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Expert

Embracing exit planning in M&A transactions can substantially boost a business's value by shifting focus from income generation to value acceleration, closing the Wealth Gap and Value Gap, and assembling a strong advisory team for a successful transition.
Whether you are selling to a new company or retiring from the business, you need a proper exiting strategy. Exiting without a sound strategy can prove to be a dangerous move for your business. The best exit strategy is one that fulfills all of your personal goals without putting the company at risk
Read the Full Article
By: Lyle Solomon | Principal Attorney
Ecommerce and SaaS businesses are taking up a larger market share every day. A savvy business broker will recognize the trends and learn how exiting these kind of businesses is different from traditional brick and mortar.

How I Sold My Business

Whether you are selling to a new company or retiring from the business, you need a proper exiting strategy. Exiting without a sound strategy can prove to be a dangerous move for your business. The best exit strategy is one that fulfills all of your personal goals without putting the company at risk
Read the Full Article
By: Lyle Solomon | Principal Attorney
Jason Gibson’s approach to selling his mid-sized business focused on a personal connection with potential buyers and created a non-adversarial environment for the process in doing so.
The emotional aspects of exiting your business are sometimes underplayed. Laura Coe sold Litholink and learned how tough it can be.
When a company like Intuit comes knocking, you answer… eventually. The first in Divestopedia’s How I Sold My Business series, with Nellie Akalp.

Maximize Value

Great advisory boards bring innovation and opportunity, but can they increase the overall value of your organization?
Companies need a roadmap to help them achieve measurable financial value creation. This article provides the various levers that company owners can focus on to amplify value in their business.
Whether you are selling to a new company or retiring from the business, you need a proper exiting strategy. Exiting without a sound strategy can prove to be a dangerous move for your business. The best exit strategy is one that fulfills all of your personal goals without putting the company at risk
Read the Full Article
By: Lyle Solomon | Principal Attorney
This article is an excerpt from Equicapita’s “Little Book of What Next?”
When building enterprise value for your business, a good strategic plan is critical.
The most common EBITDA adjustments you need to know when it comes time to sell your business.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
For those involved in M&A, EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) is the often-referenced, industry standard metric that plays a major role in how companies are traditionally valued. For those considering a sale of their business — the rule is that when you maximize EBITDA, you can maximize valuation.
A recently published Fairfield University whitepaper is the first comprehensive study quantifying the value of the services provided by an investment bank during the sales process, as determined by a survey of business owners who sold their business during the last five years.
The flows in our 500-year-old double-entry accounting system for recognizing the value of intangible assets are at the heart of a current and pervasive debate in the accounting and finance professions.
We’re witnessing a global economic shut down that has never been experienced in human history. Business owners will unfortunately suffer but past recessions can provide guidance on how to survive.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
To maximize price, you need to know what the investor is really looking for. Requirements vary widely from investor to investor, so learn to ask the right questions and what numbers really matter.
Learn what you can do if you lose your biggest client and your business’ sustainability is threatened.

Post Sale

Getting the deal done is one thing — living with your new partners (or boss!) is another. In this article we talk about the first 90 days post deal and what you can learn from an entrepreneur who is now on the buy side.
When a company like Intuit comes knocking, you answer… eventually. The first in Divestopedia’s How I Sold My Business series, with Nellie Akalp.
Thinking of selling your business? A helpful guide to figuring out if you are ready to sell and what you can look forward to after.
Opportunity zone investments can be worth a look if you’re facing capital gains and have the ability to invest.
How to prevent seller’s remorse and leave your business feeling positive about the process.
Michael Dash shares the lessons he learned from spending six years and a million dollars fighting with his business partner.
Jennifer Fondrevay of Day One Ready explains the thing most owners overlook when approaching transitioning their business after a sale.
The odds are against high net worth families to properly transfer wealth between generations. Here are four ways to preserve family wealth.
Work-life balance is impossible to achieve. Learn a more realistic method which will also carry through to your eventual exit.
In this podcast, Laura Rich discusses the emotional impact selling your business has and some tactics to lessen its effects.
This podcast takes you through Ryan Moran’s successful closing of an eight-figure deal and what he did to make it happen.
Find out why you need the right person to draft up your legal documents as an entrepreneur.

