Business Owner Strategy Summit: Helping Owners Unlock Value and Maximize Their Exit

On May 27, 2026, I had the privilege of hosting the Business Owner Strategy Summit (BOSS Summit) in Miami—an invitation-only gathering designed specifically for privately held business owners seeking to better understand how to maximize the value of their companies and prepare for a successful future exit. The event brought together a select group of accomplished entrepreneurs and a distinguished panel of M&A, legal, tax, investment banking, private equity, and our wealth planning practice for an interactive day focused on one central theme: helping business owners realize the full potential of what they have built.

For many owners, their business represents their largest asset, yet too few begin planning for a transition or sale early enough to optimize outcomes. The summit was designed to address that challenge by providing practical strategies to increase enterprise value, optimize taxation, improve deal readiness, and align business decisions with long-term personal financial goals. Throughout the day, attendees explored the factors driving current business valuations, what buyers are looking for in today’s M&A environment, and how proactive planning can dramatically impact both transaction value and net after-tax proceeds. Understating the tactical steps in turning a successful business into one of significance was at the core of day.

We were fortunate to have an exceptional group of partners share their expertise. IndustryPro, a leading lower-middle market investment banking group, provided insights into the current M&A landscape and valuation trends. Berger Singerman discussed legal structuring considerations and transaction execution. Aprio CPAs highlighted the importance of Quality of Earnings reviews and tax structuring strategies that can enhance value. Trivest, offered a private equity perspective on founder-friendly transactions and growth recapitalizations, while Monroe Capital discussed flexible capital solutions available to business owners. Andrew Suhkin, Managing Director of and myself, VP of from AGS Wealth Group concluded the educational sessions by demonstrating how coordinated wealth planning, estate planning, and tax mitigation strategies can help owners preserve and maximize the wealth generated from a future sale.

One of the most engaging sessions of the day was a moderated conversation featuring two highly successful entrepreneurs, Jordan Kavana of Vita Kavana and Zaid Rahman, founder of Flex, an AI-native banking platform. Having both experienced successful exits and now leading their next ventures, they shared invaluable lessons learned, common pitfalls to avoid, and insights into how business owners can position themselves for long-term success both before and after a transaction. Their candid discussion provided attendees with a unique opportunity to learn from founders who have successfully navigated the journey many owners aspire to undertake. The conversation reinforced a central theme of the summit: that creating enterprise value and achieving a successful exit requires years of intentional planning, tax optimization, disciplined execution, and the willingness to adapt as opportunities evolve.

One of the summit’s most important messages was that maximizing an exit is not simply about obtaining the highest purchase price. Through proper planning, business owners can often significantly improve their net outcome by implementing tax-efficient structures, estate planning techniques, and coordinated financial strategies well before a transaction occurs. Aligning personal, business, and financial objectives creates a roadmap that helps owners move toward a successful exit with greater confidence and clarity.

Equally valuable was the opportunity for attendees to connect with peers and industry professionals throughout the day. Following the workshop, guests enjoyed networking over appetizers and an open bar while overlooking the Miami skyline before gathering for an intimate private dinner on the second floor of Felice Brickell. The relaxed setting encouraged meaningful dialogue, relationship building, and the exchange of ideas among business owners navigating similar challenges and opportunities.

The Business Owner Strategy Summit was more than an educational event—it is a collaborative forum designed to help business owners take actionable steps toward enhancing value, mitigating taxes, protecting wealth, and ultimately maximizing the success of their eventual exit. By bringing together leading professionals and entrepreneurs who have successfully traveled the path themselves, the summit delivered practical insights and actionable strategies that attendees can implement today to better prepare for tomorrow.

For more questions on the BOSS Summit Series or any other best practices for pre-liquidity exit planning strategies, tax optimization and risk mitigation, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Disclosures:

Opinions expressed are those of AGS Wealth Management of Raymond James and not necessarily those of Raymond James & Associates. Information contained was received from sources believed to be reliable, but accuracy is not guaranteed.

*Raymond James & Associates does not provide tax and accounting services or legal advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional.

JORDAN NIEFELD, CPA, CFP®, CEPA

Vice President, Investments

AGS Wealth Management Group of Raymond James

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