The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) has teamed up with Baton to give contractors guidance and support for one of the biggest decisions they’ll ever make: transitioning ownership of their business.

Baton helps HVACR business owners navigate the complexities of valuation, buyer matching, and ownership transition with white-glove service and access to buyers who understand the operational realities of running an HVACR company. With industry-leading close rates and a process built around the needs of small business owners, Baton aims to deliver seamless transitions that protect the legacy contractors have built.  

Founded by Chat Joglekar and Dylan Gans, Baton was created to solve a problem that affects thousands of small business owners every year. Dylan’s grandfather spent 40 years building a successful medical practice, but lacked the tools and expertise to value his business or find the right successor, so he simply shut it down.  

That story isn’t unique. According to McKinsey, 70% of small business owners need to retire in the next 10 years, yet 98% don’t know the value of their business. Most lack access to trusted guidance for planning an exit. 

“HVACR contractors pour everything into building their businesses, and they deserve better than hoping it all works out when it's time to step away,” said Barton James, ACCA president and CEO. “Companies like Baton help give contractors the tools to understand what they’ve built, plan their transition, and find buyers who will carry their legacy forward.” 

 For HVACR contractors who have spent decades building their companies, Baton aims to provide clarity, expertise and a pathway to transition that preserves what they’ve created.  

 “We kept hearing the same thing from HVAC contractors — they'd spent decades building a great business but had no idea what selling it actually looks like. Baton exists to close that gap. Partnering with ACCA lets us reach those owners earlier, so when they're ready to explore a transition, they have a clear path and real numbers to work with — not just guesswork,” said Chat Joglekar, CEO and co-founder of Baton. 

 ACCA’s Strategic Partner Program brings together contractors and industry leaders committed to strengthening HVACR businesses and advancing the profession.