Pre Sale

Embracing exit planning in M&A transactions can substantially boost a business's value by shifting focus from income generation to value acceleration, closing the Wealth Gap and Value Gap, and assembling a strong advisory team for a successful transition.
The article underscores the symbiotic relationship between Financial Advisors and M&A Advisors, emphasizing the importance of harmonizing business, personal, and financial objectives for successful business transitions. Effective communication, role clarity, and a comprehensive approach are key in navigating the complexities of such transactions. Business owners benefit most when these professionals collaboratively address both immediate transactional needs and long-term financial goals.
Effective exit planning is essential for a successful business transition. Without proper preparation and expert guidance, sellers may face valuation disputes, unmet financial goals, and protracted negotiations. Involving a diverse team of experts ensures a holistic approach, maximizing potential outcomes and minimizing unforeseen challenges.
When it comes to maximizing the various deal sources that can feed your acquisition funnel, there are a few options in terms of deal sourcing technology, platforms and services that you can use.
Business owners: prepare for the single largest financial transaction in your lifetime.
Here are the key elements you should consider before you decide whether to sell to a strategic buyer or private equity.
Read the Full Article
By: Jack Kearney | Managing Director
A business owner that is contemplating the sale of his business could greatly benefit from rigorous buyer feedback two of three years prior to actually beginning the business sale process.
Great advisory boards bring innovation and opportunity, but can they increase the overall value of your organization?
This article explains how to negate the due diligence grind that can potentially decrease your sale price.
When you sell your business, you need to know what the net proceeds will be. The purchase price is fine, but the net proceeds is ultimately what you need to know. In this article, we discuss how to compute these net proceeds.
There are a ton of different ways you can make considerations for your management team when it comes to private equity buyouts. Watch out for conflicts of interest and provide the right incentives for success.
Don’t wait for the New Year. Be proactive about your future and start your exit plan today, with these three simple steps.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.

Quotes

Business owners should be spending time on activities that can add the greatest value to their businesses. Rob Slee, renown value creation expert, breaks down key areas to focus on.
Have you defined what a “successful” exit actually looks like? Do you have a realistic goal for when you want to sell the company and how much you want to sell it for?

Sale Process

In the business world, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are typically seen as financial transactions, but they have a deeply personal impact on business owners. When considering an exit strategy, owners grapple with questions about their legacy, life outside the business, and their identity.
In the M&A world, there are few terms as dreaded as the “Re-Trade”.  Learn how to avoid them.
When it comes to selling your business, it's important to play the field.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
Here are the key elements you should consider before you decide whether to sell to a strategic buyer or private equity.
Read the Full Article
By: Jack Kearney | Managing Director
This article explains how to negate the due diligence grind that can potentially decrease your sale price.
Sellers tend to have no idea how a buyer has financed an acquisition, but a closer look inside can show a business owner what it takes to complete a deal.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
There are a ton of different ways you can make considerations for your management team when it comes to private equity buyouts. Watch out for conflicts of interest and provide the right incentives for success.
Understanding how customers will perceive news of your acquisition will improve the transition. Learn about the need for planning and the costs to manage customer perceptions.
Jason Gibson’s approach to selling his mid-sized business focused on a personal connection with potential buyers and created a non-adversarial environment for the process in doing so.
The emotional aspects of exiting your business are sometimes underplayed. Laura Coe sold Litholink and learned how tough it can be.
While the industry may be slow to adopt artificial intelligence and machine learning, those who use the latest in M&A technology will have the advantage.
When a company like Intuit comes knocking, you answer… eventually. The first in Divestopedia’s How I Sold My Business series, with Nellie Akalp.

Valuation

Great advisory boards bring innovation and opportunity, but can they increase the overall value of your organization?
This article explains how to negate the due diligence grind that can potentially decrease your sale price.
Sellers tend to have no idea how a buyer has financed an acquisition, but a closer look inside can show a business owner what it takes to complete a deal.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
There are lots of acronyms to know in the world of divestments. EBITDA is one of the most important. Here’s what you need to know.
The most common EBITDA adjustments you need to know when it comes time to sell your business.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
Avoid overestimating the value of your business’s goodwill to keep sales expectations realistic.
A recently published Fairfield University whitepaper is the first comprehensive study quantifying the value of the services provided by an investment bank during the sales process, as determined by a survey of business owners who sold their business during the last five years.
We must fully invest in the growth and development of our human capital by providing education and training to our teams at all levels to teach how to become farmers inside our companies and in their own lives.
The flows in our 500-year-old double-entry accounting system for recognizing the value of intangible assets are at the heart of a current and pervasive debate in the accounting and finance professions.
Determining the value of your business is the starting point to building value. Here’s how to set up a simple valuation template in excel.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
Learn what makes up a good valuation and start the process before it’s too late.
Below are nine key risk factors that you can expect to see in any business appraisal.

