Startup Exit Strategy: Plan for the Unexpected Term Sheet

By EETimes

December 8, 2014

It's the startup CEO's job to make the inevitable exit a smooth one.

Most startups fit into a predictable framework when it comes to planning an exit strategy. Emerging companies receive funding from an outside investor at some point. This means that an exit or liquidity event is expected in the not too distant future. Traditional venture capital funds have a lifespan of 10 years. Hence, as the fund reaches maturity, the pressure will mount on the startup CEO to find an exit for the company.

However, a startup should not have an exit strategy as a priority. The priority instead is to run the business effectively with the goal of being successful and serving customers. That's not to say that the CEO should not be preparing for a successful exit. On the contrary, reacting quickly and decisively to an acquisition offer is important.

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