Between February 1 and March 2, 2025, ExitMap conducted its 5th annual survey of professionals who help business owners plan successful exits. This is the only survey that gathers insight across multiple advisory specialties—offering a wide-angle view of the professionals supporting entrepreneurs like you during one of the most critical transitions of your life.
The survey included 30 questions and was distributed to over 7,000 experienced advisors worldwide. These are professionals with recognized credentials in exit planning, active roles in professional organizations, or who publicly position themselves as specialists in business transition. We received 434 responses from advisors in eight disciplines, representing six countries and 47 U.S. states, resulting in a 99% confidence level and a margin of error of 3.6%. Statistically, the results offer a strong picture of the current state of the exit planning landscape.
What Does This Mean for You as a Business Owner?
Exit planning is no longer something only for ageing Baby Boomers. It has evolved into a strategic planning tool for many owners in Generation X and even younger. Whether you’re planning to exit soon or simply want to be ready for future opportunities, exit planning helps maximize business value and align your business with personal and financial goals.
Since the pandemic, the number of advisors in this field has grown by 70%, with a 23% increase just last year. That expansion reflects increasing demand—but surprisingly, most advisors say they’re busier than ever. In 2024, 88% reported as many or more planning engagements compared to the previous year.
What Are Exit Planning Advisors Saying?
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•70% charge separate fees for exit planning services—this work is specialized and structured.
•96% say exit planning leads to additional support for their clients—like tax strategy, estate planning, and business improvement.
•57% expect to earn over $50,000 this year from exit-related work.
•69% focus on companies valued under $3 million, making their services accessible to smaller businesses.
•80% work with clients remotely, so location isn’t a barrier.
•Over half are 55+ years old, indicating deep professional experience.
Why an Advisor is Essential in Your Exit Strategy
If you’re like most owners, your business is your largest and least liquid asset. The emotional and financial stakes are high when you’re preparing to exit. The growing network of experienced advisors is ready to guide you through this complex process—helping you make informed decisions, increase business value, and ensure that your exit supports your long-term personal and financial goals.
Planning early gives you more strategic options. Unfortunately, many owners delay until a transition is urgent, reducing flexibility and potential outcomes. Advisors also report challenges in coordinating across specialties and maintaining long-term planning engagement, reinforcing how valuable a committed, collaborative advisor can be throughout the journey.
Bottom Line
The transition of Baby Boomer-owned businesses—estimated at $10 to $17 trillion in assets—is driving rapid growth in exit planning. Many of these are family-run or bootstrapped businesses that have grown into significant mid-market companies. Exiting these businesses often requires a team: financial planners, CPAs, attorneys, brokers, bankers, and more.
As the field grows, so does the availability of structured planning tools like those from ExitMap, which advisors use to help owners like you take the first step. If a future transition is anywhere on your horizon, the time to start planning is now—and the first move is finding an experienced advisor to help you do it right.