Company Discount

Understand the role of operations due diligence as an M&A and business analysis tool.
Talking up your business is a good thing, right? Only if you’re telling the truth.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
Valuation is an iterative process — you have to cycle through variables like markets, competition, management and assets multiple times before you can build a reliable financial forecast and discount it back to today.
Recurring revenue is the holy grail for business owners looking to have a valuable and sellable company. Learn how to secure stable and predictable cash flow in your business.
If you are approached with an unsolicited offer to buy your business, be careful. Often times it is a bottom feeder looking to get a bargain and your company is one of dozens that are similarly contacted. If you become intoxicated with the thoughts of future riches, you could put your company in jeopardy.

Company Premium

Companies need a roadmap to help them achieve measurable financial value creation. This article provides the various levers that company owners can focus on to amplify value in their business.
This article is an excerpt from Equicapita’s “Little Book of What Next?”
There are a ton of different ways you can make considerations for your management team when it comes to private equity buyouts. Watch out for conflicts of interest and provide the right incentives for success.
Identifying and articulating the goodwill in your business can have a significant impact on value.
Building a business is hard work, but achieving your goals makes it all worthwhile.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
With supposedly so many buyers and sellers of businesses, why is it still so hard to close a deal? Here are the 5 misconceptions that create this gap between them.
You can be the driver of value for your own business by starting with an assessment of how it stacks up against these valuation parameters.
Attract a high multiple for your private company by learning how the sales process impacts a company valuation.
Meticulous financial records will get you more for your business by mitigating risk early in the process.
Understand the role of operations due diligence as an M&A and business analysis tool.
Valuations may be massaged, but you’ll rarely have a company pay you today for what your company might be worth in five years. Convertible bonds can help you bridge that gap.
Learn why private companies are valued lower than their public peers, and what you can do to offset this.

Differentiation

Companies need a roadmap to help them achieve measurable financial value creation. This article provides the various levers that company owners can focus on to amplify value in their business.
Identifying and articulating the goodwill in your business can have a significant impact on value.
A seller who is looking for capital and expertise to continue growing the business may want to consider being part of a roll-up.
The customer experience is a vital part of the success of your business, so figuring out how to engage your employees to work the business like you would is important.
Understanding what value drivers are so you can improve them and, therefore, your valuation.
Get answers to the questions who will buy my company and what are they looking for in an acquisition?
Attract a high multiple for your private company by learning how the sales process impacts a company valuation.
Looking at the market from an acquisition standpoint will allow you to see growth opportunities that differ from building a business from the ground up.
A well-definited business model sets you apart from the competition, especially if you’ve developed your barriers to entry.
Learn how to use recurring revenue to get better and more competitive offers when you go to sell your business.
Waiting for the right time is worth it, especially if you grow your business in the meantime.
Your business story should be customer-focused, not focused on your business’ history. Learn the difference in this podcast.

Exit Planning

Embracing exit planning in M&A transactions can substantially boost a business's value by shifting focus from income generation to value acceleration, closing the Wealth Gap and Value Gap, and assembling a strong advisory team for a successful transition.
The article underscores the symbiotic relationship between Financial Advisors and M&A Advisors, emphasizing the importance of harmonizing business, personal, and financial objectives for successful business transitions. Effective communication, role clarity, and a comprehensive approach are key in navigating the complexities of such transactions. Business owners benefit most when these professionals collaboratively address both immediate transactional needs and long-term financial goals.
Effective exit planning is essential for a successful business transition. Without proper preparation and expert guidance, sellers may face valuation disputes, unmet financial goals, and protracted negotiations. Involving a diverse team of experts ensures a holistic approach, maximizing potential outcomes and minimizing unforeseen challenges.
Business owners: prepare for the single largest financial transaction in your lifetime.
When you sell your business, you need to know what the net proceeds will be. The purchase price is fine, but the net proceeds is ultimately what you need to know. In this article, we discuss how to compute these net proceeds.
Whether you are selling to a new company or retiring from the business, you need a proper exiting strategy. Exiting without a sound strategy can prove to be a dangerous move for your business. The best exit strategy is one that fulfills all of your personal goals without putting the company at risk
Read the Full Article
By: Lyle Solomon | Principal Attorney
Don’t wait for the New Year. Be proactive about your future and start your exit plan today, with these three simple steps.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
There are lots of acronyms to know in the world of divestments. EBITDA is one of the most important. Here’s what you need to know.
The only way to ensure a successful exit from your business is by learning as much as you can before launching the process.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
There are lots of exit options for business owners when it comes time to sell. The key is to keep expectations realistic.
Thinking of selling your business? A helpful guide to figuring out if you are ready to sell and what you can look forward to after.
Transitioning out of your business is difficult. Decide now what kind of life you want next.

