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Advice in the Age of AI at NextGen Finance Symposium

Jane Majkiewicz — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 22:53:12 +0000

Advice in the Age of AI at NextGen Finance Symposium Jane Majkiewicz Mon, 11/17/2025 - 15:53

Grace Garfoot

On Nov. 12, the Burridge Center for Finance hosted NextGen Finance: Tech Innovation in Financial Services, bringing together industry leaders to share insights on launching startups in the era of artificial intelligence.

The future of finance is being rewritten by technology—and students got a front-row seat to the conversation at NextGen Finance: Tech Innovation in Financial Services, a panel discussion about what it takes to build startups in an AI-driven world. The event also offered accounting and finance students a valuable opportunity to network and explore emerging trends shaping the future of financial services.

AI and entrepreneurial advice

Patrick Harrington, head of AI and machine learning at MetaRouter, kicked off the symposium by underscoring that almost 92 million jobs will be replaced by AI—which is 8% of jobs globally. Leeds is preparing students to consider AI’s impact on the workforce and their potential professions. The symposium gave students a unique chance to learn directly from entrepreneurs who have successfully launched startups in an AI-driven era—and to build connections that could shape their own careers.

"This is a profound point in our journey as a society, and it’s a point of leverage that no other human being has had today,” Harrington said. “Five years out with this knowledge base that can support and augment your thought processes, your critical thinking skills are going to become even more important.”

Panelists discussed careers in the age of AI, sharing tips for success and essential skills required to meet evolving demands. They displayed live demos of their platforms, giving the audience a clear picture of how their startups work and the technology’s real-world applications. Through the stories of their own ventures, the speakers illustrated how finance and accounting firms are already embracing AI to transform the industry.

Innovative products that move our industry forward emerge when they address a pain point and deliver a real solution that impacts the people, services and industries facing those challenges, noted Sarah Angello, co-founder of Daffodil.

Networking toward the future

A key highlight of the event was helping students build confidence in networking. Dressed in professional attire, they were encouraged to introduce themselves and engage in meaningful conversations with the entrepreneurs in the room.

Elizabeth MacBride and Seth Levine, authors of Capital Evolution: The New American Economy, joined the event and invited students to ask questions, share ideas and connect with them about the book’s themes—many of which echoed the symposium’s topics.

Capital Evolution is a compelling look at the changes taking hold in America’s political system, information environment and society, according to MacBride. The book asks tough questions about the rising power of business in our economic system. Students left not only with fresh perspectives but also with a signed first edition—a tangible springboard for deeper exploration.

Advice from the Experts

Remember the importance of the human element when considering AI systems. There will always need to be a human in the loop.
Be curious about AI tools and proactively experiment with them. That is how you will learn to use them and be prepared when you enter the workforce.
Do not lose your creativity.
Prioritize building relationships.
Be humble and optimistic, no matter what the circumstances are.
Network! Start conversations and put yourself out there. You never know who you will meet.

On Nov. 12, the Burridge Center for Finance hosted NextGen Finance: Tech Innovation in Financial Services at Folsom Field’s Byron R. White Stadium Club. The event brought together entrepreneurs and industry leaders to share insights on launching startups in the era of artificial intelligence.

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Labubu 'Blind box' Trend Reveals Why Surprise and Scarcity Keep Us Shopping

Kelsey Cipolla — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 17:39:52 +0000

Labubu 'Blind box' Trend Reveals Why Surprise and Scarcity Keep Us Shopping Kelsey Cipolla Mon, 11/17/2025 - 10:39

Marketing professor Ying Zeng explains the psychology behind blind-box toys and how they engage our curiosity, identity and social instincts.

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Government Reopens But Economic Uncertainty Lingers: What Consumers Should Know

Kelsey Cipolla — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 16:07:19 +0000

Government Reopens But Economic Uncertainty Lingers: What Consumers Should Know Kelsey Cipolla Thu, 11/13/2025 - 09:07

Even as the shutdown ends, shoppers and businesses face a murky economic picture heading into the holidays.

