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Boris Katsnelson shared thisJohn Goldasich and I are excited to attend this year’s Summit, “Scale and Scalability: Mapping the Route from Single Unit to Empire" August 18-20, 2026, in Denver. If you’re a franchisor or multi-unit franchisee, we'd love to see you there. Register here: https://lnkd.in/eUQtnyhJ Great work Kevin Hein and the Akerman LLP team for building a world class agenda. #GlobalFranchiseSummit #ScaleAndScalability #Akerman #Franchising
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Boris Katsnelson shared thisSome news I'm excited to share: I've joined The Montclair Group as a Managing Director. Over the last 25 years, I've sat in almost every seat at the franchise table. I started in investment banking. Moved into private equity. Then I did the thing most bankers never do — I bought in. I led SpeedPro as CEO. I owned and operated a Primrose School and College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving franchises. I've signed the personal guarantees, made payroll, and lived the royalty checks. So when a founder tells me what's at stake in a sale, I don't have to imagine it. I've been there. That's why Montclair was an easy yes. John Goldasich and Gavin McKinney, CPA have built a firm that treats every deal with the weight it deserves — senior bankers on every engagement, real franchise fluency, no shortcuts on client service. Most founders only sell once. They get one shot to get it right. My job is to make sure they do. If you're a founder thinking about what's next — even if "next" is years away — my door is open. Let's get to work. Press release: https://lnkd.in/gsNAQ6RK
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Boris Katsnelson shared thisI was honored to be part of a small, private gathering where Garett Bolles was the featured guest. Denver Broncos left tackle. First-team All-Pro. 🏈 But his most defining work happens off the field. 2026 NFLPA Alan Page Community Award winner. Two-time Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee. 👐 Garett had a troubled youth… kicked out of five schools as a teenager, arrested for vandalism, and eventually kicked out of his own home at 19 years old, standing on the side of the road with nothing but garbage bags of clothes. He never forgot what it meant to be that kid. Today, Garett makes weekly visits to the Marvin W. Foote Youth Services Center, a secure juvenile detention facility half a mile from Broncos headquarters. He shows up not as a celebrity, but as someone who sits with the kids, listens, and tells them: “I may have just met you, but I already love you.” 🫶 Broncos Owner Carrie Walton Penner has stood shoulder to shoulder with Garett in this work, co-hosting the ribbon-cutting for the newly renovated Foote Center courtyard funded by the Denver Broncos Foundation. That’s ownership investing in the community the right way. 🧡 And then there’s Kingston. 👑 In 2021, Garett’s son Kingston was diagnosed with Childhood Apraxia of Speech, a motor speech disorder that makes coordinating the movements needed for clear speech extremely difficult. Rather than keep it private, Garett went public and went to work 💪 He partnered with leading CAS specialist Jennie Bjorem to co-found Bjorem & Bolles — a first-of-its-kind training center in Parker, CO dedicated to equipping speech-language pathologists to diagnose and treat apraxia, with a long-term vision to open a school entirely dedicated to children with the condition. 🧠 #FaithFamilyFootball isn’t a tagline. It’s how he lives. ❤️🔥 Want to help? Follow GB3. Visit bjoremandbolles.com. Share this post. Donate. Raise awareness. Thank you to Ryan Miller, Dan Martella , Steve Starzec , and Ryan Coon, CAPI, ARM, CPCU, CPRIA for a hosting remarkable evening. 🙏 #GB3 #FaithFamilyFootball #ApraxiaAwareness #BjoremAndBolles #ChildhoodApraxia #IAmKing #DenverBroncos #GarettBolles #CommunityLeadership #NFLCommunity #GiveBack #Denver #MakeAnImpact #ColoradoGivesBjorem & Bolles Childhood Apraxia Education Initiative | Non-ProfitBjorem & Bolles Childhood Apraxia Education Initiative | Non-Profit
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Boris Katsnelson shared thisThe Eagles at the Sphere is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. A full sensory experience that wraps around you from every direction. The visuals, the acoustics, the sheer scale of it extraordinary! Great to spend an unforgettable night with Paul Habib.
