TMU’s Family Business Institute offers insights and connections

For TMU alumni who are running or involved in family businesses, the Family Business Institute at the Ted Rogers School of Management offers more than research and programming — it provides a network, practical insights and a place to share experience. Since its launch, the institute has helped family enterprises grow, thrive and prepare for the next generation.

The institute strengthens family enterprises through evidence-based research, practical learning opportunities, and programs that connect business leaders and students. For Janie Goldstein, advisor to the institute, the work is about more than programming.

“The institute’s three pillars — research, innovative student education and community engagement — create a holistic approach to creating impact in the family business ecosystem,” Goldstein said. “2025 was a pivotal year that exceeded expectations; in 2026, we’re focused on scaling that momentum and focusing on community impact.”

Connect with peers and experts

TMU alumnus Steve Beauchesne, Business Management ’99, is co-founder of Beau’s All Natural, a family-run craft brewery acquired by Steam Whistle in 2022. Since 2024, Beauchesne has served as CEO of Family Enterprise Canada and the Family Enterprise Foundation, where he advocates for the sustainability and growth of family businesses across Canada. 

Reflecting on his experience in a family enterprise, Beauchesne points to the value of peer connection and trusted advice.

“When you are running a family business, it is difficult to find people to confide in, as the relationships with co-workers and family members are commingled,” he said. “Having the ability to talk to people who have gone through similar issues or helped others navigate them is incredibly valuable.”

The institute hosts panels, webinars and networking events that bring together business owners, industry leaders and advisers. Topics range from succession planning to women in family business, providing opportunities to exchange ideas and learn from peers navigating similar challenges. Many of these events are offered in partnership with Family Enterprise Canada, allowing participants to connect with business professionals, other family business leaders and current students, fostering meaningful conversations grounded in evidence and real-world experience.

Insights from research

Research is central to the institute’s mission, helping family businesses navigate challenges and plan for the future. Through initiatives like the Pulse of the GTA study and the Next-Gen Survey, the institute gathers perspectives from family business leaders and next generation members, helping inform discussions with research-based insights.

Dr. Francesco Barbera, academic director of the Family Business Institute, underscores the value of this research.

“We aim to turn rigorous research into real decisions,” Barbera said. “From 700+ owner interviews to 900+ next gen voices, plus ongoing academic studies, we’re translating evidence into practical guidance that strengthens succession, governance and long term continuity for business families.”

For Beauchesne, the growing focus on research reflects a broader shift in how family enterprises navigate change.

“Despite the fact that family businesses have existed for centuries, research and education that looks specifically at the unique challenges of families in business together is quite new,” he said.

“When you couple that with the fact that there are so many game-changing global and technological changes — the need for robust research in this field becomes quite clear.”