The Exit Planning Institute (EPI), led by CEO Chris Snider, has been recognized with a 2024 Global Recognition Award for its groundbreaking contributions to the field of exit planning. This award acknowledges EPI’s exceptional impact on increasing awareness and education around exit planning, significantly elevating the industry standards.

Milestone Achievements

In the past 18 months, EPI has released its second State of Owner Readiness (SOOR) report. This pivotal milestone highlights the extensive growth in exit planning awareness among business owners across the United States. This comprehensive survey underscores the profession’s expansion, directly attributable to the dedicated efforts of Certified Exit Planning Advisors (CEPAs) certified by EPI. Since 2013, the attention to exit planning has increased fivefold, a testament to the institute’s diligent work promoting the importance of strategic business transitions.

The release of the SOOR report reflects EPI’s commitment to thorough research and comprehensive analysis and demonstrates its excellence in execution. EPI has significantly increased awareness and education on exit planning by disseminating crucial information to business owners nationwide. The surge in educated business owners, from 35 percent in 2013 to 68 percent in 2023, clearly indicates EPI’s strategic initiatives and the impactful work of CEPAs in guiding business owners through successful transitions.

Industry Leadership

EPI’s influence and recognition reached new heights when President Scott Snider was invited to speak before the Small Business Council at the United States Senate in January 2024. This invitation underscored EPI’s thought leadership and dedication to advancing exit planning at the highest levels of government. Snider’s presentation at the Senate highlighted the progress and impact EPI has made in the industry, showcasing its role in shaping policy discussions and promoting best practices on a national scale.

This prestigious invitation further validates EPI’s leadership and influence within the exit planning industry. EPI’s ability to lead impactful initiatives and contribute to policy discussions reflects its commitment to excellence and innovation. By actively engaging with government bodies, EPI continues to elevate the standards and practices within the industry, ensuring that exit planning remains a priority for business owners and policymakers alike.

Commitment to Excellence

The impact of the State of Owner Readiness report reflects the broader achievements that EPI is making within the industry. The heightened awareness and education around exit planning have advanced the profession and contributed to a more informed and prepared business owner community. This progress is evident in the significant increase in owners who have completed a formal pre-transition value enhancement or due diligence project, rising from 14 percent in 2013 to 62 percent in 2023.

EPI’s commitment to excellence is further demonstrated by its impressive growth in certified professionals and revenue. 2022 EPI certified 1,335 CEPAs, which increased to 1,877 in 2023, projecting over 2,600 certifications for 2024. This growth illustrates the growing demand for certified expertise in exit planning. Additionally, EPI’s revenue has grown by over 50 percent in the past two years, highlighting the market’s recognition of the value EPI provides. This financial success underscores EPI’s significant contributions to the field and its ability to drive positive outcomes for the broader economy and society.

Final Words

The Exit Planning Institute has demonstrated exceptional leadership, commitment to excellence, and significant contributions to exit planning. The release of the State of Owner Readiness report, the increased awareness and education on exit planning, and the recognition at the highest levels of government all highlight EPI’s impactful work. The institute’s impressive growth in certified professionals and revenue further solidifies its position as a leader in the industry.

Receiving a 2024 Global Recognition Award is a testament to EPI’s dedication to advancing exit planning and its role in shaping the future of business transitions. EPI’s innovative approach and significant contributions have set new standards in the industry, ensuring business owners are well-prepared for successful transitions. This award recognizes EPI’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its influential role in exit planning.