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Boris Katsnelson shared thisReturning to #IFA26 after a decade – but this time with a very different lens. Last time I was here, I was CEO of SpeedPro, a franchisor. Then I became a franchisee in two systems (College H.U.N.K.S. Hauling Junk and Moving and Primrose Schools). Now, I'm back as an investment banker at Black Iron Advisers, representing the people I used to be: franchisors exploring their next chapter and multi-unit franchisees ready to sell. The perspective shift has been invaluable! Having sat in all three seats, I understand what keeps franchisors up at night when they're thinking about something different – even if they're years away. I know what multi-unit operators need to hear whether PE comes calling or they're selling to an individual buyer. And I've learned that the best exits don't start when you hire a banker; they start years earlier with intentional preparation. That's why I'm excited to lead a Finance Track roundtable on Tuesday: "Exiting in a Consolidating Market: What Franchisees and Franchisors Need to Know Now" 📍 Table 7 | Tuesday, Feb 24 | 4:30-6:00 PM PT Whether you're a franchisor exploring what an exit could look like, a multi-unit franchisee who simply wants to exit, or a supplier watching the market evolve – let's talk strategy, not just transactions. Comment "IFA" or DM me if you'd like to connect or stop by Table #7 Tuesday afternoon.
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Boris Katsnelson shared thisThank you, Cindy Jennings, for the great conversation and for shining a light on the realities of selling a business! Your point about the misconception that “having a buyer” means you’re set is spot on. Price is just one piece of the puzzle—there are many layers to peel back to secure the best holistic deal. At Black Iron Advisers, we guide entrepreneurs through every facet of the process, from strategy to execution, to ensure the outcome aligns with their vision. In our interview, we dug into why selling takes a different skill set than building and how early planning with a banker can make all the difference. Full clip here: https://buff.ly/hqEBSgT If you’re an entrepreneur exploring a sale, no matter the size of your business, we’re here to help. DM me or bkatsnelson@blackironadvisers.com to start a conversation. #exitplanning #investmentbanking #m&aBoris Katsnelson shared thisBefore I started talking to investment bankers, I had this image in my head—Gordon Gekko, big suits, high-stakes drama. But the reality? It’s more thoughtful than cutthroat. In this clip, Boris Katsnelson from Black Iron Advisors unpacks one of the most common—and costly—misconceptions he hears: “We already have a buyer, so we’re good.” Turns out, getting an offer is just the beginning. We talk about: – Why selling your business takes a different skill set than building it – What most owners don’t realize until after they’re deep in the deal – And when it actually makes sense to call in a banker (hint: earlier than you think) Boris keeps it honest, helpful, and grounded in what matters most—getting the right deal, not just any deal. ▶️ Full interview here: https://buff.ly/hqEBSgT #exitplanning #investmentbanking #m&a Boris Katsnelson is a registered representative of Independent Investment Bankers Corp.("IIB"), a FINRA member broker-dealer. Investment banking services and securities are offered exclusively through IIB. Boris also serves as Managing Director at Black Iron Advisers. Black Iron Advisers is not affiliated with Independent Investment Bankers Corp.
