M&A activity improved in 2024, and owner-operators are increasingly exploring their liquidity options. Each transaction is nuanced, ranging from 100% sales to minority investments, and every owner has a unique objective and compelling story.
William Blair is thrilled to have unlocked $12 billion in sell-side M&A and capital on behalf of founder-owned businesses in 2024. Our pre-liquidity planning team helped these owners reduce over $50 million in income tax exposure through philanthropic planning, qualified small business stock elections, and other estate planning strategies.
We recognize the importance of business owners working with their William Blair team to turn hard work into enduring financial legacies. Assembling a coordinated effort is essential to achieving a cohesive approach to planning for a successful deal and life after a liquidity event. From pre-liquidity planning to family office formation, finalizing a deal is a big step in a longer journey—for CEOs, founders, and their top advisors.
“We know that the stakes are incredibly high for these owner-operators, whose companies have become their lives’ work, maybe even central to the fabric of their families,” said William Blair’s Sam Longenecker, founder-owned business advisor. “Understanding our clients’ goals, we walk them through their options and potential partners for the next phase of their business. We feel honored to be part of these journeys as we help determine what makes the most sense on a personal and professional level.”
For nine decades, William Blair has guided owners of closely held businesses and their trusted advisors through monumental decisions. Our experts utilize a relationship-driven approach to empower owner-operators to maximize value, so they can turn new capital into an enduring legacy.
Please contact Andrew Hansen or Sam Longenecker to learn more about our founder-owned business expertise.