en
Canada
Tammy Buss, founder of BlueRoots Inc., has spent decades shaping the landscape of family business advisory services. From her early career in the 1980s, Tammy navigated a male-dominated financial industry, rising above barriers and biases with determination and grit. Today, BlueRoots stands as a testament to her vision—a firm dedicated to helping first-generation family businesses navigate the complexities of succession planning and estate transitions.
Based in Ontario, Canada, BlueRoots specializes in strategic planning for family-run enterprises, offering services that blend financial expertise with a deep understanding of family dynamics. Tammy’s journey to founding BlueRoots was fueled by her own experiences preparing for business transitions. Recognizing the unique challenges her clients faced, Tammy pursued advanced certifications, including the Certified Financial Planner, Family Enterprise Advisor, and Certified Exit Planning Advisor designations. This commitment to continuous learning allowed her to develop a holistic approach to transition planning that prioritizes both financial outcomes and familial harmony.
Overcoming Challenges and Finding Purpose
Tammy’s path to success was not without its hurdles.
“To prove myself at every turn, I quickly realized that I had to work twice as hard to succeed,” she recalls. Delivering exceptional results became her priority, and she often exceeded expectations to demonstrate her capabilities. “In meetings, I made a concerted effort to speak up and assertively present my ideas, ensuring that my voice was heard amidst the dominant narratives.”
Navigating unconscious biases that questioned her competence and commitment as a woman in the financial industry was another challenge. Tammy learned to balance assertiveness with approachability, skillfully overcoming the double standards often placed on women in leadership roles. By seeking out mentors, taking on high-visibility projects, and committing to lifelong learning, Tammy built a reputation as an expert and a leader in her field.
As Tammy progressed in her career, she felt a deep responsibility to advocate for other women in the industry.
“My success not only opened doors for me but also created opportunities for future generations of women,” she says. She championed policies that promote gender equality in the workplace and became a mentor for other women navigating similar challenges. This commitment to lifting others has opened new doors for Tammy, fueling her mission to create lasting impact both within her industry and beyond.
From Skepticism to Transformation
BlueRoots became certified by WEConnect International in 2023 and Tammy quickly discovered the transformative potential of being part of a global network of women-owned businesses.
“The organization opened doors to thousands of like-minded entrepreneurs who understood the unique challenges of being a woman business owner,” she says. “This network provided not just support, but also opportunities I never imagined possible.”
In 2024, Tammy attended WEConnect International Day in Denver and the WBENC National Conference. Both events proved pivotal. At the WBENC expo, Tammy’s booth became a hub of activity, with attendees eager to learn about BlueRoots’ services. The event not only brought in new clients but also created opportunities to expand BlueRoots’ global footprint through speaking engagements and new partnerships.
A New Approach to Networking
Through these experiences, Tammy developed a fresh perspective on networking.
“It’s not just about social interactions,” she says. “it’s about finding ways to work together, propel each other forward, and make introductions that can help grow our businesses.”
The connections Tammy forged through WEConnect International have shown her that distance is no barrier when it comes to making meaningful contributions. “For anyone considering joining these networks, the support, opportunities, and connections you’ll gain are invaluable,” she says. Tammy’s approach emphasizes collaboration and mutual growth, transforming networking into a catalyst for personal and professional success.
Global Vision for Family Businesses
Looking ahead, BlueRoots plans to expand its services internationally through a webinar-based system designed to reach family businesses worldwide. This digital platform will leverage Tammy’s expertise to address the universal challenges of succession and estate planning.
Tammy is also hosting a podcast called The Business of Family, which explores the difficulties of owning a family business and helps listeners plan for the future of their businesses and its succession. (And she is looking for women who own a family business to share their story — reach out to Tammy at info@blueroots.ca.)
Tammy credits WEConnect International for playing a pivotal role in helping her realize these ambitious goals.
“The connections and resources provided by WEConnect International have not only expanded my professional network but also enhanced my ability to make a meaningful impact in the field of family business transitions,” she says.
With the support of a like-minded community, BlueRoots is poised to make a global impact.
Learn more about BlueRoots at blueroots.ca