Insights

Most business partnerships begin with alignment and shared optimism. Founders are focused on growth, opportunity, and building something of lasting value. At that stage, discussing what happens if someone leaves can feel unnecessary and even uncomfortable. As a result, the question of exit planning is often deferred. “We trust each other.”“We’ll address that if it ever becomes an issue.” Unfortunately, by the time it becomes an issue, it is usually too late to address it calm

For many business owners, selling isn’t just a financial decision. It’s personal. A family-owned company often represents decades of work, risk, reinvestment, sacrifice, and identity. It may have supported multiple generations. It may employ people who feel like extended family. And in many cases, the owner never intended to sell at all. Then the call comes. An interested buyer.A competitor.A private equity group.An unexpected opportunity. Before you say yes, or even “maybe,”