Financial Metrics

This article is an excerpt from Equicapita’s “Little Book of What Next?”
Sellers tend to have no idea how a buyer has financed an acquisition, but a closer look inside can show a business owner what it takes to complete a deal.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
The most common EBITDA adjustments you need to know when it comes time to sell your business.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
To maximize price, you need to know what the investor is really looking for. Requirements vary widely from investor to investor, so learn to ask the right questions and what numbers really matter.
Whether you’re thinking of moving your company to another state, or abroad, or working abroad as an individual, learn the dos and don’ts of U.S., International and interstate tax before you do.
Learn what to watch out for when using venture capital and how it stacks up to other forms of funding, both traditional and inventive.
Opportunity zone investments can be worth a look if you’re facing capital gains and have the ability to invest.
Learn how Michael Kaplan scaled his business from $300k to 18 million, despite not having everything lined up.
The Due Diligence Grind is often practiced by sophisticated acquirers to reduce the purchase price of a business by citing negative findings during due diligence.
Matt Boettner walks us through the financing options he used to structure the deal, what other options were out there and why he didn’t go down those roads.
Learn what matters, sometimes more than the numbers, when it comes to M&A deals.
Entrepreneurs need more data on what drives the value in their companies if they want to compete successfully in the middle market.

Forecasting

This article explains how to negate the due diligence grind that can potentially decrease your sale price.
While the industry may be slow to adopt artificial intelligence and machine learning, those who use the latest in M&A technology will have the advantage.
For those involved in M&A, EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) is the often-referenced, industry standard metric that plays a major role in how companies are traditionally valued. For those considering a sale of their business — the rule is that when you maximize EBITDA, you can maximize valuation.
The flows in our 500-year-old double-entry accounting system for recognizing the value of intangible assets are at the heart of a current and pervasive debate in the accounting and finance professions.
We’re witnessing a global economic shut down that has never been experienced in human history. Business owners will unfortunately suffer but past recessions can provide guidance on how to survive.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
Learn what you can do if you lose your biggest client and your business’ sustainability is threatened.
The key to a successful deal is to prepare well, come out strong and maintain momentum throughout the business sale process.
Don’t overlook using a business developer to increase the productivity and value of your business.
The Due Diligence Grind is often practiced by sophisticated acquirers to reduce the purchase price of a business by citing negative findings during due diligence.
Learn how to use recurring revenue to get better and more competitive offers when you go to sell your business.
Business owners: Don’t limit your options. Here’s how to plan and evaluate the best option for you.
Great rap insights on increasing your valuation and successfully selling your business.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.

Management Team

Great advisory boards bring innovation and opportunity, but can they increase the overall value of your organization?
There are a ton of different ways you can make considerations for your management team when it comes to private equity buyouts. Watch out for conflicts of interest and provide the right incentives for success.
When and why you should do a MBO, and what the financing can look like.
Before you hand your business over to the next generation, keep these 8 things in mind as you transition your company.
The operating partner in private equity has developed into a critical person (and group) for the PE firm and for the investments they become involved in.
A stable, skilled, quality workforce is one of the top value drivers that contributes to the purchase price of a business.
Avoid these 5 candidate types when selecting a potential successor.
MBOs are risky, but can be mutually rewarding when these three key areas of focus are done right.
Valuation is an iterative process — you have to cycle through variables like markets, competition, management and assets multiple times before you can build a reliable financial forecast and discount it back to today.
Discover how you can further maximize your company’s shareholder value by playing the long game and what factors are most likely to influence your price point.
Use this handy list of pitfalls and ways to avoid them to prepare yourself for the M&A process.
High-performing boards take time to design properly, but — once established — can add significant value to an enterprise.

Process Documentation

The Due Diligence Grind is often practiced by sophisticated acquirers to reduce the purchase price of a business by citing negative findings during due diligence.
A stable, skilled, quality workforce is one of the top value drivers that contributes to the purchase price of a business.
Missing deadlines as either buyer or seller has consequences on the deal.
There are many drivers that can increase the value of a business, but one is more important than any other.
How to prevent seller’s remorse and leave your business feeling positive about the process.
Understand the importance of documented systems that allow owners to remove themselves from the business.
Clarifying the letter of intent in the beginning can help you avoid killing a deal in the end.
Do you understand the new tax laws? Here are some tips for getting started.
Use this handy list of pitfalls and ways to avoid them to prepare yourself for the M&A process.
If you’re preparing to sell your business, you’ll want to spend the next 180 days updating contracts, financial reporting and human resources.
Earnouts are difficult legal clauses to manage and can often lead to misunderstanding and difficulty realizing them. Here is a practical example of some of the pitfalls that sellers should watch for.
This is part three of a three-part series that identifies the natural advantages that business buyers bring to the table before the transaction process even starts.