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Boris Katsnelson shared thisBig thanks to Cindy Jennings for a thoughtful conversation on one of the hardest truths in exit planning: the gap between what owners hope their business is worth and what the market will actually pay. In the clip below, we dig into something I see far too often — a founder with a number in their head ($20M), but a market that values the business closer to $10–12M based on precedent transactions. This mismatch isn’t about effort or integrity — it’s about how buyers underwrite risk and return. That’s why preparation, objectivity, and process matter so much. At Black Iron Advisers, our model is fully aligned with the seller — no retainer, 100% contingency-based — because we believe in earning our value by driving results. And a big part of that is helping owners see the market clearly before they go to market. The earlier we start the conversation, the more optionality we can create. 🎧 Full episode here: https://buff.ly/hqEBSgT #exitplanning #businessowners #founderinsights #valuation #MergersAndAcquisitions #blackironadvisers #franchiseBoris Katsnelson shared thisNot every owner is ready to hear what their business is really worth. In this clip, Boris Katsnelson of Black Iron Advisors breaks down one of the toughest truths in exit planning: valuation mismatch between sellers and buyers. He shares how his team helps owners get real about their numbers—and their future—before going to market. We talk about: – Why this disconnect happens so often – How to manage it early (before it kills the deal) This is where psychology meets strategy. And why having the right investment banker makes all the difference. ▶️ Full interview here: https://buff.ly/hqEBSgT #exitplanning #investmentbanking #valuation #M&A Boris Katsnelson is a registered representative of Independent Investment Bankers Corp.("IIB"), a FINRA member broker-dealer. Investment banking services and securities are offered exclusively through IIB. Boris also serves as Managing Director at Black Iron Advisers. Black Iron Advisers is not affiliated with Independent Investment Bankers Corp.
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Boris Katsnelson shared thisHad a great time joining Conversations with Coffey podcast to break down the complexities of franchise finance and capital raises. Big thank you to Guy Coffey for having me on and diving into the real challenges franchisors and investors face when funding growth. We covered key strategies for raising capital, common pitfalls to avoid, and how to approach financing in a way that supports long-term success. If you’re a franchisor, investor, or entrepreneur exploring funding options, this episode has insights that can help. Give it a listen, and feel free to reach out on how these strategies apply to your business! #FranchiseFinance #CapitalRaising #Franchising #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #InvestmentBankingBoris Katsnelson shared this🔥 The secret to franchise success? It’s simpler than you think… In my latest podcast episode, I sat down with Boris Katsnelson to demystify franchise finance and capital raises. As a former CEO of a franchisor, owner of two franchises, and an experienced advisor, investment banker, and private equity investor, Boris brings a unique perspective on funding strategies, common pitfalls, and what it REALLY takes to attract the right capital for growth. A must-listen for franchisors and investors navigating the world of franchise finance. 🚀 Watch or listen to more episodes here: https://lnkd.in/gquvCsBt https://lnkd.in/gQ-nG62N 💬 What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced in growing your business? #blackironadvisors #Franchising #BusinessGrowth #SpeedPro #Entrepreneurship #Podcast #ConversationswithCoffey #GuyCoffey
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Boris Katsnelson shared thisA heartfelt thank you to my friend Wes Barefoot for having me on Path To Freedom Podcast! Wes is a true leader in the franchise world, guiding prospective franchisees with expertise and care. If you’re considering franchising, I can’t recommend him enough—reach out to him! 🙌 During our conversation, we explored what it takes to succeed in franchising. Here are 3 key takeaways: 🔥 Follow the System: Franchisors spend countless hours perfecting their systems. The most successful franchisees don’t reinvent the wheel—they follow the playbook, which drives scalability and profitability. 💡 Culture Drives Growth: I owe a huge shoutout to my friends Omar Soliman and Nick Friedman founders of College H.U.N.K.S. Hauling Junk and Moving for teaching me what culture is all about through their core values. And to Billy Markou, thank you for exemplifying those values for the brand. “Culture is what creates consistency, and it’s the foundation for growth and success.” 💰 Plan for the Exit Early: Franchisors and franchisees who plan their exit from day one—by building strong unit economics, processes, and brand value—are the ones who see the best results when it’s time to sell. If you’re a franchisor or franchisee interested in understanding your business's valuation or exploring strategies to maximize its value and determine the ideal timing for an exit, feel free to reach out. #Franchising #Entrepreneurship #PathToFreedomBoris Katsnelson shared thisIn this episode of The Path To Freedom Podcast, I sit down with Boris Katsnelson, Managing Director at Black Iron Advisers, to uncover the real playbook for franchise success. Boris shares his unique experience from buying, scaling, and selling franchises for millions to advising franchisors and multi-unit franchisees on successful exits. Check out the full episode here: https://loom.ly/01yFpLg #Franchise #Path2Frdm #BlackIronAdvisersHow to Buy, Scale, and Sell a Franchise for Millions – Insider Tips!How to Buy, Scale, and Sell a Franchise for Millions – Insider Tips!
