At Mariner, we specialize in guiding business owners through the complexities of growth and transitions, ensuring long-term success. Our services are designed to support owners in every phase of their business journey, offering custom financial, estate, and tax planning solutions. In collaboration with Woodbridge, a Mariner company, our integrated approach ensures clients maximize value, plan for successful business succession, and secure a lasting financial future.

Key Challenges We Address

As a business owner, you may face several challenges when navigating the path to business growth and eventual transition. Our solutions are tailored to address the most common concerns:

• Understanding the true value of your business
• Navigating the mergers and acquisitions (M&A) process, especially within five years of a potential sale
• Reducing uncertainty surrounding the sale process and preparation
• Staying informed about industry trends and M&A activity
• Knowing how much you need to net from the sale of your business
• Exploring alternative transition strategies and gifting options
• Creating effective estate and tax-saving strategies
• Coordinating advice from multiple advisors without feeling overwhelmed
• Gaining clarity on life and financial planning after selling your business
• Developing a clear plan for generating income post-sale

Our Process: Tailored to Your Needs

At Mariner, education is at the heart of our process. Many of our clients are founders who may only experience one major business transaction in their lives. Whether you’re planning to sell now or in the future, our goal is to help you maximize value and after-tax proceeds, while ensuring the future success of your family and company.

We offer two primary options for business owners, depending on your stage and goals:

Option A: Majority Sale Process & Support

For clients interested in a majority sale, we provide a structured and strategic approach to ensure a smooth transaction and long-term financial stability. Here’s a breakdown of our process:

Before Engagement:

• Information gathering, financial review, and business valuation
• Market assessment and competitive analysis
• Investment banking pitch and deal strategy development

Transaction Execution (150-Day Timeline):

• A dedicated team of 15+ professionals working on your behalf
  • Phase 1: Research and Underwriting – Detailed due diligence and financial modeling
  • Phase 2: Marketing – Identification and outreach to potential buyers
  • Phase 3: Closing – Negotiation, deal structuring, and final execution

Post-Transaction Support:

• Estate planning and wealth transfer guidance
• Tax advisory services and optimization strategies
• Philanthropic and charitable giving opportunities
• Family office services for long-term wealth preservation

Option B: Alternative Strategies

For business owners who aren’t yet ready to exit or are exploring other avenues, we offer insights and introductions to partners who can assist with various strategies, such as:

• Value acceleration and business growth initiatives
• Buy-side advisory and acquisition strategies
• Lending and SBA loans, along with capital raising opportunities
• ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) advisory services
• Family transitions and partner buyouts

Conclusion

Whether you are planning an eventual business sale or exploring alternative strategies, Mariner’s comprehensive solutions are designed to guide you through each step of the process. Our goal is to ensure that business owners not only maximize the value of their businesses but also secure financial success and lasting wealth for the future.