Readiness

When it comes to selling your business, it's important to play the field.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
When you sell your business, you need to know what the net proceeds will be. The purchase price is fine, but the net proceeds is ultimately what you need to know. In this article, we discuss how to compute these net proceeds.
The most common EBITDA adjustments you need to know when it comes time to sell your business.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
Transitioning out of your business is difficult. Decide now what kind of life you want next.
We’re witnessing a global economic shut down that has never been experienced in human history. Business owners will unfortunately suffer but past recessions can provide guidance on how to survive.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
Below are nine key risk factors that you can expect to see in any business appraisal.
A business owner should consider the five key factors in their search in selecting the right investment banker for the sale process.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
Charles Smith outlines why it’s important to start the exit with the end, rather than the other way around!
This article will show you what mistakes many of your fellow business owners have made and which you can learn from!
Succession planning is for companies of every size, so have you thought about doing it for your business yet?
Before you hand your business over to the next generation, keep these 8 things in mind as you transition your company.

Customer Communication

Understanding how customers will perceive news of your acquisition will improve the transition. Learn about the need for planning and the costs to manage customer perceptions.
Learn what you can do if you lose your biggest client and your business’ sustainability is threatened.
The customer is always right applies not just to restaurants, but also to digital services businesses.
Get an idea of expected net cash proceeds from the sale of your business with the example below.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.

Employee Communication

ESOPs can be a nice exit strategy for some small business owners, but they are not perfect for every situation.
There are many drivers that can increase the value of a business, but one is more important than any other.
Learn what matters, sometimes more than the numbers, when it comes to M&A deals.
Employee-first culture is vital in today’s business world if you want to build a successful and profitable company.
Kelly takes us through the whole process of starting a business from why to the inevitable exit. Learn from her experiences and perfect your process!
Maintaining a strong integration process throughout a merger and acquisition can make everything run more smoothly and increase the chance of a positive outcome for all involved.
Three areas to consider when deciding if now is the right time to sell your business.
It’s important to incorporate incentives to harness your deal team’s commitment to the successful sale of your business while minimizing uncertainties during this transitional period.
What if you died and your spouse just inherited your business. What should they do with it? Learn more about business continuity planning in cases of unforeseen events.

Expectations

Embracing exit planning in M&A transactions can substantially boost a business's value by shifting focus from income generation to value acceleration, closing the Wealth Gap and Value Gap, and assembling a strong advisory team for a successful transition.
Effective exit planning is essential for a successful business transition. Without proper preparation and expert guidance, sellers may face valuation disputes, unmet financial goals, and protracted negotiations. Involving a diverse team of experts ensures a holistic approach, maximizing potential outcomes and minimizing unforeseen challenges.
This article explains how to negate the due diligence grind that can potentially decrease your sale price.
Thinking of selling your business? A helpful guide to figuring out if you are ready to sell and what you can look forward to after.
Below are nine key risk factors that you can expect to see in any business appraisal.
A seller who is looking for capital and expertise to continue growing the business may want to consider being part of a roll-up.
Here are some issues you may face when it’s time to sell your company. Prepare yourself and don’t make these mistakes!
Building a business is hard work, but achieving your goals makes it all worthwhile.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
The key to a successful deal is to prepare well, come out strong and maintain momentum throughout the business sale process.
Charles Smith outlines why it’s important to start the exit with the end, rather than the other way around!
Figuring out how to put your charitable actions to work for you has never been easier than Luther Ranheim’s solution of a donor-advised fund to offset taxes at time of sale.
Learn what matters, sometimes more than the numbers, when it comes to M&A deals.

First 100 Days

Getting the deal done is one thing — living with your new partners (or boss!) is another. In this article we talk about the first 90 days post deal and what you can learn from an entrepreneur who is now on the buy side.
Jennifer Fondrevay of Day One Ready explains the thing most owners overlook when approaching transitioning their business after a sale.
Earnouts are underused and misunderstood, but this is simply because they aren’t appropriate in all circumstances.
Maintaining a strong integration process throughout a merger and acquisition can make everything run more smoothly and increase the chance of a positive outcome for all involved.
This podcast with Kevin McCarthy covers the why behind using your purpose to define and build both your life and business, making you more successful in both.
Cody McLain shares his business experiences in building and selling his company, as well as learning how to delegate to a team you trust.
​Acquisition integrations are just like major surgery. Precise execution and quick completion are best. Learn key approaches and leading practices.
Paul Wormley from Hadley Capital digs deeper into the specifics about what a business owner can expect to change upon closing a deal with a private equity partner in regards to financial reporting and budgeting.
Paul Wormley from Hadley Capital digs deeper into the specifics about what a business owner can expect to change upon closing a deal with a private equity partner in regards to employees, contracts and the addition of a board of directors.
Expect the following changes after closing a deal with a private equity firm.
We are in the midst of a demographic tsunami with respect to business ownership transition. Since about 2005, the press has been heralding the emerging wave of baby boomer business owners who will and must transition the ownership of their businesses. The business environment for business transactions soured late in the last decade and many owners, waiting for changes in the estate tax laws, deferred much-needed estate planning activities. The bottom line is that the pent-up demand for transitions that began to emerge in the last decade will have its day. Will you, as a business owner, be ready? If you are an advisor, will your clients be ready?
If you could purposely – not accidentally, but purposely – create the culture that had the highest probability of causing your people to perform at the highest levels, wouldn’t it make total sense to do that?

