2026 Program

Most business owners are scaling without answering the most important question first: what are you actually building towards? 

Build-to-sell and build-to-keep aren’t just different exit strategies — they’re different operating philosophies. How you approach capital, people, organic growth versus acquisition, and risk all depends on which path you’re on. If you haven’t made that choice consciously, you may be optimizing for the wrong outcome. 

Join a panel of accomplished entrepreneurs and seasoned advisors who have successfully scaled their businesses through both organic and accelerated strategies. They’ll share real-world insights, proven frameworks, and practical examples to help you grow with confidence and avoid costly missteps. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Understand the core differences between build-to-sell and build-to-keep — and which fits your goals 

• Know when acquiring growth makes more sense than building it organically 

• Align systems, people, and financing to support sustainable growth 

• Recognize the pitfalls that stall momentum — and how to avoid them 

• Leave with a clearer philosophy and practical next steps 

Receiving an offer to buy your company marks a critical phase in your entrepreneurial journey. But what comes next? How do you navigate the complexities of valuation, negotiation, and transition planning to ensure the best possible outcome?

This session will provide key insights and tactical steps to successfully manage the sale process, helping you make informed decisions about whether to hire an advisor or banker, how to prepare your business for the transaction, and how to structure the deal for maximum value.

What You’ll Learn:

• Identifying the Right Buyer: Understand the differences between strategic buyers, private equity firms, and other investors, and learn how to position your business to attract the right buyer.
• Optimal Timing for Sale: Gain insights into market trends and economic indicators that influence valuation, ensuring your exit strategy aligns with peak market conditions.
• Crafting a Robust Transition Plan: Go beyond the sale and develop a transition strategy that preserves employee retention, client relationships, and brand continuity to minimize disruption.
• Negotiation Strategies & Deal Structuring: Master negotiation techniques and explore deal structures that maximize value, prevent risk, and ensure a successful outcome.

Join this session for practical guidance and expert insights that will empower you to navigate the selling process with confidence and make the right decisions for your future.

Acquiring a business can be one of the fastest ways to accelerate growth – but only if done right. Whether you’re exploring acquisition as a growth strategy or already have deals under your belt, this tactical session will walk you through the essential steps of the acquisition process, from sourcing and evaluating targets to structuring deals and integrating operations. Learn how experienced buyers identify opportunities, minimize risks, and drive value post-acquisition. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Source the Right Targets: Strategies to find businesses that align with your goals 

• Evaluate Value and Fit: Key metrics and red flags to assess before making an offer 

• Structure Smart Deals: Understand financing options, terms, and negotiation tactics 

• Plan for Integration: Ensure a smooth transition to maximize value and reduce disruption