miceo

Designing the Future Together: DBI Becomes Employee-Owned

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 14:00:29 GMT

Designed by people. Built by teamwork. Owned by employees.

LANSING, Mich. — Great workplaces don't happen by chance; they're designed. Now, DBI has designed something even more meaningful: a future owned by its employees. For more than 40 years, DBI has been shaped by the people behind its work. The company’s ESOP transition provides a formal ownership structure that recognizes that contribution while supporting DBI’s continued presence in Mid-Michigan.

George Snyder and Steve Klaver recently celebrated their retirement with friends, family, clients, and DBI’s new employee-owners.

As colleagues gathered to mark the occasion and honor Snyder and Klaver’s legacy, they recognized the next chapter they all helped make possible. To honor Snyder and Klaver’s legacy, they recognized the next chapter they all helped make possible. Instead of handing the company to an outside buyer, Snyder and Klaver thoughtfully placed its future in the hands of the 50+ employees. These owners will continue designing inspiring workplaces, serving clients, and carrying DBI's values forward for generations to come.

DBI , a leading provider of workplace design, furniture, and architectural solutions, has officially transitioned to employee ownership through the establishment of an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), ensuring the company's future remains in the hands of the employees who have helped build its success.

For more than 40 years, DBI has designed spaces for organizations where people can do their best work and thrive. Now, it's designing a future where its employees do, too. Founded in 1984, DBI has spent more than four decades helping businesses, schools, healthcare organizations, and government agencies create innovative and functional workspaces across Michigan.

The company employs over 50 people and operates from its downtown Lansing showroom, Delhi Township warehouse, and The Office Outlet , serving clients throughout Mid-Michigan.

The transition was supported through the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) through its Employee Ownership Pilot Program . The Michigan Center for Employee Ownership (MICEO) administers the program, which provides education, technical assistance, and funding to help business owners explore employee ownership as a succession strategy. The program is funded by LEO and administered by MICEO to local businesses to transition to employee ownership to help business owners choose employee ownership as a succession strategy.

"The LEO and MICEO Michigan's Transition to Employee Ownership Pilot Program helped make this process more accessible as we explored what employee ownership could mean for DBI. For a business owner, this is a major decision, and having the right resources and people involved made a meaningful difference." — George Snyder, President & CEO, DBI Business Interiors

By becoming employee-owned, DBI is creating a pathway for long-term business continuity while giving employees a direct stake in the company's future success. Employee ownership strengthens local businesses by retaining jobs, preserving company culture, and building wealth for employees over time.

DBI has long been recognized as an industry leader in workplace solutions. In 2025, the company earned Haworth's Best In Class Dealer designation for the 14th consecutive year , placing it among an elite group of dealers nationwide recognized for excellence in customer service, operational performance, and workplace innovation.

"Employee ownership is one of the most effective ways to preserve successful Michigan businesses while rewarding the employees who helped build them," said Roy Messing, Executive Director of the Michigan Center for Employee Ownership. "DBI's transition demonstrates how thoughtful succession planning can strengthen companies, protect jobs, and keep businesses rooted in their communities for generations to come."

Michigan faces a growing wave of business owner retirements, with thousands of privately held companies expected to transition ownership over the next decade. Through the Transition to Employee Ownership Pilot Program, LEO and MICEO are helping business owners evaluate employee ownership as a sustainable exit strategy that keeps businesses locally owned and employees invested in long-term success.

About DBI Business Interiors

Founded in 1984, DBI provides workplace strategy, interior design, office furniture, architectural solutions, installation, and ongoing workplace support for businesses, healthcare organizations, educational institutions, and government agencies throughout Michigan. Headquartered in Lansing, DBI is an award-winning Haworth dealer and has been recognized as a Best In Class Dealer for 14 consecutive years.

About the Michigan Center for Employee Ownership

The Michigan Center for Employee Ownership (MICEO) is a statewide nonprofit dedicated to educating business owners, employees, advisors, and community leaders about employee ownership. Through outreach, technical assistance, and strategic partnerships, MICEO helps preserve Michigan businesses, retain jobs, and build wealth through employee ownership.

Links to press/press releases to be added:

WILX: DBI becomes 100% employee-owned under Michigan pilot program

LEO Press Release: https://www.michigan.gov/leo/news/2026/07/23/mi-employee-ownership-pilot-program-celebrates-2nd-business-transition-to-employee-ownership

July 2026 Newsletter | 1st Edition

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 13:42:52 GMT

Announcing the 1st LEO-funded EO Pilot ESOP: North Arrow ABA, Must Family Owners Exit After an ESOP? and the latest EO news curated for you…

MICEO UPDATE

MICHIGAN'S FIRST EMPLOYEE-OWNED ABA FIRM

Under the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity ’s (LEO’s) Transition to Employee Ownership Pilot Program – in partnership with MICEO – North Arrow ABA has become the first Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) provider in Michigan to transition to employee ownership. Effective July 2026, the North Arrow ABA’s more than 180 employees will become employee-owners through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).

Rather than pursuing a traditional sale, North Arrow ABA chose employee ownership to preserve its culture, reward its employees, and ensure long-term stability for the organization and the families it serves. With eight locations across Michigan and plans for continued growth, North Arrow ABA is demonstrating how employee ownership can strengthen healthcare organizations while creating wealth-building opportunities for employees.

With thousands of Michigan business owners nearing retirement—many without an exit plan—LEO’s Transition to Employee Ownership Pilot Program helps businesses create their own buyers—preserving jobs, community roots, and operational continuity. Click HERE to learn more – or fill out an intake form . Even if you don't qualify for funding, MICEO will point you in the right direction for your business and find partners who can help guide you through this process.

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP FAQs

MUST FAMILY OWNERS EXIT AFTER AN ESOP?

ESOPs can be an attractive option for family-owned businesses. Family members can still run the company, even if the company becomes 100% employee owned, but many family-owned businesses keep some of the ownership in the family and some in the ESOP. To help you decide if an ESOP is right for your business, create an initial business plan that factors in legal costs, the costs to buy the shares, and the company's cash flow. Then have a valuation done to determine how much your stock is worth and the practicality of selling these shares. Learn more HERE .

At any point in the process, you might want to talk to other businesses like yours that have made the transition.

If you'd like to learn more about transitioning your business to an employee ownership model, check out the resources on MICEO’s website or reach out to Roy today!

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP RESOURCES

LEARN MORE ABOUT EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP

In The U.S., Employee-Owned Trusts Enter The Exit Space – This Forbes article discusses how EOTs are now gaining traction in the U.S. Unlike an ESOP, an EOT skips the tax advantages but offers lower setup costs, more flexible governance, and a structure designed to keep the business intact and mission-driven in the long run.

Purpose Trusts and EOTs: Expanding the Ownership Conversation – This episode of the Owners at Work podcast discusses the growing momentum behind Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs) as a flexible, mission-driven alternative for business succession that helps founders preserve their company's values, reward employees, and enure long-term stewardship.

Why Selling to an ESOP Costs Less than Selling to Another Buyer – A new NCEO paper finds that selling a business to an ESOP typically costs between 2% and 4% of the transaction value, compared with 4% to 9% for sales to other buyers. Learn why an ESOP can be a more cost-effective succession option for many business owners.

North Arrow ABA Makes History as Michigan’s First Employee-Owned Applied Behavior Analysis Firm

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 18:19:15 GMT

Pioneering a New Path for the Behavioral Health Industry

Leading a New Era of Ownership in Healthcare

North Arrow ABA has spent years caring for others, and now they are building a future where their employees are cared for as owners - literally.

In July 2026, North Arrow ABA will make history as the first Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) firm in Michigan to transition to employee ownership through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).

With more than 180 employees across Michigan, North Arrow ABA’s transition represents a significant milestone not only for the company but for the broader mental and behavioral health industry. By choosing employee ownership, North Arrow ABA is creating a new model for how organizations can grow, preserve culture, and invest in the people who make their mission possible.