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Congrats James Fox ! They’re lucky to have you. Excited to find some opportunities to bring your way.
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Boris Katsnelson liked thisBoris Katsnelson liked thisThe first move has been made! Day 1 of the International Franchise Professionals Group - IFPG Retreat was a success. We had a great time welcoming everyone, getting settled in, and getting our table ready for what’s sure to be a great few days of conversations, connections, and strategy. The board is set. Now it’s time to #makeyourmove♟️ #IFPG #IFPGRetreat #FranchiseIndustry #FranchiseProfessionals #FranchiseNetworking #FranchiseGrowth #Entrepreneurship #BusinessNetworking #FranchiseSuccess #FranFund
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Boris Katsnelson liked thisHonored to be featured in ACG Insights today. If you run QoE engagements on lower-middle-market deals, you know the feeling: the seller sends over "everything you need" — QuickBooks exports, bank statement PDFs, a few Excel schedules — and suddenly the first two days are gone before the real work even starts. That's the problem we built QoEAgent AI to solve. The article covers the data challenge specific to the lower middle market, why AI can now handle it reliably, and a new concept we call the Flash Proof of Cash — a rapid preliminary cash proof designed for the LOI-to-diligence window when time and information are both scarce. Full piece linked below. Would love to hear from anyone working through these same challenges on deal teams. Association for Corporate Growth (ACG) Tom Yeh Ron Neufeld, CPA/ABV, MBABoris Katsnelson liked thisThe lower middle market has a QoE data problem. But artificial intelligence is making inroads within M&A, says QoEAgent AI, with significant implications for the earliest stages of due diligence. Read more: https://lnkd.in/gU3gZtTS
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Boris Katsnelson liked thisBoris Katsnelson liked thisLook closer. That's not one soap. It's dozens of different formulas. Every batch gets checked before it goes anywhere near a shelf, not because a regulation says so, but because "responsible manufacturing" is a phrase that means nothing if you can't show your work. Traceable sourcing, documented quality systems, packaging decisions that actually reduce waste instead of just claiming to. Buyers are asking harder questions than they used to about where products come from and how they're made. That's a good thing. We've built our business on asking ourselves these hard questions because it's always mattered to us to make great product in a responsible way.
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Boris Katsnelson reacted on thisBoris Katsnelson reacted on thisWe are pleased to announce the close of Fund III with $1.3 billion in commitments. Fund III was significantly oversubscribed within two months of launch and is more than twice the size of Fund II. Princeton will continue the strategy it has employed since its founding: partnering with leading founder-led franchisor and multi-location businesses. We are grateful for the support of our investors and look forward to partnering with the next great Princeton portfolio companies. Wall Street Journal exclusive: https://lnkd.in/euKZQKF8 #PrivateEquity #Franchising
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Boris Katsnelson liked thisBoris Katsnelson liked thisWild to think that 2 years ago I started Grant Drive Group - hitting Year 2 feels different than last year’s milestone in more ways than one. Year 1, I was wrong about my own business. I was hell-bent we'd be go-to-market and implementation advisory but differentiated somehow?? 😅 Capital advisory was an afterthought that a friend pushed me to include on the menu of services. But then the market told me, as it usually does to many founders, that the afterthought was the business. Year one was really just figuring out who we wanted to be when we grew up (and that’s okay). This past year was about clarity & focus. Grant Drive isn't just about introductions. Anyone can send an email. What investors want is readiness - businesses that have pressure-tested their narrative, model, and amount they’re asking for to get them where they want to go. Readiness and coachability are what make you fundable. The rest is logistics. The hardest skill was learning to say no and learning when to walk away - sometimes you forget that since it’s your own company, you can make any choice or pivot you want - you just need to commit once you do, even when it’s hard. Year 3 is about depth & growth - more capability & expertise under one roof, better infrastructure behind how we bring capital to founders, and continuing to grow our community of investors in more ways than one (more to come on that soon 😊). To the founders & investors who took the early bet on us: thank you. Door's open (plus our DMs) to both - here’s to an incredible Year 3!!