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10 Things to Know About Leeds’ New Master’s in Sustainable Business

Jane Majkiewicz — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 20:21:15 +0000

10 Things to Know About Leeds’ New Master’s in Sustainable Business Jane Majkiewicz Wed, 11/12/2025 - 13:21

Jane Majkiewicz

Leeds is now accepting applications for its first cohort in the new Master’s in Sustainable Business program, starting in fall 2026. Approved by the University of Colorado Board of Regents in June 2025, the new degree program is designed to meet the growing demand for sustainability expertise.

Drawing on faculty and resources across �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder, the new sustainability degree program offers an interdisciplinary experience that prepares graduates to lead on climate-related challenges. "What sets this program apart is the way it brings together expertise across campus to prepare graduates to embed sustainability into business strategy,” said Tandean Rustandy Endowed Dean Vijay Khatri. In addition to Leeds' Master's in Sustainable Business, the College of Engineering and Applied Science is offering a Master's in Sustainable Engineering.

Wondering if it's the right fit for you? Here are 10 reasons why graduating seniors, graduate students, early career professionals and those looking to upskill or reskill should consider building their sustainability skillset.

1. It’s a fast track.
Complete the degree in just nine months and enter a growing field. LinkedIn’s Global Green Skills Report 2024 warns that the global workforce is falling short of sustainability targets and calls for doubling the green talent pool.

2. �鶹��Ѱ��seniors are eligible for automatic admission.
Current �鶹��Ѱ��seniors with a Leeds major or minor and a 3.0 GPA or higher are guaranteed admission. GMAT/GRE test scores are optional.

3. It’s interdisciplinary.
Students tackle sustainability challenges through scientific, technical and strategic lenses, with coursework spanning the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Engineering and Applied Science, and Leeds.

4. It’s immersive.
Hands-on learning includes a real-world capstone project and access to case competitions, networking events and workshops through the Center for Ethics and Social Responsibility (CESR).

5. Sustainability is in �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s DNA.
�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder consistently ranks among the nation’s most environmentally responsible universities, earning a 98/99 Green Rating from The Princeton Review’s Guide to Green Colleges. Initiatives like Boulder Climate Ventures reflect the university's commitment to sustainability.

6. Learn from trailblazing faculty.
Faculty in the program are leaders in sustainability strategy, climate finance, ethical leadership and corporate responsibility.

7. From the classroom to the boardroom.
Courses like Measurement and Accounting for Sustainable Systems and Social Entrepreneurship in the US and Global Economies blend business, policy, science and engineering. Bootcamps in statistics, Excel/Python and communication equip students with skills employers demand.

8. Career-ready connections.
Leeds’ strong corporate partnerships and alumni network open doors to roles across industries, such as renewable energy and impact investing. The Leeds Career Development Office is partnering with the Master’s of the Environment program to create key networking events.

9. Be Boulder.
Live and learn in a city known for its climate tech innovation, access to startups and outdoor inspiration—all in a community committed to environmental leadership.

10. A degree designed for impact.
This program isn’t just about career advancement—it’s about shaping a future where business drives positive change. Deloitte reports that 85% of companies increased sustainability investments last year, and green roles are projected to grow 260% by 2030.

Ready to lead? Applications are open. Learn more >>

Leeds is accepting applications for its first cohort in the new Master’s in Sustainable Business program, starting in fall 2026.

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Use AI to Shop Smarter—Not Spend More—This Holiday Season

Kelsey Cipolla — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 16:46:44 +0000

Use AI to Shop Smarter—Not Spend More—This Holiday Season Kelsey Cipolla Tue, 11/11/2025 - 09:46

Ying Zeng, assistant professor of marketing at the Leeds School of Business, shares how to make the most of AI and shopping platforms this holiday season by turning digital tools into an advantage.

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Mark Kroese on Climbing Toward Sustainability

Jane Majkiewicz — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 19:58:02 +0000

Mark Kroese on Climbing Toward Sustainability Jane Majkiewicz Mon, 11/10/2025 - 12:58

Jane Majkiewicz

Former Microsoft sustainability leader Mark Kroese shared practical insights on innovation, skills and market-driven solutions for climate progress at CESR’s Sustainability Bootcamp.