North Arrow provides ABA services at their 8 locations and plans to expand throughout the state. Making them a household name for the future of ABA services and the employee ownership movement alike.

The transition is being supported by the Michigan Center for Employee Ownership (MICEO) Transition to Employee Ownership pilot program, a statewide initiative of the Department of Labor & Economic Opportunity (LEO) designed to help Michigan businesses explore employee ownership as a succession strategy and long-term economic development tool.

Building a Future Designed to Last

For North Arrow ABA’s leadership team, the decision to become employee-owned stemmed from firsthand observations of what is happening across the behavioral health industry.

“The MICEO program really helped accelerate our transition to employee ownership,” said Mike Dow, North Arrow’s Executive Director. “We’ve always felt that an ESOP was the best fit for our business model, our culture, and our community. MICEO and LEO helped lead us to that goal, to the benefit of both our employees and the clients we serve.”

Rather than pursuing a traditional sales model, North Arrow ABA chose a path focused on continuity, culture, and the future of its employees. Rooting its employees long term in their communities, providing economic resilience for generations of workers to come.

Employee ownership allows the company to preserve the values that helped build the organization while creating a shared investment in its future success. With North Arrow's ownership mentality, becoming employee-owned was the next natural step.

“This milestone reflects growing awareness among Michigan business owners that employee ownership can be a practical and successful succession strategy,” said MICEO Executive Director Roy Messing . “We’re excited to see so many companies taking meaningful steps toward employee ownership and are proud to celebrate North Arrow ABA as the first company to complete a transition through the program. Employee ownership helps preserve local businesses, reward the employees who contribute to their success and create stronger, more resilient communities.”

Ownership Starts With People

ABA providers play a critical role in supporting children and families through evidence-based behavioral services. For North Arrow ABA, the people delivering that care are at the center of the company’s success.

By becoming employee-owned, team members will have the opportunity to build wealth through ownership while having a stronger connection to the long-term success of the organization.

The ESOP model creates a structure in which employees are not only contributors to the company’s mission but also owners of the future they are helping create.

A Michigan Company Leading National Change

North Arrow ABA’s transition is a powerful example of how employee ownership can create new opportunities across a wide range of industries.

While ESOPs have long been established in manufacturing, construction, professional services, and other sectors, North Arrow ABA is helping demonstrate that employee ownership can be a solution for growing healthcare and behavioral health organizations as well.

Their transition sends a message to business owners across Michigan and beyond: succession planning does not have to mean losing culture, jobs, or the legacy built over years of hard work.

Building the Future of Employee Ownership in Michigan

The Michigan Center for Employee Ownership is proud to support companies like North Arrow ABA as they explore employee ownership as a path forward. Showcasing a rooted mission, the Transition to Employee Ownership Pilot is giving Michigan businesses access to the education, resources, and connections needed to navigate successful ownership transitions.

North Arrow ABA’s story represents more than a company milestone; it represents a shift in how businesses can think about growth, succession, and shared success.

As North Arrow ABA begins its next chapter as an employee-owned company, it is proving that ownership can be a powerful tool for strengthening companies, communities, and the people who make them thrive.

Additional Press Releases

North Arrow's Press Release: https://www.northarrowaba.com/esop

Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity Press Release: https://www.michigan.gov/leo/news/2026/06/30/governor-whitmer-celebrates-michigan-employee-ownership-pilot-momentum

June 2026 Newsletter

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 04:10:47 GMT

Private equity consolidation in the trades, Spotlight on 21st Century Plastics Corporation, and the latest EO news curated for you…

MICEO UPDATES

PRIVATE EQUITY CONSOLIDATION IN THE TRADES

Have you noticed that private equity firms are increasingly acquiring and consolidating businesses in industries such as HVAC, plumbing, electrical, roofing, pest control, and landscaping? These sectors are attractive to investors because they provide essential services, enjoy steady demand, and remain highly fragmented, with many independently owned companies.

As business owners approach retirement, private equity firms often present themselves as a ready-made succession solution. Their strategy typically involves combining multiple businesses, investing in systems and operations, and creating larger organizations that can achieve greater scale and efficiency.

For owners considering their future, this trend highlights the importance of exploring ALL available transition options. While a sale to a private equity-backed buyer may be the right fit for some, employee ownership offers another path – one that can preserve a company's legacy, maintain local ownership, and reward the employees who helped build the business.

FOCUS ON MICHIGAN

21ST CENTURY PLASTICS CORPORATIONS

21st Century Plastics Corporation is a 100% employee-owned, custom thermoplastics injection molding company located in Potterville, Michigan. Established in 1988, 21st Century Plastics Corp is an expert in manufacturing products and assemblies for the seating industry, including seating for cinema, auditorium, stadium, and office furniture. 21st Century Plastics Corp also molds products for the industrial, building, and construction industries, as well as sewer system and fire sprinkler system components. When its founder retired in 2010, 21st Century Plastics Corp also became an ESOP as the company was sold to its employees, making it 100% employee-owned. The motivation behind this decision was largely to keep the company in Potterville, as well as a desire to share the company's success with those who helped build it. Learn more: https://www.21stcpc.com/

If you'd like to learn more about transitioning your business to an employee ownership model, check out the resources on MICEO's website or reach out to Roy today!

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP FAQS

HOW WOULD AN ESOP WORK AT YOUR COMPANY?

Are you interested in adopting an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP)? The National Center for Employee Ownership (NCEO) has an interactive tool to explore employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) for those wondering how an ESOP would work at their company. It begins with an overview, then branches into specifics based on how you answer questions about your company type, with a few quizzes along the way. You will learn what an ESOP is, why you might want to consider it, how to finance it, how ESOPs are governed, and how it might work given your company structure (C-corp, S-corp, or other). The goal is to clarify whether and how an ESOP would work in your situation and then suggest next steps.

Try out the tool for yourself: https://www.esop.org/education/interactive-introduction-esops.php

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP RESOURCES

LEARN MORE ABOUT EO

Where EO Meets Economic Development w/Michael Darger – This episode of the Owners at Work podcast discusses business succession planning, ownership transition, and the growing importance of preserving locally owned businesses as Baby Boomer owners retire.

New Research Reveals the Missing Link in Employee Ownership – Three bodies of work point to the same conclusion: ownership matters, but how people are managed and engaged matters far more.

The Next Chapter of Business Succession – EO Equals discusses why business owners are exploring EO earlier. Millions of business owners across the country are approaching a major inflection point as they step away from the companies they built and transition to the next chapter of their lives.

The Power of a Partial ESOP – A Partial ESOP allows owners to sell a portion of their business while maintaining independence and company values—unlike private equity or strategic investors, which often bring outside influence and pressure for additional control.

He Bought a 94-Year-Old Business, Then Gave it to the Team – In this episode of the Alternative Exit podcast, learn how, after transitioning a 94-year-old family business to an ESOP, Bob Whalen helped grow the company nearly tenfold and create more than $110M in employee-owner value while building a culture centered on shared success and long-term ownership.

Rutgers' New Employee Ownership Research-to-Practice Hub - Rutgers' Employee Ownership Applied Research Lab is a one-stop hub translating research into practical tools for broad-based employee ownership.

May 2026 Newsletter | 2nd Edition

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 03:57:57 GMT

FREE 6-mo membership to NCEO, Focus on Ziebart International, FREE Registration for ESOP June Conference in OH, and the latest EO news curated for you…

MICEO UPDATES

T he Michigan Center for Employee Ownership (MICEO) is proud to partner with The National Center for Employee Ownership (NCEO) and the Employee Ownership Expansion Network (EOX) to provide employee ownership resources to Michigan business owners.

On NCEO’s resource page for Michigan businesses, you’ll find educational guides, toolkits, calculators, and guides on ESOPs, Employee Ownership Trusts, and other ownership models to help you explore employee ownership as a succession and wealth-building strategy.

