We guide you through the process so you can take care of what’s next

Leave a legacy

From exploration to destination, Portage leads you through the entire journey. It begins with an honest discussion about your business now, where you’d like to take it and how you’d like to leave it. We then introduce you to our experts and our process of bringing sellers and buyers together.

This is a casual — yet still confidential — conversation. It doesn’t mean you’re entering into any kind of formal agreement with us, but this is a life-altering decision. In fact, thinking three-to-five years ahead is the best way go.

Are you ready to sell your business?

It may seem like a rudimentary question, but selling your business is an economic and emotional decision and it’s not one to be taken lightly. With years of experience in the field, we understand what’s at play and at stake. It doesn’t matter if you’re selling a mid-sized manufacturing firm or a Fortune 5000 construction company, the same factors come into play.

Step 1 is to begin mapping out a multi-year exit plan.

What is my business worth?

No surprise, this is almost always the first question owners have. As it should be. The answer takes time because your business is unique and our valuation methodology requires us to go deeper. Our team takes pride in evaluating the raw numbers, the competition and the marketplace.

Your business isn’t just a bottom line, it’s a brand and a legacy — those have value, too. And once we land on a number, we stand behind it throughout the selling process.

How does the selling process work?

This part of the journey usually takes 9-12 months — and there are few short cuts. It can be strenuous, but that’s why we carry the load. There are more than 30 critical steps to be traversed, but our team works with you closely. We are transparent and make sure you are comfortable at all times.

Our goal is to keep everything moving forward and working towards a sale that benefits all involved.

Who manages everything?

One of our partners steers the ship, but there’s a crew of specialized professionals dedicated to you and your business. That ‘Deal Team’ handles all the data, puts together a Go-To-Market Strategy, navigates the negotiation process and more.

All of this is happening while you continue to manage your business — that’s Job 1 for you. The team is available whenever needed and provides regular progress reports to make sure you’re aware of every step as it happens.