Axe ’Em, Jacks!
Investing in the future of East Texas through entrepreneurial succession
A strategic initiative from the Arnold Center for Entrepreneurship, SFA's Purple Spikes program is a free community resource designed to preserve the vitality of East Texas businesses through entrepreneurial succession planning. We help ensure continuity, job preservation and long-term economic growth by connecting graduating students, alumni and qualified entrepreneurs with business acquisition opportunities.
Why it matters:
Approximately 200 businesses in the region are at risk due to a lack of succession planning — representing over 2,000 jobs and millions of lost revenue. Purple Spikes exists to reduce this risk.
Our goal is to support East Texas businesses, retain jobs and foster economic growth in the region. There are no fees for participating, and we welcome contributions from those who wish to support the program's continued success.
Want to sell your business?
Let your business legacy continue and help your community stay strong.
Whether you're planning for retirement or want to exit your business to pursue another venture, the Purple Spikes program is ready to connect you with qualified successors. We're a trusted matchmaker! SFA's network of buyers includes experienced individuals and Lumberjack alumni interested in growing roots in the area, and high-achieving recent graduates motivated and financially prepared to take over operations.
Transition process
Transition process
If you're considering selling your business, complete and submit our business profile form. Once received, your business profile will be reviewed by our team to learn more about your goals, needs and timeline. Like any successful match, we want to ensure the right fit between your business and our available resources.
Accepted businesses:
Within seven business days of reviewing your business profile form, we'll reach out to discuss your goals. Accepted businesses will be featured on our website and we will assist in promoting your opportunity to potential successors.
Want to own a business?
Grow roots by acquiring an East Texas business seeking new leadership.
The Purple Spikes program is here to help match you with vetted businesses whose owners are preparing to retire or transition out of the industry. Our goal is to help turn your ownership aspirations into reality while sustaining the economic heartbeat of our region
If you're a highly qualified Lumberjack, an experienced alum ready to take the next step or an entrepreneur from the broader community with the drive to lead, let's connect.
Ownership Process
If you're considering the purchase of a business, start by completing our business ownership profile form.
Within seven business days of reviewing your submitted form, we'll reach out to discuss your goals. As with any matchmaking, we want to help identify what types of businesses best align with your goals and qualifications, and ensure you're prepared for the undertaking of a business acquisition.