Plus — through this partnership – you get a 6-month NCEO membership for FREE! NCEO is a trusted source of objective, reliable information on employee ownership and building an ownership culture. Take advantage of this limited-time opportunity to unlock expert resources, connect with peers, and discover if employee ownership is the right fit for your business or clients.

Learn more and claim your free membership today: Click Here To Learn More!

FOCUS ON MICHIGAN

ZIEBART INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION

Founded in 1959, Ziebart International Corporation became employee-owned in 1994, fostering long-term employee dedication through this structure. Ziebart — based in Troy, MI — provides premium automotive appearance and protection services to extend your vehicle's lifespan. Clean, disinfect, enhance, and protect with the highest quality products and services, exceptional workmanship, and knowledgeable staff. Backed by 65 years of experience, Ziebart is a worldwide franchisor of automotive detailing, protection, and accessories, providing exceptional customer service and the highest-quality products to exceed all your expectations. Learn more about Ziebart International Corporation HERE!

UPCOMING EVENTS

FREE ESOP CONFERENCE IN OH JUNE 15-16

C alling all business owners! The National Center for Employee Ownership (NCEO) is offering Michigan business owners the opportunity to attend their “Is an ESOP Right for You” conference for FREE (a savings of more than $500).

What: NCEO’s “Is an ESOP Right for You?” conference

When: June 15-16, 2026

Where: Westin Great Southern Columbus, 310 S High Street, Columbus, OH, 43215-4508

This conference is a 1.5-day educational program where attendees learn about the ESOP model through presentations, Q&A sessions, and peer discussions with other business owners exploring similar transition options. Take home the tools you need to make your decision. This conference is for business owners only; no service providers will attend. This seminar is eligible for 7.5 CPE hours and 7.5 SHRM hours. To receive your FREE registration code, contact Eva Lianos at elianos@nceo.org

This is a great educational opportunity for business owners in Michigan who are currently exploring (or soon may) an ESOP as they consider their ownership exit strategy!

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP RESOURCES

LEARN MORE ABOUT EO

Business Owner Perspectives on Selling to Employees – Rutgers University interviewed 23 business owners who chose employee ownership over a private equity buyout or family transfer – and what they found is fascinating. Their motivations, lessons learned, and what they wish they'd known sooner.

How Worker Co-ops Work – Worker co-ops have a rich tradition and can operate in various ways. Learn about “How Worker Co-ops Work” on this episode of the How Stuff Works podcast.

Beyond the Exit: A New Path for Family Business Succession – Kristen Oliveri of Wealth Reimagined , in this Q&A with Daniel Goldstein, breaks down how ESOPs work, why they’re gaining momentum right now, and why more families are beginning to see employee ownership not just as a transaction, but as a thoughtful transition.

May 2026 Newsletter | 1st Edition

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 03:38:41 GMT

Listen to Business Transition & Profit Sharing Webinar Recordings: Are There ESOP Tax Incentives for Employees? FREE Registration for ESOP June Conference in OH June, and the latest EO news curated for you…

MICEO UPDATES

BUSINESS TRANSITION & PROFIT SHARING WEBINAR RECORDINGS

Missed one of our recent webinars? Recordings are now available for two timely conversations designed to help business owners think strategically about the future of their companies and employees.

MICEO’s April 15th webinar – What Every Business Owner Should Know About Exit Planning – is now available on demand. Learn key considerations for succession planning, ownership transition options, and steps business owners can take now to prepare for the future.

Also available on demand is MICEO’s May 13th webinar – Smart Profit Share: The Simplest Form of Employee Ownership – which is about a simple, practical approach to building an ownership culture that any small business can begin today.

Whether you’re just beginning to explore employee ownership or actively planning for the next chapter of your business, these recordings offer practical insights and actionable ideas you can revisit anytime.

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP FAQS

ARE THERE ESOP TAX INCENTIVES FOR EMPLOYEES?

An Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) offers employees tax incentives primarily through tax-deferred growth and special tax treatment on distributions. Employees do not pay taxes on company contributions or asset growth until they receive a payout, typically upon leaving the company. To maintain the tax-deferred status of their payout, employees can roll over the funds into an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or a retirement plan with a new employer. This is a common way to avoid immediate taxes on a distribution. Employees can also roll over a distribution into a Roth IRA. In this case, taxes on the distribution are paid upfront, and future withdrawals in retirement will be tax-free as long as Roth IRA rules are followed.

Learn more: https://www.nceo.org/articles/esop-tax-incentives-contribution-limits

UPCOMING EVENTS

FREE ESOP CONFERENCE IN OH JUNE 15-16

Details:

What: NCEO’s “Is an ESOP Right for You?” conference

When: June 15-16, 2026

Where: Westin Great Southern Columbus, 310 S High Street, Columbus, OH, 43215-4508

This is a great educational opportunity for business owners in Michigan who are currently exploring (or soon may) an ESOP as they consider their ownership exit strategy!

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP RESOURCES

LEARN MORE ABOUT EO

Employee Ownership Tax Considerations: What Your CPA Should Be Asking – Common Trust explains the key tax considerations your CPA should evaluate — from EOTs and ESOPs to S-Corp conversions, installment sales, and trust structure decisions.

Why People Can’t Build Wealth on Wages Alone, and What to Do About It – Fast Company writes compellingly about the need for more companies to “convert to worker ownership… (the) idea is not new, but it is newly urgent, and the evidence for its benefits has never been stronger.”

A pro-worker experiment in private equity (NPR podcast) – If your company got bought by a private equity firm, how would you feel? One private equity executive is trying to do things differently – giving workers equity, small stakes in their own companies. To see whether doing so can improve overall outcomes.

Smart Profit Share - The Simplest Form of Employee Ownership

Mon, 18 May 2026 14:18:47 GMT

The simplest form of employee ownership

Join Christine and Thomas from Hive Ownership for a conversation about smart profit share, a simple approach to employee ownership that any small business can start today.

We'll start with a brief introduction to smart profit share and how it works. Then we'll open it up. This is a small group session, not a lecture. We want to hear about your business, your team, and what's on your mind. Whether you've been thinking about employee ownership for years or you're just curious, there's space for you here.

By the end, you'll have a clear picture of what smart profit share looks like in practice, what it takes to get started, and whether it makes sense for your situation. You'll also walk away with a simple framework you can use to think about ownership culture in your business, whatever you decide to do next.

If something's been stopping you from getting started with employee ownership, bring it along. We'd rather talk about real problems than hypothetical ones.

Learn more at hiveownership.com.

April 2026 Newsletter

Mon, 11 May 2026 16:36:58 GMT

FREE Smart Profit Share Webinar 5/13, LEO-Funded Pilot Funds EO Transitions, and the latest EO news curated for you…

UPCOMING EVENTS

SMART PROFIT SHARE – THE SIMPLEST FORM OF EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP

What would change if your team felt like owners? Join MICEO’s conversation with Hive Ownership about building an ownership culture through smart profit share – a simple approach to employee ownership that any small business can start today. This FREE webinar will talk about what smart profit share is, how it works in practice, and whether it could be a fit for your business. You'll also walk away with a simple framework you can use to think about ownership culture in your business, whatever you decide to do next.

Date: Wednesday, May 13th 2026

Time: 1:00 – 2:00 PM EDT

Cost: FREE

Whether you have been thinking about employee ownership for years or you are just curious, this webinar is for you. Can’t make it? Feel free to register, and we will send you the recording.

Register Now

MICEO UPDATES

LEO-FUNDED PILOT FUNDS EO TRANSITIONS

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO), in partnership with MICEO, is offering a Transition to Employee Ownership Pilot Program that provides funding for feasibility studies, pre-feasibility assessments, valuation services, legal services, and other critical support to help enable business owners assess their potential for employee ownership conversions.

With thousands of Michigan business owners nearing retirement – many without an exit plan – the Transition to Employee Ownership Pilot Program offers a timely solution. By transitioning to employee ownership, businesses create their own buyers — preserving jobs, community roots, and operational continuity.