At the Sustainability Bootcamp on November 7, hosted by the Center for Ethics and Sustainability, keynote speaker Mark Kroese (pictured above), former general manager of sustainability solutions at Microsoft, shared practical insights drawn from a career at the intersection of technology, leadership and environmental advocacy. Mark spoke to a packed room of over 180 Leeds students. He believes that we are “at a unique point in history, with unprecedented tools to develop creative and innovative solutions to the world’s biggest problems.” His talk blended actionable advice and optimism rooted in innovation.

Skills over process.
Complying with process is important, but igniting people with ideas and skills is how you go big, he believes. As an avid mountain climber, Kroese drew a parallel to elite climber Alex Honnold—famous for his free solo ascents: “Does he follow process? No. Is he crazy skilled? Absolutely.” His takeaway: Invest in skills. They’re what drive bold, transformative action.

Federal climate subsidies are a must-have to meet sustainability goals.
There’s no way sustainability progress can happen without federal support, believes Kroese. “The might of the federal government is massive. It’s a really big hole when they pull out, and it’s a really big accelerant when they are in.”

Invigorating the blue collar workforce.
Kroese voiced strong support for the blue-collar workforce. “I’ve long thought the trades are undervalued,” he said. “Welders, electricians—these jobs are essential. Data centers aren’t building themselves.” He believes market forces will help reinvigorate interest in these careers.

Career strategy: passion or paycheck?
On the perennial question of following one's passion or pursuing financial stability, Kroese offered pragmatic advice: “Work your tail off in your 20s and 30s. Accumulate assets early. That gives you options later.”

Climate progress and political setbacks.
Asked how to fix climate change progress that has been undone by the current administration, Kroese said what gives him hope is innovation. “It is sad that there is a lot getting undone—it’s shocking, it’s demoralizing,” he admitted. “But market solutions with low-grade premiums will carry the day. If someone builds a cheap, carbon-free fusion reactor, it’ll take off—regardless of who’s in the White House.”

He urged students to keep innovating, even if policy support lags. “Some ideas may sit dormant for a few years. But our time will come. We have to innovate our way out of this problem.”

AI: bubble or breakthrough?
While not an AI expert, Kroese shared a candid view: “AI is an amazing tool—for both good and bad. I hope the good wins, and I hope we have some guardrails.” He emphasized the need for industry-led ethics and regulation, even if the path forward remains unclear.

I can assure you that, in the long run, the thing that will set you apart is your personal brand of human traits and values.

Mark Kroese, former general manager of sustainability solutions at Microsoft

“I can assure you that, in the long run, the thing that will set you apart is your personal brand of human traits and values. We are, after all, called human beings—not human doings,” Kroese emphasized.

The imperative to invest in AI skills is most associated with productivity and GDP growth, he explained. “Certainly, these are important things, but I want to encourage you to also invest in something far less measurable: your humanity.”

It is unique human characteristics—”the nonalgorithmic miracle that is your whole, human self”—that build integrity, trust, empathy and principles, he advised.

“So go out into the workforce and be an AI-informed, but uniquely human, values-based leader.”

A Sustainability Focused Day

At the fall 2025 Sustainability Bootcamp, hosted by the Center for Ethics and Social Responsibility, Trent Yang (pictured left)—Boulder Climate Ventures team member and Leeds entrepreneur-in-residence—spoke to attendees about climate tech investing. Kyri Baker (center), �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder assistant professor of civil systems and architectural engineering, addressed climate-related challenges posed by AI. Branding leader Brenda Tuohig (not pictured), explored the future of media and advertising in an AI-driven world. Following the plenary session, students (right) gathered into collaborative working groups.

Former Microsoft sustainability leader Mark Kroese shared practical insights on innovation, skills and market-driven solutions for climate progress at CESR’s Sustainability Bootcamp.

