Bill West

Every founder eventually faces the same decision: how do you actually leave the business you built? For most owners, the options narrow down to two real paths — sell to an outside buyer, or transition ownership to your employees through an ESOP. Both can get you to a successful exit. But the two paths differ in ways that aren't obvious until you look at them side by side — in taxes, in timeline, in what happens to the people who helped you build the company, and in how much say you keep after...

Considering an ESOP? Learn what an ESOP trustee does, their fiduciary duties, and when an independent trustee is required.

You worked really hard to build this company from nothing. Late nights, tight budgets, a hundred small decisions that amounted to something concrete. But now you are contemplating passing on the torch. So, how do you make a smooth transition? What happens when you're ready to step away? There comes a time when many business owners contemplate this move; some will follow through while others get stuck thinking, “Where do I begin?” So, you’re not the only one to be at this juncture. Preparing...