First Year After Acquisition

Opportunity zone investments can be worth a look if you’re facing capital gains and have the ability to invest.
Michael Dash shares the lessons he learned from spending six years and a million dollars fighting with his business partner.
Jennifer Fondrevay of Day One Ready explains the thing most owners overlook when approaching transitioning their business after a sale.
It may seem counterintuitive, but sometimes buying back the business you sold is the best decision you’ll make.
Strategic planning is a necessary part of a successful M&A deal. Make sure your newest acquisition will survive the sale. Here’s how.
​Acquisition integrations are just like major surgery. Precise execution and quick completion are best. Learn key approaches and leading practices.
Branding strategies impact how your new acquisition or merger is accepted in the marketplace.
Mergers and acquistions are hard enough without these surprisingly common reasons they can fail. Learn how to avoid these mistakes and strengthen your M&A strategy.
Mergers and acquisitions lead to branding questions. What does your new brand need to say about you? Here are some key factors to consider.
Branding plays an undervalued role in the success of any merger and acquisition.
Eighty percent of people with wealth in excess of $5 million gain it through entrepreneurship. Learn about wealth management strategies from Richard C. Wilson, a leading professional in the area of family offices for the ultra-wealthy.
Paul Wormley from Hadley Capital digs deeper into the specifics about what a business owner can expect to change upon closing a deal with a private equity partner in regards to financial reporting and budgeting.

Week After Closing

How to prevent seller’s remorse and leave your business feeling positive about the process.
Jennifer Fondrevay of Day One Ready explains the thing most owners overlook when approaching transitioning their business after a sale.
Earnouts are underused and misunderstood, but this is simply because they aren’t appropriate in all circumstances.
Use this handy list of pitfalls and ways to avoid them to prepare yourself for the M&A process.
Cody McLain shares his business experiences in building and selling his company, as well as learning how to delegate to a team you trust.
​Acquisition integrations are just like major surgery. Precise execution and quick completion are best. Learn key approaches and leading practices.
Eighty percent of people with wealth in excess of $5 million gain it through entrepreneurship. Learn about wealth management strategies from Richard C. Wilson, a leading professional in the area of family offices for the ultra-wealthy.
Paul Wormley from Hadley Capital digs deeper into the specifics about what a business owner can expect to change upon closing a deal with a private equity partner in regards to financial reporting and budgeting.
Paul Wormley from Hadley Capital digs deeper into the specifics about what a business owner can expect to change upon closing a deal with a private equity partner in regards to employees, contracts and the addition of a board of directors.
Expect the following changes after closing a deal with a private equity firm.
We are in the midst of a demographic tsunami with respect to business ownership transition. Since about 2005, the press has been heralding the emerging wave of baby boomer business owners who will and must transition the ownership of their businesses. The business environment for business transactions soured late in the last decade and many owners, waiting for changes in the estate tax laws, deferred much-needed estate planning activities. The bottom line is that the pent-up demand for transitions that began to emerge in the last decade will have its day. Will you, as a business owner, be ready? If you are an advisor, will your clients be ready?
Bo Burlingham’s book, “Finish Big,” summarized his research with entrepreneurs on the keys to a successful and happy exit from a business.

Week Before Closing

How to prevent seller’s remorse and leave your business feeling positive about the process.
Use this handy list of pitfalls and ways to avoid them to prepare yourself for the M&A process.
If the price can go down during the due diligence process, then the price should also be able to go up.
Competitive tension is essential to exert control over the sale process and present an enforceable timeline to bidders.

