Hillcore Group
A leading Canadian investment firm with a diverse portfolio in life sciences, real estate, seniors living, financial services, logistics, industrial, forestry, and energy.
Objective
Explore international opportunities, including:
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Industrial technology innovation
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Offshore wind development
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Acquisition of profitable businesses
Also participated in strategic think tanks to support long-term investment planning.
Our Role
Lams & Associates acted as a strategic advisor, supporting:
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Identification of emerging global technologies
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Validation of offshore energy needs for Canada
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Presentation of several qualified acquisition options
Outcome
We delivered actionable insights and a shortlist of strategic opportunities that aligned with Hillcore’s investment vision—positioning them for global expansion.
Engagement Model
Ongoing support was provided through a monthly retainer agreement.
Our Clients
Meridian Fire Protection
A full-service fire protection and life safety company offering inspections, installations, design, and engineering for fire suppression systems, alarms, extinguishers, and more.
Objective
Provide long-term executive advisory support to the founder, with a focus on:
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Operational growth and efficiency
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Market dominance within their sector
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Preparing for a high-value business transition
Our Role
Lams & Associates worked closely with Meridian’s leadership for over seven years, offering consistent C-suite advisement and strategic planning.
Outcome
We developed and executed a successful exit strategy that positioned the company for acquisition by a global enterprise. The business achieved significant growth in both sales and market share before transition.
Engagement Model
Support was provided under a long-term monthly retainer agreement.
Payserve Global
A new mobile-based solution using game-style engagement with drivers, advertisers, and safety partners. The platform aggregates real-time data, applies machine learning, and visualizes insights through an interactive dashboard—improving consumer intelligence and driver safety analysis.
Objective
Secure over $5 million in seed funding and attract early users to support launch, validation, and market growth.
Our Role
Lams & Associates supported the company in preparing for funding rounds, managing investor relations, and building early traction with users and partners.
Outcome
The company successfully raised seed funding exceeding its target. Several user clients were onboarded, and a capital investment was made directly by Lams & Associates. Additionally, a strategic UK partnership was secured and continues to receive support through the Canadian parent company.
Engagement Model
A targeted engagement focused on funding success, strategic partnerships, and international positioning.
The Original Basket Boutique
A global gifting company founded by Patrick Lamoureux and Zora Brouwer, offering curated corporate gift solutions through a franchise system spanning Canada, the United States, Australia, the Emirates, and Malaysia.
Objective
Expand the brand by offering franchise units in key international markets while providing personalized gifting solutions to corporate clients through a scalable model.
Our Role
Lams & Associates led the development and rollout of the franchise system, identifying strategic markets, supporting franchisee onboarding, and building a strong foundation for global brand growth.
Outcome
The business grew to 60 franchise locations across five countries, generating strong franchise sales and royalty revenue through a well-structured and trusted global network.
Engagement Model
Led by the firm’s principals, this long-term initiative combined strategic planning, operational support, and brand development.
The St. Paul Canadiens Alumni Foundation
A charitable foundation rooted in the legacy of a junior hockey franchise dating back to 1952. The organization supports youth sports, educational scholarships, community development, and initiatives that honor truth and reconciliation.
Objective
Create a sustainable fund to support minor hockey programs, education for underprivileged youth, and community-building efforts tied to the Foundation’s historic roots.
Our Role
Lams & Associates provided leadership in formalizing the organization’s structure and strengthening its long-term impact through strategic planning and board development.
Outcome
A formal executive board was established to oversee charitable activities, funding allocation, and program delivery. This structure continues to guide the Foundation’s philanthropic efforts and ensure ongoing donor engagement.
Engagement Model
A founder-led initiative supported through long-term advisory, governance design, and strategic philanthropy planning.