An exit strategy isn’t just the end goal—it’s an integral part of building a successful startup. Planning for your exit from the beginning sends a clear message to investors: you’re motivated to grow, scale, and eventually generate returns. Whether you’re aiming for a strategic acquisition, private equity buyout, or IPO, here’s how to approach your exit strategically.
1. Plan Your Exit from the Beginning
Savvy investors want to know you’ve considered how they’ll realize a return on their investment. A clear exit strategy demonstrates that you’re serious about scaling your business with purpose.
Why this matters:
- Inspires investor confidence: Investors need assurance that you have a roadmap to maximize their returns.
- Guides strategic decisions: Having an exit in mind influences how you scale, structure your team, and make key financial decisions.
Pro tip: Include potential exit scenarios in your pitch deck, backed by data on comparable companies and market trends.
2. Knowing when to exit
Deciding when to exit your business is one of the most challenging decisions a founder can face. While every situation is unique, there are key signs that it might be time to consider a sale:
When to sell:
- The company is facing financial distress.
- The founder feels ready to pursue new opportunities.
- The company’s growth has surpassed the founder’s leadership capabilities.
- An unsolicited inbound opportunity arises that aligns with the company’s values and legacy.
Pro tip:
Seek honest feedback from your advisors and board. Surrounding yourself with “yes” people can cloud your judgment and cause you to miss critical signs that it’s time to move on. Objective, constructive input is invaluable during this pivotal decision.
3. Hire an investment banker & lawyers
When it’s time to exit, don’t cut corners on professional help. An experienced investment banker with expertise in your industry can be invaluable, especially for deals over a certain threshold.
Why you need the right advisors:
- Maximize deal value: Investment bankers know how to position your company, find qualified buyers, and negotiate favorable terms.
- Navigate legal complexity: Lawyers ensure your transaction complies with regulations and minimizes risks.
- Save time and stress: Experienced professionals streamline the process, allowing you to focus on running the business until the deal closes.
Pro tip: For deals exceeding $10 million, consider hiring an investment banker rather than a business broker. Their expertise and network often result in better outcomes.
4. Consider your exit options
Not all exits are created equal. The right path depends on your company’s size, industry, and growth stage.
Popular exit options include:
- Executive investor: Selling to an individual investor looking to take over leadership.
- Strategic acquisition: Merging with a larger company that can leverage your product, customer base, or IP.
- Private equity buyout: Selling to a private equity firm that specializes in scaling companies like yours.
- Initial Public Offering (IPO): Selling shares of the company to the public on a stock exchange, providing liquidity for founders, employees, and investors.
- Secondary sale: The founder sells a portion of their shares directly to another investor, such as a VC or angel.
- Management buyout: The startup’s management team purchases the company, often with financial backing from investors or lenders.
- VC takeover: Allowing a venture capital firm to buy out other investors or acquire the entire company.
Pro tip: Strategic acquisitions often have the most favorable outcomes for founders in terms of valuation, resources and potential legacy preservation. Evaluate the cultural fit and long-term goals of potential buyers. The wrong match can harm your team, brand, or legacy.
5. Consider the legal holding period with the SEC
If your exit involves selling securities or shares, be aware of SEC regulations. There’s often a legal holding period before the transaction is finalized (e.g. Rule 144).
Why this matters:
- Compliance: Failing to adhere to SEC guidelines can delay or jeopardize your exit.
- Planning your timeline: The holding period can affect when you receive your payout and when your investors see returns.
Pro tip: Consult legal and financial advisors early to ensure your transaction meets all regulatory requirements.
6. Plan for your ownership at exit
Exiting founders often underestimate the impact of dilution on their ownership stake. Each funding round affects how much equity you’ll retain at the time of sale.
Key considerations:
- Factor in dilution: Plan your funding rounds carefully, keeping future exits in mind.
- Understand your payout: Know how liquidation preferences, earn-outs, and other terms affect what you’ll walk away with.
Pro tip: Use a cap table management tool like Carta to visualize how future raises will impact your ownership stake.
7. Decide on your role post-acquisition
Most acquirers want founders to stay on for a transition period, typically 12-18 months. Deciding how involved you’ll be post-acquisition is a critical part of exit planning.
Questions to ask yourself:
- Are you willing to stay on as an advisor or executive?
- What does the retention package look like?
- Will your vision align with the acquiring company’s goals?
Pro tip: Be clear on your expectations during negotiations. Retention agreements should include performance metrics, duration, and compensation details.
Final thoughts
A well-thought-out exit strategy isn’t just about financial gain—it’s about ensuring your company’s legacy, rewarding your investors, and setting yourself up for your next venture. By planning early, assembling the right team, and considering all your options, you can navigate this process with confidence and maximize the value of your exit.