Click HERE to learn more – or fill out an intake form . Even if you don't qualify for funding, MICEO will point you in the right direction for your business and help you find partners who can guide you through this process.

FOCUS ON MICHIGAN

AIRCRAFT PRECISION PRODUCTS INC.

Aircraft Precision Products Inc . is an employee-owned company established in 1964 and headquartered in Ithaca, Michigan, that specializes in precision machining and thermal coating, primarily for the aerospace and defense industries. From jet engine components to mission-critical parts, innovation and rigorous testing help keep the aerospace industry flying safely. Aircraft Precision Products, Inc. maintains its industry-leading reputation by combining expert personnel and craftsmen with the latest CAD/CAM software, fully automated coordinate-measuring machinery, four- and five-axis CNC machining centers, and extensive CNC lathe capabilities.

Learn more about Aircraft Precision Products Inc

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP RESOURCES

LEARN MORE ABOUT EO

Case study: Private equity impacts in Michigan – Private Equity Stakeholder Project reports that private equity firms now control nearly 9% of Michigan's private sector workforce — and the impacts are being felt across healthcare, manufacturing, retail, and hospitality.

Cooperatives are the Path to the Economy we Desire – The Cooperative Development Foundation makes a compelling case that cooperatives aren't just a niche business model — they're a proven path toward the economy most people say they want.

Top 10 ESOP Market Predictions for 2026 – The Menke Group reports that conditions for employee ownership heading into 2026 look favorable with more financing options, growing awareness, and a federal policy environment that's taking employee ownership seriously for the first time.

Did you miss MICEO’s April 15th webinar?

Listen to “What Every Business Owner Should Know About Exit Planning” where MICEO Executive Director Roy Messing covers the essentials: what exit planning entails, when to start, and how to ensure you're not leaving money — or your life's work — on the table.

What Every Business Owner Should Know About Exit Planning

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 18:06:09 GMT

Most business owners pour years — sometimes decades — into building something they're proud of. But when it comes time to move on, many aren't prepared. Research shows that many business owners lack an exit plan, which puts them at risk of failing to meet their retirement goals or settling for less than their business is worth.

Exit planning is about finding an elegant and flexible solution — one that lets you leave what you've built in capable hands while still receiving full fair market value and significant tax savings. It's not just about selling; it's about protecting your legacy, your employees, and your financial future.

Roy Messing, Executive Director of the Michigan Center for Employee Ownership, has helped educate owners and their advisors on transition options — including employee ownership models that can keep businesses local, preserve jobs, and help owners achieve their retirement goals.

In this free webinar, Roy covers the essentials: what exit planning entails, when to start, and how to ensure you're not leaving money — or your life's work — on the table.

March 2026 Newsletter | 2nd Edition

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 02:38:55 GMT

FREE Exit Planning Webinar, Attn: Rural Business Owners in Upper Peninsula, What Business Sector is Most Suitable for an ESOP? and the latest EO news curated for you…

UPCOMING EVENTS

Are you thinking about what happens when it's time to move on from your business? Join Roy Messing, MICEO’s Executive Director, for a FREE webinar covering everything you need to know about Exit Planning — from smart transitions to protecting what you've built. Whether you’re just curious or ready to plan, this event’s packed with practical tips and insider info.

Date : Wednesday, April 15

Time : 1:00–2 PM EDT

Cost : FREE

Join us to start protecting your business's future. Can’t make it? Feel free to register, and we will send you the recording.

Register Here

MICEO UPDATE

ATTN: UPPER PENINSULA BUSINESS OWNERS

Many rural communities are facing economic challenges as aging business owners approach retirement without clear succession plans. To help rural Michigan businesses remain rooted in their communities, MICEO is supporting business owners in the Upper Peninsula as they explore employee ownership as a transition option.

This project, which is being conducted with support from a USDA Rural Business Development Grant, is focused on preserving jobs and stabilizing local economies. The goal is to identify challenges and opportunities, provide guidance on structuring an employee ownership plan, and support owners through the transition process.

If you are considering retirement or stepping back from your business, please complete this short form to let us know more about you and your business. We can help you evaluate employee ownership and chart a clear path toward a successful transition. Let’s start something! Apply Here

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP FAQS

WHAT BUSINESS SECTOR IS MOST SUITABLE FOR AN ESOP?

E SOPs are not limited to any particular sector and are widely distributed across many industries. The National Center for Employee Ownership (NCEO) reports that ESOPs are found in all sectors of the economy, from Arts & Entertainment to Wholesale Trade. In private companies, ESOPs are mainly found in professional, scientific, and technical services (21%), manufacturing (19%), and construction (19%). These industries often consist of established mid-sized companies where owners are seeking succession options.

In public companies – which represent a much smaller portion of ESOP plans overall – manufacturing (38%) and finance/insurance (30%) are the most popular industries. NCEO's newly updated interactive infographic shows the percentages for private, public, and all companies – illustrating how employee ownership can work across many types of businesses.

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP RESOURCES

LEARN MORE ABOUT EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP

Black Employee Ownership: A Pathway to Wealth Building and Economic Opportunity – Employee ownership has incredible potential for wealth-building strategy. New research from Project Equity shows Black workers remain significantly underrepresented in employee ownership, even in industries where they make up a substantial share of the workforce.

A Holding Company Built for EO Outdoor Recreation Businesses – The Outdoor Rec Collective plans to bring together a diverse collection of employee-owned outdoor companies to help owners sustain their brands while delivering higher wages.

Unearthing the Future: A Love for the Land – This short video was produced for The Farmers Land Trust by BBC StoryWorks Commercial Productions and features Blue Rock Station and the Blue Rock Farmland Commons . Discover how the Farmer’s Land Trust is helping them protect the land and give long-term security to its next generation stewards.

March 2026 Newsletter | 1st Edition

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 16:39:46 GMT

Attn: Rural Business Owners in Upper and Lower Peninsulas, Spotlight on McNaughton-McKay Electric Company, and the latest EO news curated for you...

Exciting developments from the Massachusetts Center for Employee Ownership (MassCEO)! A new pilot stipend program is launching to help more businesses explore employee ownership by offsetting feasibility study and valuation costs. By reducing financial barriers, this initiative expands access to ESOPs and cooperatives, strengthens succession planning, and supports resilient local economies and shared prosperity. For more insight, see Kevin Kuros' post .

MICEO UPDATE

ATTN: UPPER PENINSULA BUSINESS OWNERS

RURAL BUSINESS OWNERY SURVEY

If you own or operate a rural business in one of the 14 counties MICEO serves in the NE Lower Peninsula counties, we want to hear from YOU. MICEO is gathering direct input from rural entrepreneurs, small business owners, and family-owned businesses to better understand your needs, challenges, and long-term goals—especially around business sustainability, workforce retention, and succession planning.

Counties we are targeting include: Cheboygan, Presque Isle, Otsego, Montmorency, Alpena, Crawford, Oscoda, Alcona, Roscommon, Ogemaw, and Iosco; Northwest Lower Peninsula including Emmit, Antrim, and Charlevoix.

Your responses to our Rural Business Owners Survey will help shape future rural business support programs, funding opportunities, technical assistance, and ownership transition resources designed specifically for rural communities.

Strong rural economies start with informed action—and that starts with you. Fill out the Rural Business Owners Survey HERE .

FOCUS ON MICHIGAN

MCNAUGHTON-MCKAY ELECTRIC COMPANY

McNaughton-McKay Electric Company is a 100% employee owned wholesale electrical distributor based in Madison Heights, MI. McNaughton-McKay has been powering industry since 1910, including industrial, commercial, and institutional customers – from automation and control systems to power distribution and electrical components.

With a full line of products ranging from pipe and wire to complex automation control systems, McNaughton-McKay serves everyone from small electrical contractors to large-scale manufacturers. As an employee-owned company, every team member has a stake in the company’s success — driving accountability, strengthening customer partnerships, and reinforcing a long-term commitment to Michigan’s manufacturing and industrial communities.

