When Lookout Ridge Consulting decided to close its Michigan operation to focus on its businesses in Wisconsin and Minnesota its local consultants had a decision to make.
Four of them chose to launch a new, independent consulting firm based in Kalamazoo to help family businesses, especially farm operations. The business,
GROW: The Family Business Advisors, specializes in succession planning, financial management, strategic planning, and helping clients build teams that work together effectively.
Barb Dartt, Stephanie Edsall, Mike Fassler and John Williams decided to become entrepreneurs in providing the advice tailored uniquely to those who share a business and family celebrations at home.
The four found their core philosophies in alignment and decided to work together. “We have a passion for advising family businesses,” says Dartt. They also share a commitment to collaboration and the growth of their and their clients' skills.
The specialty in agriculture helps families whose businesses come with a heritage and preserving those businesses ultimately helps conserve the land, Dartt says. Some families need advice as they find the business that once dealt mostly with working outdoors with their hands has become more complex.
The consultants of GROW help families manage changes in the business. They help heal the business when necessary so that it can continue on into the future, Dartt says.
Each partner in GROW brings a specific expertise. Dartt develops succession and long-term plans and other financial analysis. Fassler has been serving family agricultural businesses since 1984, He has many years of experience adding value to family businesses owned and managed by siblings and cousins in business together. Williams has deep financial expertise and specializes in ownership transition. Edsall balances clients, projects and consultants needs from the Kalamazoo office.
The company also currently is looking for another partner, Dartt says.
Writer: Kathy Jennings, Second Wave Media
Source: Barb Dartt, GROW: The Family Business Advisors
• GROW: The Family Business Advisors has offices located at 5708 Venture Court, Suite A in Kalamazoo. Further information also is available at GROW’s new website or by contacting them at 800-663-5604.