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
The 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
Calling 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.