Learn more at: https://www.mc-mc.com/

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP RESOURCES

LEARN MORE ABOUT EO

How ESOPs Grow: Strategies to Build Value Through Each Maturity Stage – From early implementation to long-term optimization, successful ESOPs prioritize financial literacy, transparency, and proactive planning—ensuring employee-owners understand their role in building lasting business success.

The Great Ownership Transfer: A New Era of Business Ownership – The McKinsey Institute for Economic Mobility’s new report examines an unprecedented wave of small-business ownership transitions that pose challenges for communities, especially rural areas, where small businesses account for more than half of total employment.

Cadbury built a city for workers—then gave it to them – In the late 1800s, chocolate makers George and Richard Cadbury built Bournville, a model village designed to give factory workers healthy housing, green space, and strong social supports. In 1900, they did something truly revolutionary – gifting ownership of the entire estate to a charitable trust, effectively transferring ownership of the village to the community itself.

February 2026 Newsletter | 2nd Edition

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 16:34:01 GMT

Attn: Rural Businesses in NE Lower Peninsula, FREE EO Webinar Mar. 12, What Happens When an ESOP Company is Sold? and the latest EO news curated for you...

Exciting developments from the Massachusetts Center for Employee Ownership (MassCEO)! A new pilot stipend program is launching to help more businesses explore employee ownership by offsetting the costs of feasibility studies and valuations. By reducing financial barriers, this initiative expands access to ESOPs and cooperatives, strengthens succession planning, and supports resilient local economies and shared prosperity.

For more insight, see Kevin Kuros’ post

MICEO UPDATE

If you own or operate a rural business in one of the 14 counties MICEO serves in the NE Lower Peninsula counties, we want to hear from you. MICEO is gathering direct input from rural entrepreneurs, small business owners, and family-owned businesses to better understand your needs, challenges, and long-term goals—especially in the areas of business sustainability, workforce retention, and succession planning.

Strong rural economies start with informed action—and that starts with you. Fill out the Rural Business Owners Survey HERE .

UPCOMING EVENTS

FREE WEBINAR: BEYOND RETIREMENT - THE REAL STORY OF ESOP PAYOUTS

Join Steve Storkan of Employee Ownership Expansion Network for a FREE webinar titled, “Beyond Retirement: The Real Story of ESOP Payouts” on March 12 at noon CST. This webinar, featuring Aaron Dean of Deanalytics , will focus on new research analyzing ESOP distributions from 2009–2024 and how job transitions and terminated ESOPs shape when and how wealth reaches workers. Learn more and register HERE .

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP FAQS

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN AN ESOP COMPANY IS SOLD?

Generally, when an ESOP is created, the expectation is that the ESOP will remain in place indefinitely and the employee-owners will continue to benefit over time as their ESOP accounts accumulate company shares. But there are cases when ESOP-owned companies are sold. Typically, if an ESOP-owned company is contemplating a sale of the business, it is because the company has received an unsolicited purchase offer from a private equity firm or a competitor in the same or a similar industry.

Click HERE to learn more about what happens when an ESOP company is sold.

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP RESOURCES

LEARN MORE ABOUT EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP

From Highways to Ownership: Why ESOPs Matter for Trucking Businesses – Employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) are emerging as a strategic succession and stability option for trucking companies facing tight margins, workforce challenges, and aging ownership.

Worker co-ops rising in the USA – Coop News reports that Worker co-ops and democratic workplaces have grown 34% since 2020 while more than doubling their workforce.

Brad’s Service Center’s Story of Succession –This story from Ratchet+Wrench highlights how Brad’s Service Center transitioned ownership to the very employees who helped build its success, ensuring continuity, preserving legacy, and rewarding team commitment.

February 2026 Newsletter | 1st Edition

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 16:34:00 GMT

Attn: Rural Businesses in NE Lower Peninsula, Ventura Trust becomes ESOP, and the latest EO news curated for you

MICEO UPDATE

If you own or operate a rural business in one of the 14 counties MICEO serves in the North East Lower Peninsula counties, we want to hear from you. MICEO is gathering direct input from rural entrepreneurs, small business owners, and family-owned businesses to better understand your needs, challenges, and long-term goals—especially in the areas of business sustainability, workforce retention, and succession planning.

Strong rural economies start with informed action—and that starts with you. Fill out the Rural Business Owners Survey HERE .

FOCUS ON MICHIGAN

VENTURA TRUST BECOMES AN ESOP

Ventura Trust , a service provider that specializes in ESOP trustee and fiduciary services for employee-owned companies, recently transitioned to an employee-owned company itself! With clients in more than 30 states, Ventura Trust specializes in large and complex clients and serves over 175 ESOP plans each year.

Ventura Managing Partner (and new employee-owner) Alex Perry serves on MICEO's Board, and Ventura’s President, Neil Brozen, is on the board of MICEO's parent organization, the Employee Ownership Expansion Network. Congratulations to the entire Ventura team on this exciting next chapter!

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP RESOURCES

LEARN MORE ABOUT EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP

Fast Company: Closing the Wealth Gap – the Solution Hiding in Plain Sight – This Fast Company article argues that employee ownership is a proven, market-tested way to expand wealth beyond a few and into the hands of the people who build our companies.

Italy's Radical Solution to Extreme Inequality – This video explores how Italy’s cooperative system empowers workers with shared ownership, stronger job security, and more equitable wealth creation. A compelling case for rethinking how businesses are owned and how value is distributed.

Generation ESOP: 10.8 Million And Growing – Explore Forbes’ perspective on the continued rise of ESOPs and why this model is becoming an essential tool for sustainable growth.

January 2026 Newsletter | 2nd Edition

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 16:33:59 GMT

Wolverine Crane Transitions to ESOP, Tax Incentives for Selling Business Owners, NCEO Annual Conference, and the latest EO news curated for you.

January 2026 Newsletter, Part 2

January 2026 Newsletter | 1st Edition

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 16:33:57 GMT

Celebrating a year of impact, FREE ESOP Conference in FL Feb. 2-3, EO FAQs, and the latest EO news curated for you

January Updates for MICEO, Part 1

December 2025 Newsletter

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 19:08:34 GMT

How YOU can help keep businesses rooted in MI, Discounts for Grand Rapids-area EO companies, FREE ESOP Conference in FL on Feb. 2-3, and more…

December Updates for MICEO

November 2025 Newsletter

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 03:53:52 GMT

Who will own your business after you? Is selling an ESOP really complex and expensive? Check out our November Newsletter for the answer to these questions. Link below!

November Updates for MICEO

October 2025 Newsletter

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 03:04:59 GMT

November 20th, MICEO is hosting a FREE CE Credit Webinar! Register at the link found in our October 2025 Newsletter.

October Updates for MICEO

September 2025 Newsletter

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 02:51:15 GMT

Stay up-to-date on our current webinar series, check out the John Abrams interview, and so much more!

September Updates for MICEO

Building a Business That Belongs to Everyone: John Abrams' Story

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 16:11:02 GMT

"I am committed to using business as a force for good."

That vision has guided John Abrams for more than four decades. As the founder of South Mountain Company – a 40-person worker cooperative that specializes in architecture, building, and solar on Martha’s Vineyard – Abrams built not just a company, but a community. Today, South Mountain is recognized as one of the highest-scoring B Corps in the world and continues to thrive long after Abrams has passed leadership on to the next generation.

Not only did he help his company thrive well beyond his tenure, but in his book From Founder to Future , Abrams explores the rise of employee ownership and offers insider expertise and practical advice.

The Power of Letting Go

MICEO interviewed John about his transition to employee ownership and then, decades later, to second-generation leadership. Abrams knew early on that succession wasn’t a one-time event, but a process. He tested distributed management by taking a six-month sabbatical. When he returned, moral had tanked and the system needed re-design. The team worked through that, and he did it again. The second time, it got traction, and the system has worked, with adjustments to this day- 20 years later.

