Set the stage for transition in your small business at upcoming roundtable event
April 15, 2025
This event listing is sponsored by The Next Chapter.
Learn how to optimize your business before a sale and how to strategize for a seamless transition at an upcoming roundtable in Sioux Falls.
The Next Chapter – Succession and Exit Strategies for Business Owners will be from 4 to 6 p.m. April 24 at the Canopy by Hilton in downtown Sioux Falls.
Moderated by entrepreneur John Meyer, the event features a lineup of expert panelists:
- Marietta Luellen, Bridges Trust.
- Jeffrey Michelson, CohnReznick.
- Barry Sackett, Goosmann Law Firm.
- Robert Schmidt, Bridgepoint Investment Banking.
“This panel was carefully assembled to offer a comprehensive, well-rounded perspective on succession and exit strategies for business owners,” said Barry Sackett, managing partner, business development for Goosmann Law Firm.
“Each panelist was selected for their deep background in a specific, essential area of the transition process — from legal and financial due diligence to investment banking, trust planning and legacy building. We wanted to ensure attendees would hear from seasoned professionals who not only understand the technical side of selling a business but also the emotional and strategic elements involved.”
As moderator, Meyer also brings the perspective of a founder “who has been through the entire process of selling a business,” Sackett added. “His background and first-hand experience will help facilitate meaningful conversation among experts who’ve each guided countless clients through their own next chapter.”
Participants will:
- Gain actionable insights into structuring a smooth business transition.
- Learn how to optimize business value before the sale.
- Connect with industry professionals and like-minded peers.
- Consider strategies on how to manage wealth post-sale.
“There’s a significant and growing need for guidance in succession planning and exit strategy — especially as more business owners approach retirement or consider their next chapter,” Sackett said.
“Selling a business isn’t just a financial transaction — it’s a deeply personal and often once-in-a-lifetime decision that impacts not only the owner but employees, customers and family. We have also brought in perspective from investment bankers and professionals who routinely deal with private equity transactions that are becoming more prevalent in the Sioux Falls area.”
Business owners, entrepreneurs and stakeholders who are interested in understanding how to plan for their business’ future sale and transition are a good fit for the event, he added. It’s geared toward people who might be thinking about selling or making a major transition in their business within the next one to five years.
“What we’ve found is that many business owners aren’t sure where to start — or they wait too long to begin planning,” Sackett said.
“That’s why educational opportunities like this are so important. Bringing together legal, financial, investment banking and trust professionals in one room helps create clarity, direction and confidence around the process. The demand for this kind of strategic, cross-disciplinary guidance is only going to grow.”
The hope is that attendees walk away with clarity, confidence and a solid starting point, he added.
“Whether someone is five years away from selling or just starting to think about succession, our goal is to demystify the process and provide practical insights they can apply immediately,” Sackett said.
“We want business owners to understand that a successful transition doesn’t happen by accident — it takes planning, strategy and the right team. We also hope they leave feeling empowered, knowing they’re not alone and that there are experienced professionals ready to help them protect what they’ve built and craft a legacy they’re proud of.”
