BUSINESS EXIT ASSESSMENT

On a scale of 1-5, with 1 being the lowest and 5 being highest, please indicate your level of preparedness for a future exit.

1)Not prepared, 2) Slightly Prepared, 3) Neutral, 4) Prepared, 5) Very Prepared

    1. Exit Path or Successor

    I have clearly identified my exit path and future successor for my business.

    2. Business Value

    Financial Roadmap

    I have developed the value of my business based on adjusted EBITDA and have benchmarked value according to industry standards.

    3. Business Exit Plan

    My advisors and I have developed a comprehensive written exit plan with actionable steps and an execution timeline.

    4. Value Drivers

    Our top three Value Drivers, which generate most of our bottom line-profits, have been identified and developed to maximize enterprise value.

    5. Executive Compensation Program

    We have implemented a formal incentive program tied to company and employee performance, with formulas, benchmarking, and periodic reviews.

    6. Employee Performance

    We have designed and implemented an executive compensation program to retain and incentivize key employees based on their value to the company.

    7. Asset Protection

    We have implemented a comprehensive asset protection plan, including safeguarding intellectual property and other assets.

    8. Tax Minimization*

    My advisors and I have developed a tax reduction strategy to help minimize the erosion of my net worth due to income taxes, capital gain taxes and estate/gift taxes for my business and personal assets.

    9. Income Needs

    I have properly assessed my personal after-tax income requirements and know the minimum acceptable sales price that I require to maintain my desired lifestyle.

    10. Communication Plan

    We have developed a formal communication strategy to engage stakeholders, reduce disruption, and prevent information leaks during the transition process.

    11. Exit Planning Team

    I have built an experienced team of professionals to advise me and my management team throughout the exit process, with specific expertise in selling a business like mine.

    12. Company Culture

    We have cultivated a high-performing company culture; employee morale is high, employees are motivated and in good spirits for a future company transition.

    13. Exit Obstacles

    I have periodic meetings with my advisors where we have identified all potential exit obstacles and implemented strategies to proactively address these challenges.

    14. Corporate Governance

    We have worked diligently over the years and have maintained highly accurate and up-to-date books and records, including corporate documents and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

    15. Intangible Capital

    I know the value of the intangible capital and intellectual property assets of my company and have a strategy to increase and monetize its value, which includes our brand and customer loyalty.

    16. Risk Management

    My advisors and I have identified and mitigated pre-exit risks, such as corporate and employee liabilities and have the correct insurance coverage prior to my exit.

    17. Due Diligence

    We are fully prepared for prospective buyer due diligence, utilizing a formal checklist that addresses financial, operational, and legal aspects of the business.

    18. Financial Controls and KPIs

    We have established robust financial controls and key performance indicators to monitor and sustain business performance.

    19. Corporate Finance

    I have built an effective corporate finance team that has reviewed my business capital needs and structure and have the necessary financing for growth.

    20. Financial Roadmap

    I have a personal financial roadmap that integrates with my business exit strategy to ensure alignment of personal and business goals.

    * I understand I also should consult with a tax professional, such as a CPA, regarding my taxes and tax situations