After working with the leadership team for years to build requisite capacities, when he returned at the end of 2022 it was seamless.

“It was like I slipped right out of the leadership team and they just kept going,” Abrams recalls. “Since I left, they have thrived and evolved – even taking the company to places I may not have been able to.”

Why Employee Ownership Works

Abrams made the shift to employee ownership mid-career, a choice he calls the key to South Mountain’s long-term success. Transitioning while he was still active gave future leaders time to grow into their roles and align on vision.

Too often, he says, business owners sell to private equity and later regret it: “Fat wallets and broken hearts,” he calls it, watching companies get sliced apart for profit. Employee ownership, by contrast, allows founders to honor the people who helped build the business while ensuring its mission continues.

“It’s a way for owners, at once, to recoup their investment and share with employees who helped build it." Abrams says.

Meet the team behind South Mountain Company – a family-like cooperative of architects, designers, solar installers, and carpenters working side by side. As a certified B Corp since 2008, South Mountain Company consistently ranks among the top five of 10,000 companies worldwide, outperforming global icons like Patagonia and TOMS. Their success proves that when a business runs as a true worker cooperative, the results earn recognition on a global stage.

From Owner to Ownership

At South Mountain, the team rooted their success in long-term planning: creating five- and ten-year visions, then distilling them into annual goals. They built a clear decision making matrix and a strong leadership culture. Abrams is quick to dispel a common myth about worker cooperatives: “A lot of people think they’re leaderless entities. On the contrary, you need tremendous leadership and a strong plan in place.”

You can hear John dispel more of these myths, on one of his featured podcasts on 21 Hats.

The Bigger Picture

Abrams’ new book, From Founder to Future , places South Mountain’s story within the broader employee ownership movement. He explores the three major models – and beyond – which in John's terms are:

Worker cooperatives (WCs): Democracy baked in — one shareholder, one vote.
Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs): More complex, but effective. The key? “Operate like a coop but finance as an ESOP.”
Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs): The new kid on the block. Popular in Britain, where a trust holds shares for employees’ benefit.

The ecosystem supporting these models is growing fast. “We are so fortunate to have the Employee Ownership Expansion Network (EOX) and 26 state centers, where five years ago there were only a few,” Abrams notes. “If you have a State EO center, that is the place to start. The EO community is just packed full of collaboration.”

Beyond the Bottom Line

South Mountain’s mission has always stretched beyond profit. The company has tackled affordable housing challenges on Martha’s Vineyard while simultaneously pioneering sustainable building practices. For Abrams, business is simply a platform for solving community problems.

And he admits he thrives on uncertainty : “I love doing things I have no idea what I'm doing— it keeps it fresh.”

Looking Ahead

Abrams’ journey shows what’s possible when vision, structure, and trust in people align. South Mountain not only survived his departure — it flourished. His story underscores the potential of employee ownership as both a business strategy and a force for good.

“When people get a clear picture of what this means, their outlook changes,” Abrams says. His own career is proof: with the right steps, businesses can outlast their founders, stay true to their values, and continue creating shared prosperity for generations to come.

To watch the full interview, head to our YouTube Channel here:

Aaron Dean: The Game-Changer in ESOP Data

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 14:39:22 GMT

Through Deanalytics, Aaron Dean is transforming the way employee-owned companies use data - turning numbers into clarity, culture, and long-term value.

Through Deanalytics , Aaron Dean is redefining how employee-owned companies use data by helping them use data as a common language.

If you haven’t heard of Deanalytics yet, you will soon. Deanalytics blends advanced analytics and AI-driven tools with human-centered coaching, built specifically for ESOP's. Think of it as the next generation of ownership tools: one clear dashboard for financial and operational data, including the interactive “owner’s game” where every employee can see their contribution, KPI strategy sessions, and data-driven forecasting. Deanalytics makes it simple, turning scattered numbers into a shared story that every employee-owner can understand and act on.

This simple and clean dashboard is the new wave of ESOP sophistication. By combining technical expertise with education and coaching, Deanalytics empowers employee-owners to turn data into daily ownership practice.

Turning Numbers Into Ownership Power

With over a decade of experience both as an ESOP insider and a seasoned data strategist, Aaron Dean is uniquely positioned to lead in this industry. You may have seen him speak at conferences like the National Center for Employee Ownership (NCEO) and share his partnerships with State Centers through the Employee Ownership Expansion Network (EOX). Deanalytics is thinking leaps and bounds ahead of what an employee owned company needs to succeed.

Deanalytics pairs dashboards like the Owner’s Game with literacy workshops and strategy sessions — blending technology with human-centered guidance so every employee-owner can understand and act on the numbers.

Employee Ownership Platform

Aaron’s mission is simple: make data a shared language. From the shop floor to the boardroom, shared understanding turns numbers into action in a simple platform for everyone to be on the same page. When every employee can see how their daily work links to company performance, engagement rises, waste falls, and long-term value grows.

DeanAnalytics offers software product services at every stage: from literacy workshops that help teams build confidence, to the Value Driver Dashboard and Owner’s Platform designed specifically for ESOPs. Whether a company is just starting to measure or already swimming in data, the goal is the same: turning information into shared ownership value.

“Data literacy isn’t a one-time training—it’s a path. We help teams move from first questions to confident decisions, linking daily work to share value so employee-owners can act with clarity.” CEO Aaron Dean, Deanalytics.

Leading the Way in ESOP Data

No one else in the world focuses exclusively on employee-owned data the way Aaron does. He bridges technical expertise with human-centered coaching. The result? Companies that engage employees, eliminate waste, and grow faster.

Want to take the first step? Download the free Data Literacy White Paper to help your ESOP on its data journey. Learn more at Deanalytics.

Get to know Aaron here: Empowered by Data: How Domo Transforms Careers | Domopalooza 202 5
Watch Aaron’s conference talk for a taste of his energy.
Download the free white paper to start your company’s data journey.
Learn more about Deanalytics .

Author John Abrams Interview

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 17:57:42 GMT

Listen to MICEO Executive Director Roy Messing’s interview with John Abrams, author of “From Founder to Future: A Business Roadmap to Impact, Longevity, and Employee Ownership.”

This recorded conversation explores how mission-driven business owners can:

✅ Transition leadership with confidence

✅ Build shared ownership models

✅ Preserve values for long-term success

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain insights into building a business that thrives for generations.

Watch and listen to the recording HERE : Check out our Youtube Page - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gjVDUQcRuYU

July 2025 Newsletter

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 16:18:42 GMT

New LEO-Funded Pilot funds EO transitions, MICEO Team grows, and so much more!

MICEO July 2025 Updates

August 2025 Newsletter

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 16:03:35 GMT

How does an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) transaction work? Check out the link below to find out.

August Updates for MICEO

Employee Ownership in Action

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 20:56:53 GMT

Emprise - Nice-Pak Deal puts Employee Ownership First across city lines.

In a major move for both global growth and local economic impact, Emprise Group Inc. , a 100% employee-owned company with operations in Grand Rapids, Michigan announced that its portfolio company Vivos Holdings will merge with Nice-Pak Products , a global leader in personal care and hygiene wipes.

While Emprise is based in St. Louis , its presence in Grand Rapids is a key part of the story. Grand Rapids ranks 12th in the country for the number of employee-owned companies , and this deal reinforces its role as a rising hub for shared-ownership success.

The combined organization will become one of the world's largest private-label and co-manufacturing providers of healthful living products—offering a powerful example of what employee ownership can achieve at scale.

"Being employee-owned means we invest in people first," said Richard Koulouris , CEO of Emprise. "This combination strengthens our ability to create long-term value for both our customers and our employee-owners."

This transaction brings together over 2,700 employees globally , including the 1,200+ employee-owners already part of the Emprise network. Nice-Pak—known for products like the original

Wet-Nap® and resealable baby wipe packs—adds manufacturing strength and global reach.

