In 2003, distinguished leaders in the business brokerage, intermediary, and merger & acquisition profession met to create a foundation. Each of the founding group has served as an officer and director of the International Business Brokers Association (IBBA). The goal was to advance and promote each of the professions. Therefore, they were especially mindful of the Association’s critical need to devote its resources into member programs. Hence, it had to be consistent with its charter and its commitments to conferences. This included Certified Business Intermediary (CBI) and Merger & Acquisition Master Intermediary (M&AMI) programs.
The Vision
The vision was to create a non-profit foundation capable of advancing and promoting the profession beyond IBBA’s scope and charter. It had to embrace the profession’s international aspects, be inclusive across the deal makers’ spectrum, and reach out to other industry organizations. Also, it was to create awareness and understanding among the public, other business advisors, owners, buyers, and sellers. Finally, advancement and promotion are to be based on information, understanding, cooperation, and education.
As a result, in 2005, the founders’ insight and efforts led to formation of the Business Intermediary Education Foundation, Inc. (BIEF). Thought, care, work, and love of the profession were the primary ingredients. BIEF is about a commitment to growth of the profession, promotion of the highest standards, and prosperity for its professionals. Furthermore, creating awareness and knowledge among sellers, buyers, and others engaged in the process of change in ownership of privately held businesses.
The structure is in place. Initial funding was given as a one-time grant from the IBBA. Consequently, this has created an outstanding opportunity for the business brokerage, intermediary, and merger & acquisition profession and its professionals. Now, it is time for you to step forward and support this undertaking with your ideas, efforts, and financial support. So, please give back to your profession today to help plant the seeds for a better tomorrow.