The Exit Planning Institute (EPI) Wisconsin Chapter is set to host its annual Business Owner Forum on September 17, from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Westmoor Country Club in Brookfield, Wisconsin. The event aims to provide business owners and exit planning professionals with actionable strategies for successful business transitions, with a particular focus on family-owned enterprises.
This year's forum will feature in-depth interviews with three Wisconsin business owners who have recently navigated the complex process of exiting their businesses. Two of these owners transitioned their companies to the next generation, while a third chose to sell to a public buyer. These firsthand accounts will offer attendees a rare glimpse into the challenges and successes of real-world transition scenarios.
Erik Owen, President of EPI Wisconsin, emphasized the value of the forum's format. "EPI Wisconsin's Business Owner Forums provide a confidential space for discussions with local business owners and industry professionals focused on exit planning," he said. "This year, we are excited to feature in-depth interviews with three family business owners who recently exited their businesses along with expert insights from five advisors who have built successful exit planning practices."
The forum is designed to benefit two distinct audiences. Business owners will learn key strategies for successfully transitioning their businesses and explore the various options available to them, whether that involves passing the company to family members, selling to employees, or pursuing an external sale. Exit planning professionals—including financial advisors, business consultants, and other specialists—will gain valuable insights from hearing directly from owners who have undertaken leadership and ownership transitions, helping them better serve their own clients.
The event underscores the growing importance of exit planning in today's business landscape. With a significant number of baby boomer business owners approaching retirement, the need for effective transition strategies has never been more critical. According to the EPI, many businesses are unprepared for ownership changes, and forums like this aim to bridge that gap by providing education and networking opportunities.
For those interested in attending, more information and registration details are available on the EPI site (note: link is illustrative based on source). The forum promises to be an invaluable experience for anyone involved in the future of business ownership.
