EXIT PLANNING
Plan Your Exit Before You Need One
Plan your business exit and maximize value. For business owners planning to exit on their terms in 1-5 years.
Who Exit Planning Is For
Exit Planning is designed for business owners who know they will exit eventually but want to do it on their terms. Whether you are 1 year or 5 years away, the businesses that sell for the highest multiples are the ones that prepare. Our Exit Planning service gives you a roadmap to maximize value and minimize surprises when the time comes.
Our Exit Planning Process
1
Readiness Assessment
Where does your business stand today? We evaluate operations, financials, management depth, and customer concentration.
2
Value Enhancement
Targeted improvements that move the needle on valuation. We focus on the 3-5 changes with the highest ROI.
3
Financial Planning Integration
Work with your wealth advisor and CPA to align business exit timing with personal financial goals.
4
Milestone Timeline
A 12-36 month roadmap with quarterly checkpoints and accountability.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start exit planning?
The best time to start is 2-5 years before you want to exit. This gives you time to enhance value, clean up financials, and prepare the business for a smooth transition. That said, even 12 months of preparation can significantly improve your outcome.
How much does exit planning cost?
Exit Planning engagements vary based on scope and complexity. We discuss pricing transparently in the first meeting. The valuation fee is always credited toward any future Icon engagement.
Do I have to sell my business after exit planning?
No. Exit planning gives you options and clarity. Many clients use the process to enhance value and decide to keep running their business for several more years. The plan is yours regardless.
What if I am not sure I want to sell?
That is exactly who exit planning is for. If you are even thinking about it, the earlier you start preparing, the better your options will be when you are ready. There is no commitment to sell.
Can exit planning help me raise capital instead of selling?
Yes. Many exit planning clients discover that raising capital is a better path than selling. The readiness assessment and valuation apply to both. If capital raising is the right move, we can transition you to Icon Capital.
Other Ways We Help
Sell Your Business
Confidential sell-side M&A advisory built for lower middle market owners.
Raise Capital
Growth capital and acquisition financing for owners who want to scale.
Business Valuations
Know exactly what your business is worth before you make any move.
Related Services
- Icon Exit: Full-service M&A advisory for owners ready to sell
- Business Valuation: Data-driven valuation report to understand what your business is worth
- Icon Command Center: Seven-day strategic sprint for business clarity and direction