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Leeds Partners with CEAS to Launch Bachelor of Science in Integrated Business and Engineering Program

Jane Majkiewicz — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 23:00:26 +0000

Leeds Partners with CEAS to Launch Bachelor of Science in Integrated Business and Engineering Program Jane Majkiewicz Thu, 11/06/2025 - 16:00

Claire Stewart

The new IBE undergraduate degree program is designed to prepare students for leadership roles at the intersection of business strategy and technological innovation.

On November 6, the University of Colorado Board of Regents voted to approve the launch of a Bachelor of Science in Integrated Business and Engineering (IBE) degree program jointly developed by the Leeds School of Business and the College of Engineering and Applied Science (CEAS) at the �鶹��Ѱ��.

Blending engineering’s analytical power with business’ strategic insight, this program will produce graduates equipped to lead, innovate and thrive in a rapidly changing, technology-driven world.

“This program is a bold step forward in interdisciplinary education,” said Jennifer Bone, associate dean of undergraduate programs at Leeds. “Our goal is to cultivate leaders who can think strategically, solve complex problems and drive innovation across industries. The IBE degree equips students with the tools to bridge the gap between technical expertise and business acumen—skills that are increasingly in demand.”

"The IBE degree equips students with the tools to bridge the gap between technical expertise and business acumen—skills that are increasingly in demand.”

Jennifer Bone, associate dean of undergraduate programs

The inaugural cohort of students will begin the IBE program in fall 2026, gaining access to a distinctive curriculum that integrates the nationally recognized strengths of �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s business and engineering programs. Students will build a foundation of core business principles and engineering knowledge, with the opportunity to specialize in either Entrepreneurship or Sustainability.

"Employers consistently tell us they need engineers who can think beyond technical solutions to understand business strategy and market impact," said Kurt Maute, associate dean for undergraduate education at the College of Engineering and Applied Science. "This program gives our students that business literacy alongside their rigorous mathematical and engineering training, preparing them for the collaborative, cross-functional teams they'll join after graduation. This degree will provide an excellent launch pad for future entrepreneurs and leaders of tech companies.”

Leeds brings a strong foundation of thought leadership in both sustainability and entrepreneurship, making it the ideal home for the new IBE program. Students will benefit from access to the Center for Ethics and Social Responsibi lity, which champions values-driven leadership and sustainable business practices, and the Deming Center for Entrepreneurship, a nationally recognized hub for innovation and startup development. These centers, along with �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s broader commitment to sustainability—including the recent launch of two sustainability-focused master’s degrees—underscore the university’s dedication to preparing students for purpose-driven careers. �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s designation as an Ignition School for the second year in a row by Inc. and Fast Company further highlights its role as an advocate for entrepreneurial education, community impact and a strong innovative spirit.

The new IBE degree program emphasizes project-based learning, systems thinking and data-informed decision-making, ensuring students graduate with practical experience and a strong professional skill set. Students will progress through the program in cohorts, fostering collaboration and peer support throughout their academic journey.

To learn more about the IBE program, email LeedsIBE@colorado.edu

Leeds’ new Integrated Business and Engineering Program undergraduate degree is designed to prepare students for leadership roles at the intersection of business strategy and technological innovation.

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Career Paths: Shannon Porter’s Unconventional Journey to Finding Her Passion

Jane Majkiewicz — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 20:27:11 +0000

Career Paths: Shannon Porter’s Unconventional Journey to Finding Her Passion Jane Majkiewicz Thu, 11/06/2025 - 13:27

Jane Majkiewicz

Content notice: This story includes brief mentions of sexual assault and trauma recovery.

Life rarely unfolds the way we imagine. That’s one of the key messages alumna Shannon Porter (Mktg’23) shared with students in Bonnie Auslander’s Written Communication for Business Leaders course. In a candid and vulnerable presentation titled “What They Don’t Say About ‘The Job’ After College,” Porter outlined a personal journey that took her from trauma to podcast success—navigating rejection, resilience and discovery along the way.

Her visit to Leeds came with inspiration for fellow young job seekers: It’s OK not to have it all figured out. You can learn as you go and piece things together.

