Get to know CFFB

Our mission

The Centre for Family Business is dedicated to supporting and strengthening family-owned businesses across Ontario by creating meaningful connections, sharing knowledge, and fostering a strong sense of community. We bring together family business owners, advisors, and industry leaders through educational events, workshops, and networking opportunities designed to address the unique challenges that come with running a family enterprise. Our goal is to provide a trusted space where family businesses can learn from one another, grow together, and build lasting relationships that extend beyond the boardroom.

Our vision

We envision a thriving community where family businesses are recognized as the backbone of our local economy and are equipped with the tools, resources, and network they need to succeed across generations. At CFFB, we believe that when family businesses flourish, entire communities benefit — creating jobs, driving innovation, and preserving the values that make each business unique. Our vision is to be the leading resource and community for family businesses in Ontario, empowering them to navigate change, embrace opportunity, and build a lasting legacy for the future.

The origins of The Centre For Family Business began with discussions between Milo Shantz, Peter Hallman and John Fast, the first Executive Director of The Centre at a restaurant in St. Jacobs in 1997. Milo voiced his concern for all local family businesses with regard to succession planning. Are these family businesses ready? Who or what organizations were available to provide guidance and advice?

This group then thought about engaging a family business expert to address a gathering of local family business owner/operators. The message was distributed through the Mennonite churches to find out if there would be any interest.

This first meeting was held at Conrad Grebel University College. John Ward was the guest speaker. He provided an excellent and timely presentation. After the speaker, John Fast asked for a show of hands to indicate how many people might be interested in forming some type of organization to deal with family business issues.

From these very humble beginnings, the Centre for Family Business has grown to approximately 65 family business members today. The Centre continues to provide relevant educational programs as well as opportunities to network with other family businesses. Member achievements and milestones are honoured annually at the year-end Gala.

The Board of the Centre for Family Business continues to work diligently to fulfill its mission of Supporting, Educating and Energizing family businesses.

Our Board Members

Our strength lies in the diversity of experience our board members bring. Guided by a shared passion for family business, they represent a wide range of industries and expertise — united by a commitment to helping family enterprises thrive across Ontario.

Justin Caldwell

President

Caldwell Group

Scott Wagler

Director / Sponsorship Committee

Josslin Insurance

Sherry Hempel

Treasurer / Program & Events Committee

PwC

Christie Johnson

Director / Program & Events Committee

Little Mushroom Catering

Sheila Hannon

Director / Membership Committee

System Plus

Michael Kirby

Past President

Altruck International

Your Partner in Family Enterprise

Reach out to the Centre for Family Business team for membership inquiries, event details, or general questions. We're here to support your family's legacy.