Deciding to Sell

When it comes to maximizing the various deal sources that can feed your acquisition funnel, there are a few options in terms of deal sourcing technology, platforms and services that you can use.
When it comes to selling your business, it's important to play the field.
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By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
Business owners: prepare for the single largest financial transaction in your lifetime.
When you sell your business, you need to know what the net proceeds will be. The purchase price is fine, but the net proceeds is ultimately what you need to know. In this article, we discuss how to compute these net proceeds.
Transitioning out of your business is difficult. Decide now what kind of life you want next.
As the market becomes more favorable for business owners to sell, we look at three different routes for owners to sell their business.
To maximize price, you need to know what the investor is really looking for. Requirements vary widely from investor to investor, so learn to ask the right questions and what numbers really matter.
Below are nine key risk factors that you can expect to see in any business appraisal.
Hiring a sell-side advisor is a wise move if you want the very best possible outcome when selling your business.
Here are some issues you may face when it’s time to sell your company. Prepare yourself and don’t make these mistakes!
Building a business is hard work, but achieving your goals makes it all worthwhile.
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By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
Mattie O’Reilly shares the how and when to buy a restaurant, what to invest, and the right time to sell at a profit.

Emotional Aspects

When it comes to selling your business, it's important to play the field.
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By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
Getting the deal done is one thing — living with your new partners (or boss!) is another. In this article we talk about the first 90 days post deal and what you can learn from an entrepreneur who is now on the buy side.
The emotional aspects of exiting your business are sometimes underplayed. Laura Coe sold Litholink and learned how tough it can be.
Transitioning out of your business is difficult. Decide now what kind of life you want next.
Here are some issues you may face when it’s time to sell your company. Prepare yourself and don’t make these mistakes!
Charles Smith outlines why it’s important to start the exit with the end, rather than the other way around!
Owners who are reluctant to address succession planning may become the unwitting obstacle to the preservation and future growth of the business they worked so hard to create.
ESOPs can be a nice exit strategy for some small business owners, but they are not perfect for every situation.
Learn what matters, sometimes more than the numbers, when it comes to M&A deals.
How to prevent seller’s remorse and leave your business feeling positive about the process.
Michael Dash shares the lessons he learned from spending six years and a million dollars fighting with his business partner.
In this podcast, Laura Rich discusses the emotional impact selling your business has and some tactics to lessen its effects.

Family issue

John Garuti talks about the two-year sale of his family business and what happens during negotiations and after closing.
These 5 tips for succession planning will save you many headaches as you look to exit your business.
Owners who are reluctant to address succession planning may become the unwitting obstacle to the preservation and future growth of the business they worked so hard to create.
Succession planning is for companies of every size, so have you thought about doing it for your business yet?
Before you hand your business over to the next generation, keep these 8 things in mind as you transition your company.
You’ve trained good people to do good work — let them take over your business when it’s time to retire. This is how.
A trust advisory committee provides ongoing support, guidance and education for trustees and beneficiaries.
Learn about buy-sell agreements and why they are an integral part of exit planning.
The odds are against high net worth families to properly transfer wealth between generations. Here are four ways to preserve family wealth.
In this podcast with Carrie Hall and James Bly, we explore the 30-13-3 rule of succession planning and the best ways to ensure a successful transition.
In this podcast, Wayne Rivers shares his years of experience in the family business industry. Learn how to work together as a family, in business, for maximum success.
A family office may be the solution you’ve been looking for in your wealth management strategy. Richard Wilson’s interview elaborates.

Preparation

Embracing exit planning in M&A transactions can substantially boost a business's value by shifting focus from income generation to value acceleration, closing the Wealth Gap and Value Gap, and assembling a strong advisory team for a successful transition.
The article underscores the symbiotic relationship between Financial Advisors and M&A Advisors, emphasizing the importance of harmonizing business, personal, and financial objectives for successful business transitions. Effective communication, role clarity, and a comprehensive approach are key in navigating the complexities of such transactions. Business owners benefit most when these professionals collaboratively address both immediate transactional needs and long-term financial goals.
Effective exit planning is essential for a successful business transition. Without proper preparation and expert guidance, sellers may face valuation disputes, unmet financial goals, and protracted negotiations. Involving a diverse team of experts ensures a holistic approach, maximizing potential outcomes and minimizing unforeseen challenges.
A business owner that is contemplating the sale of his business could greatly benefit from rigorous buyer feedback two of three years prior to actually beginning the business sale process.
Great advisory boards bring innovation and opportunity, but can they increase the overall value of your organization?
This article explains how to negate the due diligence grind that can potentially decrease your sale price.
Companies need a roadmap to help them achieve measurable financial value creation. This article provides the various levers that company owners can focus on to amplify value in their business.
There are a ton of different ways you can make considerations for your management team when it comes to private equity buyouts. Watch out for conflicts of interest and provide the right incentives for success.
Don’t wait for the New Year. Be proactive about your future and start your exit plan today, with these three simple steps.
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By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
Thinking of selling your business? A helpful guide to figuring out if you are ready to sell and what you can look forward to after.
We’re witnessing a global economic shut down that has never been experienced in human history. Business owners will unfortunately suffer but past recessions can provide guidance on how to survive.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
Below are nine key risk factors that you can expect to see in any business appraisal.