What do you wear in court?

Porter's college experience was overshadowed when she was raped by a close family friend her freshman year (not on the �鶹��Ѱ��campus). She quietly struggled to keep studying, apply for internships, and maintain a meaningful college life while handling something far from typical—pursuing a two-year legal process against her perpetrator, whom she later discovered had also assaulted her cousin and three other women.

During finals the first semester of her junior year, Porter wasn’t just preparing for exams; she was preparing for court. There weren’t too many people she could turn to with questions like, “What’s the right thing to wear in court?”

“Life turned out to look very different than what I had thought,” she said. “I was really struggling. At school, I felt like I was living a double life, dying on the inside as I tried to recover.”

The job search that didn’t go as planned

One of Porter’s biggest surprises after graduation was watching her peers fulfill Leeds’ 90% placement rate—securing jobs within six months—while she waited for her big break.

“I did mostly everything right,” she said, describing her efforts to study hard, engage in class and go the extra mile. She struggled with accounting and nearly failed, but overall, she was “doing the grind.” In her sophomore year, she won the Communication Strategy Case Competition at Leeds, which she now credits with helping her build a foundation in presentation and storytelling skills.

Yet despite her persistence, she still found herself among the 10% of recent graduates without a job. She had envisioned a traditional corporate path and 9-to-5 lifestyle. But after receiving 1,300 rejections—one within minutes—she stopped tracking applications in her Excel spreadsheet.

Finding her voice

Through it all, Porter was discovering her voice. Her presentation at Leeds was a great example. She was warm and confident, demonstrating skills honed through crafting dozens of episodes of "What They Don’t Say: Sexual Assault and Everything in Between." Co-created in 2023 with her cousin Lauren King, the podcast was born from a burning desire to open up dialogue around sexual assault—topics they wished they could discuss with supportive friends.

The podcast tackles raw, unfiltered subjects like “Terrible Pillow Talk: Crying During Sex,” aiming to create space for honest conversations about trauma and healing.

There are many ways to build a meaningful career—even if it doesn’t look like everyone else’s version of success.

Shannon Porter (Mktg’23)

And their message has resonated: To date, they have amassed 18,000 social media followers, 1 million TikTok likes, 80,000 streams and downloads, and more than 800 messages from listeners—and counting.

“Consent is hot”—and so is being scrappy and creative

Since launching the podcast, Porter has done whatever it takes to stay financially afloat while advancing its mission. From selling items on Etsy and eBay to working with nonprofits and creating branded merchandise with the slogan “consent is hot,” she’s been resourceful and determined.

Recognition has followed. She secured an interview with Jess Michaels, a Jeffrey Epstein survivor, for the podcast. That led to Porter’s current role as a part-time social media manager for Michaels’ startup, which focuses on sexual assault first aid. Another milestone was interviewing Susan Bratton, a high-profile relationship and intimacy expert featured on The Diary of a CEO.

Producing the podcast is demanding work. “Every week it can feel like dragging myself behind a vehicle,” Porter admitted, describing both the intensity of the editing process and the emotional vulnerability of releasing each episode. She often wrestles with self-doubt, questioning whether an episode is truly ready. Yet the podcast has become a powerful springboard for broader conversations—fueling consent and sexual assault workshops that Porter is developing and plans to bring to college campuses, including �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder.

“I have pieced together a messy, low-income life in service to keeping this podcast going,” she said. “While there are bad moments, days and weeks, this is an example of a path. The 9-5 job on a corporate ladder is not the only way.”

Three Principles for Staying Grounded

Since graduation, Porter has leaned on a few principles to navigate personal and professional growth.

Show up curious. “There’s something to learn from everyone. If you’re bored, show up more.”
Set boundaries. “Say ‘yes’ first and then learn to say ‘no.’ If you say yes to everything, you’ll deprive the world of what you’re meant to build.”
Use AI wisely. AI tools can be helpful in research and editing, but you never want to lose your unique voice. “I never want to use AI in a way that will outpace the integrity of my brand. Once you lose your brand, it’s hard to get it back.”

