ESOP Advisory Services

Custom Employee Stock Ownership Plan Formations

We don't believe in cookie-cutter ESOPs. Our multidisciplinary team builds custom strategies, focused on creating value for all stakeholders, including business owners, plan participants, and their communities. From structuring responsive plans to completing efficient transactions, CSG has helped hundreds of middle market companies across all industries.

Our ESOP advisors also work with established, employee-owned businesses to optimize their plans and help them grow through strategic acquisitions.

Unmatched Financial Reach

CSG secures more third-party financing than any other ESOP investment bank. That includes commercial loans and private credit.

In the last five years alone, our advisors have negotiated and closed financing packages with over 50 institutions and funds.

Learn How ESOPs are Financed
ESOP Financing Partner Logos

Quarterbacking Leveraged ESOP Transactions


Our approach is rooted in quantifiable analysis and high-touch service. That includes creating rigorous feasibility studies, performing extensive due diligence, collaborating with our clients’ trusted advisors, and maintaining a grounded approach to transaction execution.

Goal Assessment

Once stakeholders understand the pros and cons of employee ownership, we seek to appreciate the financial drivers, legacy considerations, and risk tolerances of all parties. This can help clarify the potential fit of an ESOP strategy.

We listen and learn the motivations and needs behind a potential ESOP.

Financial Analysis

Our ESOP feasibility studies are bespoke, objective, and comprehensive. All analysis is performed in-house in order to deliver consistent insights on fair market valuation, optimal structures, estate planning considerations, and transaction alternatives.

We provide clients with data and insights to make informed decisions

Deal Structuring

Once stakeholders understand the viability and costs of a potential ESOP strategy, we start the painstaking process of building a transaction. Following an extensive due diligence process, our advisors finalize a deal's structure and coordinate activities with all relevant parties.

We craft unique ESOPs that reflect the goals of all stakeholders

Capital Raise

It takes unique expertise and an extensive network to secure optimal ESOP financing. We draft a best-in-class confidential information memorandum (CIM) and run a competitive process with commercial lenders nationwide to obtain comprehensive loan offers and negotiate favorable terms.

We gain comprehsive financial solutions

Negotiation

An ESOP transaction isn't complete until a sponsor and a trustee agree on a price and plan terms. Our experts lead all negotiations on a company's behalf and oversee the finalization of transaction documents and credit agreements.

We take a grounded approach to coordinate partners, drive transactions, and close deals

An ESOP Case Study

Join Larry Kaplan, CSG’s Founder and Managing Partner, for a review of the leveraged ESOP feasibility, structuring, and financing process in this brief video.

Based on real client interaction, this case study highlights the key considerations and strategies behind a successful employee stock ownership plan transaction.

Solutions for Employee-Owned Companies


In addition to building employee stock ownership plans, our ESOP experts routinely advise established, employee-owned companies on a range of investment banking matters, including plan modifications and third-party sales.

Gear and Wrench

 

Plan Maintenance

To address companies' changing needs, we facilitate a variety of ESOP transactions including secondary sales, share buybacks, and plan terminations.

MAINTENANCE OPTIONS

Capital Advisory

Companies seeking to fund acquisitions, support operations, or restructure debt count on us to help secure bank financing from our network of investors and lenders.

Money Stack

 

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Mergers & Acquisitions

When existing ESOP companies seek a potential sale or M&A strategies for liquidity, asset monetization, or growth, they turn to CSG and our affiliated broker-dealer, Synergy Capital I.