Next Phase Strategy Partners is an exit planning and succession planning firm helping small to mid-size business owners prepare for a successful business exit in the next 3–10 years.

Founded in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, by exit strategists Katie Johnson and Darin Williamson, we specialize in exit planning for privately held businesses that want to increase business value, reduce risk, and create optionality for the owner. Many owners know they want to exit their business but lack a clear exit strategy, succession plan, or understanding of their true business valuation. We provide the roadmap.

We are a true exit planning firm—not a broker, investment banker, or transaction-only advisor. Our exit planning process integrates strategic growth planning, leadership alignment, operational scalability, and owner exit readiness into one cohesive, executable plan. The goal is simple: build a business that is transferable, valuable, and not dependent on the owner.

We work closely with business owners and leadership teams to improve financial performance, strengthen management depth, retain key employees, and prepare the business for a third-party sale, family business succession, management buyout, or ESOP transition. Throughout the process, we act as the quarterback of the advisory team—coordinating with CPAs, attorneys, financial advisors, and M&A professionals to ensure alignment and execution.

Exit planning is not about timing the market—it’s about building the right business. Our clients gain clarity, confidence, and control over their future while increasing enterprise value and personal freedom.

If you are a business owner exploring exit planning, succession planning, value acceleration, or M&A preparation, Next Phase Strategy Partners helps you prepare today for the exit you want tomorrow.

Next Phase Strategy Partners

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Next Phase Strategy Partners

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