Looking Ahead

At the heart of Porter’s work is a commitment to education and open dialogue—especially around topics that are difficult to discuss. She began her Leeds presentation with the concept of a “trust tree,” a framework for engaging in honest conversations about issues like sexual assault. Her approach encourages curiosity, respect and wonder, rather than judgment.

Her message to students was simple yet powerful: “The important thing is to find and do something that will build you up.”

After her presentation, Porter reflected on LinkedIn: “Three years ago, I was sitting in those same chairs applying for jobs and hoping for something great. I didn’t know I’d end up on a completely different path than any I thought were options.”

She continued, “It was a full-circle moment to talk with students about the realities of life after college, and to remind them that there are many ways to build a meaningful career—even if it doesn’t look like everyone else’s version of success.”

Shannon Porter (Mktg’23) turned trauma and job rejections into resilience, building a powerful podcast and an unexpected career path.

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Do Gun Manufacturers Have a Duty to Prevent Violence?

Kelsey Cipolla — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 19:16:19 +0000

Do Gun Manufacturers Have a Duty to Prevent Violence? Kelsey Cipolla Wed, 11/05/2025 - 12:16

A �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder ethicist argues that it’s time to rethink corporate responsibility when it comes to preventing gun violence.

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ETA the Colorado Way

Jane Majkiewicz — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 16:48:22 +0000

ETA the Colorado Way Jane Majkiewicz Mon, 11/03/2025 - 09:48

Jane Majkiewicz

Buying existing businesses is the next big move for entrepreneurs—and Colorado is writing its own playbook with a new conference, courses and a forthcoming Executive Education program at the Leeds School of Business.

Erick Mueller, executive director of the Deming Center for Entrepreneurship, welcomed more than 200 attendees at the inaugural Rocky Mountain ETA Conference.

Entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA) is having a moment as entrepreneurs are buying established businesses rather than starting from the ground up. The timing couldn’t be better: The model addresses the encroaching “silver tsunami” of Baby Boomer business owners ready to retire. And Colorado is ready to lead the charge in an industry ramping up to successfully match buyers and sellers to help valuable businesses not just stay alive—but to flourish. Here in Colorado, the movement is fueled by the startup-driven energy that has come to be the Rocky Mountain region’s hallmark.

Are you search curious?

From startup roots to acquisition routes, curiosity was the theme at the inaugural Rocky Mountain ETA Conference on October 25 at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder. Organizers had to move the event to the UMC’s Glen Miller Ballroom to accommodate more than 200 attendees. The buzz? While ETA isn’t a new concept, it is surging in popularity.

The first conference of its kind in the region brought together acquisition entrepreneurs, students, investors, faculty and service providers to swap insights and best practices. Hosted by the Deming Center for Entrepreneurship with partners Denver ETA Meetup—the nation’s largest ETA group—along with Colorado State University and the Colorado School of Mines, the event featured two tracks for both newcomers and seasoned professionals. Eleven corporate partners added depth to the panels and the networking mix.

The crowd was eclectic. Colorado School of Mines students like Soren Larson, a sophomore in electrical engineering, and Riley Russo, a first year with aspirations in quantum design, came to soak up ETA knowledge. Ruben Helo, a Denver-based real estate broker and investor, wanted to learn the steps toward acquisition, while Brian French, a �鶹��Ѱ��engineering alumnus, and Blake Tretter, a recent Denver transplant who sold a family business in South Carolina, were already active in the search process.

Some attendees, like Brandi Lipton, were new to the concept, while others—like her niece Eliza Grace (MBA’25), co-founder of PROX Search Capital, and Kyle Poulin, a former venture capitalist and now an adjunct professor at Brigham Young University—are already shaping the space.

The inaugural ETA Rocky Mountain Conference, held on October 25, was made possible by eleven sponsoring partners, along with the Deming Center at the Leeds School of Business, Colorado State University, Colorado School of Mines and the Denver ETA Meetup. Shannon Jones and Adam Markley (center photo, left to right) were among the lead organizers.

Why ETA?