Reason to sell

When you sell your business, you need to know what the net proceeds will be. The purchase price is fine, but the net proceeds is ultimately what you need to know. In this article, we discuss how to compute these net proceeds.
This article is an excerpt from Equicapita’s “Little Book of What Next?”
Thinking of selling your business? A helpful guide to figuring out if you are ready to sell and what you can look forward to after.
We’re witnessing a global economic shut down that has never been experienced in human history. Business owners will unfortunately suffer but past recessions can provide guidance on how to survive.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
Here are some issues you may face when it’s time to sell your company. Prepare yourself and don’t make these mistakes!
Charles Smith outlines why it’s important to start the exit with the end, rather than the other way around!
Before you hand your business over to the next generation, keep these 8 things in mind as you transition your company.
Learn what matters, sometimes more than the numbers, when it comes to M&A deals.
Five practical tools to get your business on the road to succession planning.
It may seem counterintuitive, but sometimes buying back the business you sold is the best decision you’ll make.
Software sales are time sensitive. The best time to sell your company is when your largest competitors are moving in the market. Here’s why:
Marcelo De Fuentes offers his insights gained from achieving financial freedom though the businesses he built from the ground up.

Buyer Types

When it comes to selling your business, it's important to play the field.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
Here are the key elements you should consider before you decide whether to sell to a strategic buyer or private equity.
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By: Jack Kearney | Managing Director
A business owner that is contemplating the sale of his business could greatly benefit from rigorous buyer feedback two of three years prior to actually beginning the business sale process.
Sellers tend to have no idea how a buyer has financed an acquisition, but a closer look inside can show a business owner what it takes to complete a deal.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
As the market becomes more favorable for business owners to sell, we look at three different routes for owners to sell their business.
To maximize price, you need to know what the investor is really looking for. Requirements vary widely from investor to investor, so learn to ask the right questions and what numbers really matter.
A seller who is looking for capital and expertise to continue growing the business may want to consider being part of a roll-up.
With supposedly so many buyers and sellers of businesses, why is it still so hard to close a deal? Here are the 5 misconceptions that create this gap between them.
As business owners, you need to consider the types of buyers that are in the market, how those buyers perceive value and the advantages and disadvantages associated with each.
An inside look at the two main types of platform acquisitions and how you can use them to help your business.
When and why you should do a MBO, and what the financing can look like.
Succession planning is for companies of every size, so have you thought about doing it for your business yet?

Capital Structure

In the business world, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are typically seen as financial transactions, but they have a deeply personal impact on business owners. When considering an exit strategy, owners grapple with questions about their legacy, life outside the business, and their identity.
Sellers tend to have no idea how a buyer has financed an acquisition, but a closer look inside can show a business owner what it takes to complete a deal.
Read the Full Article
By: John Carvalho | President, Divestopedia Inc.
We must fully invest in the growth and development of our human capital by providing education and training to our teams at all levels to teach how to become farmers inside our companies and in their own lives.
Learn what you can do if you lose your biggest client and your business’ sustainability is threatened.
Many small software companies selling to large enterprises often toil for years trying to scale and reach a critical mass. They have great products and are passionate about their mission, but they struggle to break the code of the legacy technology buyer.
Learn what to watch out for when using venture capital and how it stacks up to other forms of funding, both traditional and inventive.
Opportunity zone investments can be worth a look if you’re facing capital gains and have the ability to invest.
Learn how Michael Kaplan scaled his business from $300k to 18 million, despite not having everything lined up.
Figuring out how to put your charitable actions to work for you has never been easier than Luther Ranheim’s solution of a donor-advised fund to offset taxes at time of sale.
Earnouts are hardly perfect, but they can be useful if they’re understood by all parties.
Matt Boettner walks us through the financing options he used to structure the deal, what other options were out there and why he didn’t go down those roads.
Understanding options related to business real estate will help maximize value and achieve the goals desired in a transaction.

Earnouts

“The devil is in the detail, in terms of how an earnout gets written.”
Earnouts are hardly perfect, but they can be useful if they’re understood by all parties.
Business owners: Don’t limit your options. Here’s how to plan and evaluate the best option for you.
Learn about the advantages and disadvantages of this structuring tool used primarily to bridge a valuation gap.