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Boris Katsnelson liked thisBoris Katsnelson liked thisWhat a weekend at the IFA world Franchise Show in Fort Lauderdale! On behalf of GNF Worldwide USA, thank you to everyone who stopped by our booth to say hello. We enjoyed reconnecting with friends, meeting new people, and exchanging ideas with leaders from across the franchise industry. It was also a privilege to speak about “Global Franchising: The New Geography of Growth.” The conversations throughout the show reinforced how much opportunity exists for brands willing to approach new markets with the right strategy and local understanding. Thank you to the IFA community for bringing us together. We look forward to continuing the conversations we started this weekend. #IFAWorldFranchiseShow #GNFWorldwide #Franchising #GlobalGrowth GNF Worldwide Lorena López de Castilla Elías Fernando López de Castilla Elías, CFE Emiliano Jöcker Larry Kruguer Paul Rocchio, CFE, IOM Ricardo L. Rivera-Badía CFE CFM Lina Alibegil Evan Goldman Adam G. Wasch Tom Spadea Barry J. Falcon, CFE Manuel G. Solórzano Bernard Ramchatesingh, CFE The IFA World Franchise Show GNF Worldwide
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Boris Katsnelson liked thisBoris Katsnelson liked thisWell we are going to have ourselves a week here at TGRP Solutions. Some exciting stuff coming this week, but before all of that I wanted to spend some time reflecting on a great man that will be the first to retire from TGRP, Kenneth Bardsley CPA. Ken and I talked 3 years ago about him retiring from WOW and coming to TGRP. We were both a little nervous as to what it would look like, but we had known each other for a long time and had done business together. Well over the last 3 years Ken has added a ton of value to TGRP, brought in some amazing relationships and clients and has helped our company grow. I look forward to hearing about your retirement and staying in touch. I also look forward to more adventures on the course. Thanks for the time at TGRP and thanks for the friendship. Best of luck to a great man!
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Boris Katsnelson reacted on thisBoris Katsnelson reacted on thisAfter a long three weeks of traveling, it all culminated in the annual Springboard Conference and I couldn’t have asked for a better way to wrap it up. Springboard is one of my absolute favorite conferences. It’s all about emerging franchise brands learning from seasoned veterans, sharing ideas, and building meaningful relationships. No booths, no distractions — just great sessions, great conversations, and even better connections. Thank you to Eric Arnold and Gretchen Kaufman for hosting an outstanding event at their Xpressdocs office to kick things off. A big thank you to everyone who took the time to connect with me, and to the fabulous Springboard team for putting together another incredible event. Already looking forward to next year! ...and who could forget the fabulous BBQ at Terry Blacks! Darby Crain, Matthew Kunz, CFE, Kristopher Stuart, CFE, Michael O'Driscoll, CFE, Katherine LeBlanc, Bron Launsby, CFE, Brigham Dallas, Tony Hulbert, Michael Hartel, PhD, Boris Katsnelson, Cody Baier, CFE, Braedon Gaudet, Brian Heppner Jim F.
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Tristan Chicklowski
If sellers keep asking for “one more month,” that’s a readiness gap, not a scheduling issue. We’ve learned to separate: - Delays caused by real constraints (tax planning, partner alignment, financial cleanup). - Delays caused by discomfort (fear, identity, uncertainty). Both can be nurtured. But only the first type should stay in an active pursuit cadence. A readiness system gives your team permission to slow down without losing the relationship. That balance is a major theme in our book. #SellerReadiness #BrokerLife #DealFlow #PredictablePipeline https://lnkd.in/e9hRAyGi
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