: Is Buying a Business Right for You?

Buying a small business can be:

• A powerful wealth-building tool
• A path to independence
• A way to control your future

But it’s not:

• Easy
• Passive
• Risk-free

The best buyers understand both sides:

• The opportunity
• The responsibility

Key Takeaway

The real opportunity isn’t flashy startups.

It’s in:

• Stable businesses
• Essential services
• Predictable cash flow

Because in business…

The “boring” companies are often the ones that win.

Listen to the full interview: https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-379-cost-of-living/clip/16207002-why-canadians-getting-boring-businesses