In 2018, St. Regis Canoe Outfitters owners Dave and Rivka Cilley reached out to ANCA and the Saranac Lake Area Chamber of Commerce (SLACC) about a new program designed to help North Country small businesses transition to the next generation of owners. Over the course of five years, ANCA’s Center for Businesses in Transition (CBIT) would help connect the Cilleys with the right buyer, as well as a team of local providers and technical services to support them through the transition process.
In July 2023, the Cilleys passed the paddle to Maeghan Farnham and Steve Cerri — two experienced and dedicated employees who are now bringing
their own flair to business, enhancing the wide array of services and expertise the Canoe Outfitters has provided locals and visitors for 40 years.
“Overall, the people at ANCA helped us form connections that made this process easier,” Maeghan said. “Starting down this path was intimidating, and they provided reassurance that it was possible. I will always be thankful for that support.”
Meaghan and Steve have expanded the outfitters’ services by adding whitewater courses to their canoeing and kayaking instruction, offering wood stove-heated tents for winter outings, and providing outdoor programs for local students and their families. The pair have also taken over Paddlesports Press as part of the business transition and now produce all Paddlesports maps and guidebooks.
From 2019 to 2023, the CBIT has supported over 250 owners preparing for retirement or other life changes and engaged over 120 individuals interested in owning a business in the region. CBIT community liaisons supported successful ownership transitions at 63 North Country businesses during that period — retaining local jobs as well as goods and services that enhance quality of life in their rural communities.
Learn more about the Center for Businesses in Transition, read its Five-Year Case Study and view a current list of available North Country businesses at www.ownanorthcountrybusiness.com.