Wisconsin Business Owners to Share Transition Insights at EPI Forum

The Exit Planning Institute (EPI) Wisconsin Chapter is set to host its Business Owner Forum on September 17, 2026, at Westmoor Country Club in Brookfield, Wisconsin. The event, running from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., will focus on family business owner transitions and actionable ideas for successful exits. This forum comes at a critical time when many baby boomer business owners are nearing retirement, making effective transition planning more important than ever for preserving business value and legacy.

The forum will feature in-depth interviews with three Wisconsin business owners: two who transitioned their companies to the next generation and one who sold their business to a public buyer. These real-world case studies will provide attendees with valuable insights into the challenges and successes of different exit paths. Additionally, five advisors who have built successful exit planning practices will share their expertise, offering a comprehensive view of the planning process.

According to Erik Owen, President of EPI Wisconsin, the forums provide a confidential space for discussions with local business owners and industry professionals focused on exit planning. He expressed excitement about featuring firsthand accounts from family business owners and expert insights from advisors. The event is designed to benefit both business owners and exit planning professionals, including financial advisors and business consultants. Owners will learn key strategies for transitioning their business and explore available options, while professionals will hear directly from owners who have undertaken leadership and ownership transitions.

The importance of this event cannot be overstated. With nearly 70% of family businesses failing to survive to the second generation and only 10% reaching the third, effective exit planning is crucial for economic stability and community impact. This forum aims to equip attendees with the knowledge to avoid common pitfalls and ensure smoother transitions.

For those interested in attending, more information and registration are available on the EPI website. The Exit Planning Institute, founded in 2005, serves professional business advisors' educational and resource needs through its Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA) credential program, which is widely endorsed globally.