At the Michigan Center for Employee Ownership (MICEO) , we see this as a milestone moment that aligns with our mission: helping business owners and communities across the state explore and adopt employee ownership. As Michigan invests in this model, through programs like the $500,000 state pilot launched in 2025 .

Why It Matters:

Local leadership: Emprise's Grand Rapids facility is part of a growing network of Michigan-based employee-owned companies.
Broad-based benefit: Employee ownership drives wealth-building, retention, and stronger communities.
Real-world validation: This deal is among the largest ESOP-led acquisitions ever—proof that the model works, even at a global scale.

This is more than a merger. It's a celebration of what happens when two communities, built on the foundation of employee ownership, come together to grow something greater across city lines. Thanks to Alice Clark, CHRO, Emprise Group Inc., for their partnership with the Michigan Center for Employee Ownership.

Richard Koulouris, CEO of Emprise

Free in person CE credit brunch and learn

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 14:05:07 GMT

Hosted by MICEO and Moore & Kerbawy

Summer 2025 Webinar: 7/9/25

katie@miceo.org (Katie .) — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 14:31:14 GMT

Intentionally Defective Grantor Trusts

Watch the second installment of our Summer Webinar series HERE! Download and enjoy.

New 500k pilot to expand employee ownership opportunities

katie@miceo.org (Katie .) — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 18:11:13 GMT

New 500k pilot to expand employee ownership opportuniti

The Michigan Center for Employee ownership is partnering with the State of Michigan's Labor & Economic Opportunity to launch an employee ownership pilot program. Read the full press release here:

LEO - New 500k pilot to expand employee ownership opportunities

June 2025 Newsletter

katie@miceo.org (Katie .) — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 21:03:28 GMT

MICEO turns 3, our Summer Webinar Series is in full swing, and so much more!

June Updates for MICEO

Summer 2025 Webinar: 6/25/25

katie@miceo.org (Katie .) — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 16:15:02 GMT

Introduction to Employee Ownership

Watch the first installment of our Summer Webinar series HERE! Download and enjoy.

May 2025 Newsletter

katie@miceo.org (Katie .) — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 22:13:20 GMT

How do employees "buy in" to an ESOP? Click the link below to find out the answer.

May Updates for MICEO

April 2025 Newsletter

katie@miceo.org (Katie .) — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 22:09:59 GMT

Learn more about our Employee Ownership Resources

April Updates for MICEO

MICEO Summer 2025 Webinar series

katie@miceo.org (Katie .) — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 18:24:46 GMT

Join us for our summer webinar series, register below!

So want to form an ESOP? What you need to know from an insider's view. Tickets, Wed, Aug 6, 2025 at 1:00 PM | Eventbrite

Introduction to Donor Advised Funds Tickets, Thu, Aug 14, 2025 at 1:00 PM | Eventbrite

How Worker Cooperatives and EOTs Facilitate A Business Owner’s Exit Tickets, Wed, Aug 20, 2025 at 1:00 PM | Eventbrite

March 2025 Newsletter

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 14:28:30 GMT

MICEO receives the Rural Readiness Grant from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity's (LEO) Office of Rural Prosperity.

March Updates from MICEO

From Rural Roots to Global Reach: Besser's Employee-Owned Success Story

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 14:49:52 GMT

MICEO Takes a Closer Look at Besser Company

The Michigan Center for Employee Ownership had the privilege of exploring the remarkable success story of Besser Company. From its humble beginnings in Alpena, MI, Besser has grown into a global powerhouse, with operations and influence reaching across the world. At the heart of their impressive expansion is a deep commitment to employee ownership, (a value they proudly live by every day) driving their culture and success at every level. Take a look inside Besser Company and learn more about their story. Take a Look at Besser Company

The Power of Employee Ownership

Besser Company and the communities they serve in have undergone an extraordinary transformation since transitioning to employee ownership through its Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). What began as a small company in a rural area has grown into a globally recognized leader in the concrete products industry, shipping products worldwide. This remarkable growth is a direct result of the cultural shift brought about by employee ownership, which has instilled a shared sense of purpose and accountability among the companies over 450 employees worldwide. Every team member now has a personal stake in Besser’s success. This collaboration has fueled innovation, team building and an unwavering commitment to excellence since becoming an ESOP in 2004.

Preserving Legacy Through Employee Ownership

The decision to transition to an ESOP came when the Besser/Park family decided to retire. Wanting to preserve the company's legacy, family-owned atmosphere, and unique culture, they established the ESOP to ensure that employees could shape the future of the company while honoring its roots. Read more on their transition to becoming Employee Owned .

Empowering Employees, Expanding Worldwide

Today, Besser is a 100% employee-owned company and has several key locations across North America. Besser’s growth and employee ownership have fostered a culture of collaboration, empowering employees to engage deeply with company operations and pursue long-term objectives with enthusiasm. As a result, Besser continues to deliver exceptional products and services, expanding its reach beyond the U.S. and growing its influence on the global stage.

Celebrating 120 Years: Besser’s Success for Employees and the Alpena Community

" As the company expands, employees are more involved in community initiatives like food drives and charity work, while Besser’s increased success allows for larger donations to local organizations. Additionally, the company’s growth has created more job opportunities, contributing to the local economy and offering stability for residents. Through these efforts, Besser has become a key partner in the ongoing development and well-being of Alpena."

As Besser thrives, it has made a significant positive impact on the communities they serve. Creating job opportunities, providing economic stability, and encouraging employees to actively participate in local events and charitable causes. Besser has become a cornerstone of Alpena's continued development, demonstrating that a company’s success can have far-reaching benefits both locally and globally. Besser Manufacturing carries employee ownership as a core value, watch as they celebrate 120 years.

A special thanks to Amanda Oliver as Besser's Communication's Specialist for this collaboration! If you want to hear more about the interview with Besser, please contact Katie at katie@miceo.org to learn more!

More information on Besser:

Besser Manufacturing Employee Owned

801 Johnson Street

Alpena, Michigan 49707

+1.989.354.4111 or 1.800.968.0444

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Empowering Business with Technology & Strategy

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 17:07:18 GMT

A Capital Readiness Initiative

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February 2025 Newsletter

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 14:54:05 GMT

MICEO launches a FREE webinar series on Employee Ownership

February Updates from MICEO

MICEO Breaking Business Barriers Webinar series

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 14:17:22 GMT

Ready to take your business to the next level? Join us for a 4-part webinar series kicking off with the Michigan Center for Employee Ownership. We’ll dive into critical topics like securing capital funding, getting your business prepared for growth, and leveraging employee ownership. Each session will offer expert guidance and practical takeaways to empower your business. Look out for upcoming sessions from Peoples First Economy, the Center for Community-Based Enterprise, and the Detroit Common Wealth Fund for continued learning and growth.

Follow the link below to our Eventbrite page to register for this webinar series!

Breaking Business Barriers: Business-Ready for Capital: Key Factors Tickets, Thu, Mar 13, 2025 at 1:00 PM | Eventbrite

January 2025 Newsletter

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 14:17:20 GMT

Why Besser Company transitioned to an ESOP

January Updates from MICEO

December 2024 Newsletter

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 14:42:25 GMT

Who will own your business after you? Check out our Business Succession Planning resources.

December Updates from MICEO

November 2024 Newsletter

katie@miceo.org (Katie .) — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 18:13:34 GMT

Newsletter Launch! Thank you for joining us on this journey as we expand into monthly email updates. Check out our first edition at the link below!

November Updates from MICEO

W.K. Kellogg Foundation Grant

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 01:53:12 GMT

The Employee Ownership Expansion Network Receives W.K. Kellogg Foundation Grant to Increase Employee Ownership in Michigan

Grand Rapids, MI – The Employee Ownership Expansion Network (EOX) – a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding employee ownership across the U.S. through the creation of state centers – has been awarded a $300,000 grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation to expand the work of the Michigan Center for Employee Ownership (MICEO).

