State of M&A Conference 2025

Scott Bushkie,

CBI M&AMI, CM&AP

National 2025 Selling Your Business Study Findings

Scott Bushkie is the Managing Partner and Founder of Cornerstone Business Services, a boutique M&A firm specializing in the lower-middle market. In his keynote, Scott will reveal the 2025 results from a commissioned national study surveying 750 business owners with at least $5M in annual revenue. This research dives deep into business owners’ thoughts, fears and expectations when it comes to selling their businesses. You can expect to have common myths challenged, learn practical truths, and find out what business owners really think about the sale process.

Corey Schroer, CFA

2025 Economic Outlook

Corey is a member of the Investment Strategy Group (ISG) at Goldman Sachs. Corey focuses on strategic asset allocation, tactical asset allocation, and portfolio construction for Private Wealth Management clients. In his keynote, Corey will address the current economic and financial market backdrop, the outlook for the year ahead and how it may affect M&A. 

Jayne McQuillan, CPA, MBA, CEPA

Beyond the 30%: How Strategic Planning Unlocks a Successful Business Sale

Did you know that only 20-30% of businesses that go to market successfully sell? The primary reason for failure isn’t lack of interested buyers – it’s lack of preparation. In this session, we’ll explore why proper exit and transition planning is the key to maximizing business value and ensuring a successful sale. We’ll cover:

• The critical role of succession planning in avoiding last-minute deal breakdowns
• How a well-developed business plan enhances buyer confidence and valuation
• Practical strategies to make your business more attractive to acquirers
• Key steps business owners should take years in advance to improve sale outcomes
• Real-world client case studies that demonstrate how preparation increases profitability, ignites scalable growth, and build millions in business value.

Whether you’re a business owner planning your future or an advisor supporting clients through the M&A process, this session will provide actionable insights to improve success rates and maximize value.

Bill Bradley

Aaron Faulkner

Acquisitions: What Works and What Doesn’t

This will be a hands-on look at deals that have gotten done and what the structure has looked like to make them successful.  Key points that the bank, buyer and sellers have gotten comfortable with to push the deal over the finish line.

Terry Gerbers

Joseph Miotke

Chris Scherer

Identifying and Addressing Relevant Issues with Due Diligence in M&A

Lisa Cribben, CPA, ABV, ASA, CMA

Chris Lerario, MBA, CVA

Bridging the Gap: Practical Structure, Financial and Tax Considerations for Rollovers and Earn-Outs

This presentation will explore the key structuring considerations and common features of rollover equity and earn-outs. We will discuss the rationale for considering these structures, the complexities involved in their implementation, and common challenges sellers may face. Additionally, we will examine the tax implications for both buyers and sellers to help navigate these transactions effectively.

Brady Paschke, CPA, CMA

Brannon Guyette, CIMA

Leslie Lauer, CEPA, CFP, ChFC