As millions of Baby Boomer business owners get ready to retire in droves, the potential picture isn’t pretty—leaving an estimated $14 trillion in businesses, 3 million companies and 23 million jobs on the table. Without a transition, Project Equity warns of a looming small business closure crisis.

Enter ETA, and Leeds is leaning in. Last year, the Deming Center launched an ETA course taught by industry veteran Shannon Jones. He taught a second ETA class and now also teaches Projects in Entrepreneurial Companies. His connection to Leeds began when he approached Tony Tong four years ago and ended up mentoring two students, one who now owns a business.

“ETA is about a transition, not a transaction.”

Erick Mueller, executive director of The Deming Center for Entrepreneurship

For Erick Mueller, Deming’s executive director, the momentum has been student-driven—and it started with a laugh. “When I first heard ETA, I thought they meant ‘estimated time of arrival,’” he joked. Today, he knows the deeper purpose: “ETA is about a transition, not a transaction.” The end game is helping the small businesses that make the backbone of this country—and the communities and jobs they support—thrive.

Collected Wisdom, Especially for Aspiring Searchers

Talk to everyone—brokers, bankers, owners. Intern or work in businesses aligned with your goals, even for free if needed.
Pick one focus—industry, geography or company size—and start there.
Create a one-sheet showcasing your bio, skills and goals.
Tap into the community—search can feel lonely, but it doesn’t have to.
Approach ETA with humility and persistence. Do it right, not fast.
Don’t underestimate soft skills. You’ll interact with employees, customers, vendors and suppliers from all walks of life.
Be aware of the horror stories, but don’t let that deter you.

Pain points and possibilities

“For a while, I thought traditional entrepreneurship was the only way,” said presenter Connor McLaughlin, who acquired a painting business this year. “As I learned about ETA, I realized you get a massive head start—with brand equity and repeat customers. Compared to corporate roles, you’re creating your own destiny.”

But the conference wasn’t all about sugarcoating the journey. The name of one advanced session said it all: “Operating Post-Acquisition: Blood, Bruises, and Bias for Action.”

Panelists in “What Is ETA & Why Do It” acknowledged that while ETA may offer a faster track to entrepreneurship, it still comes with the same headaches—and heartaches—as any business venture.

After months of searching—and one collapsed deal—Josh Moore (MBA’23) said, “I can speak to the headaches officially.” For him, ETA is a long-term vision. The search phase alone can take 18 to 24 months, and luck plays a big role, he said. You need the right business partner and life partner to endure the “emotional rollercoaster.”

Others echoed the highs and lows. Marcela Fernandez, who pivoted from biotech engineering, wanted autonomy and flexibility. Today, she and her husband run a business, balancing work with parenting. Ethan Castro, who bought his first company in 2018 and exited three years later, said ETA gave his family the freedom to live in Spain for a year.

Financing adds complexity. Self-funded searchers often quit their jobs and rely on savings, SBA loans and seller financing—high risk, high reward. Advised Moore, “Ask yourself if you’re willing to go forward knowing it will be twice as long and hard as you think.”

Then there’s the reality of running the business. “It’s not just spreadsheets and decks,” Jones quipped. From hiring challenges to equipment failures, ETA demands grit and creativity. Moore reminded people that at first, you're likely to pay yourself very little.

Fernandez said building a strong culture around core values has been key to retaining talent, and Castro added that managing personalities was the most surprising part: “One company I acquired had employees who were hardworking but exhausted.”

Despite the hurdles, the possibilities keep searchers motivated. “The beauty of search is you’re buying a profitable business,” said Castro. “That can afford you creativity while you keep the business where it’s at.” Fernandez agreed: “Creativity goes hand-in-hand with curiosity. You can see possibility in a lot of industries—and then implement what you want.”

ETA misconceptions

For all its growing popularity, ETA can mislead newcomers. One big misconception? That you need deep deal experience to start. “That’s not true,” said Audrey Kohout, who bought her business three years ago. She and other speakers highlighted the many resources now available—internships, university programs and communities like the Denver ETA Meetup.