The three-year grant from Kellogg Foundation will focus on identifying businesses in the Grand Rapids/Kent County area with soon-to-be-retiring owners that employ a high level of BIPOC individuals, and educating them on the benefits of employee ownership as an exit planning option. Our goal is to increase the number of BIPOC employee owners under this project.

Time is of the essence for this work. A study completed for the MICEO by Project Equity (https://miceo.org/the-silver-tsunami/) found that approximately 50% of privately owned businesses in Kent County are owned by individuals who will retire in the next 10 to 15 years. These 5,619 businesses employ over 100,000 people, generate $21 billion in revenue, and have annual payrolls of $4 billion.

Roy Messing, Executive Director of the MICEO, notes that the dramatic increase in retirements is concerning because, “Only half of business owners typically have succession plans in place, and more often than not, the plan is to sell the business. When the time comes to sell, however, only one in three businesses finds a buyer, forcing some companies to close their doors. The potential loss of jobs will greatly impact communities in Michigan and working families,” Messing says.

“With Kellogg Foundation’s support, MICEO will encourage businesses owners to consider converting their businesses to an employee ownership model rather than selling the business to a third party or closing it,” said Steve Storkan, Executive Director of EOX. “Most business owners aren’t aware that this is an option.”

Numerous research studies show that workers who are part of an employee-owned company tend to have higher incomes and higher net worth than their conventionally employed counterparts. A study from the Rutgers Institute for the Study of Employee Ownership and Profit-Sharing shows that among lower-income workers, those at employee-owned firms are more financially secure than their peers.

“Selling a business to its employees keeps jobs in the community, and creates a legacy that owners can feel good about. It is also a strategy to address the issue of rising wealth and income disparity in this country,” said Storkan. “We are eager to get started on the outreach and education to as many business owners as possible in Grand Rapids and Kent County and we are honored that the W.K. Kellogg Foundation has chosen to support the work that we are doing.”

About the Employee Ownership Expansion Network

The Employee Ownership Expansion Network is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded in Philadelphia, PA in 2018 and headquartered in Arlington, VA. Its mission is to significantly expand employee ownership in the United States by establishing and supporting a network of independent, nonprofit Centers for Employee Ownership. To date, EOX has provided funding and technical assistance to support the opening of eleven State Centers. EOX’s goal is to create one million new employee owners by 2025. To learn more, visit www.eoxnetwork.org.

About the Michigan Center for Employee Ownership

The Michigan Center for Employee Ownership is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2022 that serves as the central hub for information and resources around employee ownership in Michigan.

The MICEO’s mission is to educate business owners and their advisors (lawyers, bankers, accountants, wealth advisors) on the benefits of employee ownership via Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs), worker cooperatives, and Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs). MICEO provides resources, case studies and articles, and a list of service providers who can assist with employee ownership transitions. MICEO serves the entire state of Michigan. To learn more, visit https://miceo.org .

About the W.K. Kellogg Foundation

The W.K. Kellogg Foundation (WKKF), founded in 1930 as an independent, private foundation by breakfast cereal innovator and entrepreneur Will Keith Kellogg, is among the largest philanthropic foundations in the United States. Guided by the belief that all children should have an equal opportunity to thrive, WKKF works with communities to create conditions for vulnerable children so they can realize their full potential in school, work and life.

The Kellogg Foundation is based in Battle Creek, Michigan, and works throughout the United States and internationally, as well as with sovereign tribes. Special attention is paid to priority places where there are high concentrations of poverty and where children face significant barriers to success. WKKF priority places in the U.S. are in Michigan, Mississippi, New Mexico and New Orleans; and internationally, are in Mexico and Haiti. For more information, visit www.wkkf.org .

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Designing the Future Together: DBI Becomes Employee-Owned

Designed by people. Built by teamwork. Owned by employees.

About DBI Business Interiors

About the Michigan Center for Employee Ownership

July 2026 Newsletter | 1st Edition

Announcing the 1st LEO-funded EO Pilot ESOP: North Arrow ABA, Must Family Owners Exit After an ESOP? and the latest EO news curated for you…

MICEO UPDATE

MICHIGAN'S FIRST EMPLOYEE-OWNED ABA FIRM

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP FAQs

MUST FAMILY OWNERS EXIT AFTER AN ESOP?

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP RESOURCES

LEARN MORE ABOUT EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP

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North Arrow ABA Makes History as Michigan’s First Employee-Owned Applied Behavior Analysis Firm

Leading a New Era of Ownership in Healthcare

Building a Future Designed to Last

Ownership Starts With People

A Michigan Company Leading National Change

Building the Future of Employee Ownership in Michigan

Additional Press Releases

June 2026 Newsletter

Private equity consolidation in the trades, Spotlight on 21st Century Plastics Corporation, and the latest EO news curated for you…

MICEO UPDATES

PRIVATE EQUITY CONSOLIDATION IN THE TRADES

FOCUS ON MICHIGAN

21ST CENTURY PLASTICS CORPORATIONS

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP FAQS

HOW WOULD AN ESOP WORK AT YOUR COMPANY?

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP RESOURCES

LEARN MORE ABOUT EO

May 2026 Newsletter | 2nd Edition

FREE 6-mo membership to NCEO, Focus on Ziebart International, FREE Registration for ESOP June Conference in OH, and the latest EO news curated for you…

MICEO UPDATES

FOCUS ON MICHIGAN

ZIEBART INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION

UPCOMING EVENTS

FREE ESOP CONFERENCE IN OH JUNE 15-16

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP RESOURCES

LEARN MORE ABOUT EO

May 2026 Newsletter | 1st Edition

Listen to Business Transition & Profit Sharing Webinar Recordings: Are There ESOP Tax Incentives for Employees? FREE Registration for ESOP June Conference in OH June, and the latest EO news curated for you…

MICEO UPDATES

BUSINESS TRANSITION & PROFIT SHARING WEBINAR RECORDINGS

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP FAQS

ARE THERE ESOP TAX INCENTIVES FOR EMPLOYEES?

UPCOMING EVENTS

FREE ESOP CONFERENCE IN OH JUNE 15-16

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP RESOURCES

LEARN MORE ABOUT EO

Smart Profit Share - The Simplest Form of Employee Ownership

April 2026 Newsletter

FREE Smart Profit Share Webinar 5/13, LEO-Funded Pilot Funds EO Transitions, and the latest EO news curated for you…

UPCOMING EVENTS

What Every Business Owner Should Know About Exit Planning

March 2026 Newsletter | 2nd Edition

FREE Exit Planning Webinar, Attn: Rural Business Owners in Upper Peninsula, What Business Sector is Most Suitable for an ESOP? and the latest EO news curated for you…

UPCOMING EVENTS

MICEO UPDATE

ATTN: UPPER PENINSULA BUSINESS OWNERS

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP FAQS

WHAT BUSINESS SECTOR IS MOST SUITABLE FOR AN ESOP?

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP RESOURCES

LEARN MORE ABOUT EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP

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March 2026 Newsletter | 1st Edition

Attn: Rural Business Owners in Upper and Lower Peninsulas, Spotlight on McNaughton-McKay Electric Company, and the latest EO news curated for you...

MICEO UPDATE

ATTN: UPPER PENINSULA BUSINESS OWNERS

RURAL BUSINESS OWNERY SURVEY

FOCUS ON MICHIGAN

MCNAUGHTON-MCKAY ELECTRIC COMPANY

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP RESOURCES

LEARN MORE ABOUT EO

February 2026 Newsletter | 2nd Edition

Attn: Rural Businesses in NE Lower Peninsula, FREE EO Webinar Mar. 12, What Happens When an ESOP Company is Sold? and the latest EO news curated for you...

MICEO UPDATE

UPCOMING EVENTS

FREE WEBINAR: BEYOND RETIREMENT - THE REAL STORY OF ESOP PAYOUTS

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP FAQS