Another myth: Buy a company and watch it grow effortlessly. “It’s a lot more than one column in Excel,” said McLaughlin. “Each year is 26 payrolls and hundreds of projects—some winners, some losers.”

There’s also a belief that ETA is easy money. In reality, most buyers invest significant capital, often combining personal savings, SBA loans, seller financing and sometimes support from friends and family.

“There are opportunities out there, but not 0% down deals,” said Marla DiCarlo, a business broker. Aspiring ETA buyers will have to invest something, she noted, admitting that there are plenty of bad deals out there that give brokers a bad reputation.

“We’re leading the way. Let’s all win together.”

Erick Mueller, executive director of The Deming Center for Entrepreneurship

For Spencer Rogers (MBA’25), the biggest barrier for ETA entry isn’t money—it’s mindset and the courage to just get out there and do it. “You get to start on second base—buying a place that is already working. Your goal is to figure out how to add value, learn the ropes and build from there.” As the catalyst for Leeds’ ETA course and the mentee of Jones, Rogers now owns a hospitality business and is deeply enmeshed in the local ETA community.

Ultimately, ETA isn’t one-size-fits-all. “I didn’t think I was going to have the impact I wanted in a big company,” said Kohout, which was her impetus for going through the grueling process of searching. For McLaughlin, it was about being insulated from tech risk. "I was searching for a company with a service that was tangible. That excited me.”

Universities as ETA engines

Across the country, business schools such as Stanford, UVA Darden, Chicago Booth, Northwestern Kellogg and Wharton have defined the academic playbook for ETA.

Now, Leeds is building on that momentum. Mueller believes that the focus on self-funding vs. traditional funding, combined with the region's ethos of innovation, are key differentiators.

And while panelists agreed that an MBA is helpful in turning buyers into operators, not everyone has the luxury of earning their master’s. Leeds is debuting an ETA Executive Education Certificate in early 2026. The two-and-a-half-day program is designed for professionals who want practical tools for sourcing, financing and operating businesses in an intensive, retreat-style format.

Another example, said Adam Markley, the founder of Denver ETA Meetup and PROX, as well as a regular lecturer along with Jones, is a new program that Leeds plans to target to military veterans, who bring an especially strong background in operations to existing small businesses.

Cementing ETA’s future—in Colorado and beyond

If the Rocky Mountain ETA Conference proved anything, it’s that this movement is accelerating.

“The Denver ETA space has changed significantly in the last three years,” said Maggie Givot, who specializes in SBA lending. “Pre-COVID, few entrepreneurs understood SBA financing. Today, it’s a cornerstone of ETA deals—even as competition intensifies, with hundreds of buyers chasing a single opportunity.”

For Jones, ETA’s future isn’t just about deals. “This is about connection,” he said. “Entrepreneurship can feel like an individual sport, but it doesn’t have to be. It can be a team sport.”

Markley emphasized building support for those on the ETA path. “We’re working on access to information through education and partners,” he said. “Now, this industry has a defined community, lingo, lenders and partners. Some older conferences are becoming more specialized. We want this to be one of the preeminent ETA events in the country.”

Mueller noted that many sellers remain hesitant, risking businesses and jobs and the ripple effects. Helping sellers means understanding that “they are not selling a business,” he said. “They’re selling an identity.” His goal: create a heartfelt transition to the next generation.

“We’re leading the way,” he said, pointing to the region’s hallmark vibe—a scrappy, can-do startup culture that sets the stage for risk-takers, doers and dreamers. His mantra? “Let’s all win together.”

The ETA Skillset

During the introductory session of the Rocky Mountain ETA Conference, panelists shared candid insights into the journey of acquiring and growing existing businesses—highlighting both the rewarding moments and the challenges along the way.

ETA takes more than ambition—it’s a mix of hard numbers and human nuance. Here’s what experts say matters most.

Financial acumen: Know how to generate cash flow. Understand working capital and accounts receivable. Personal guarantees mean you’ll do everything possible to repay your loan. If capital is thin, lenders weigh experience and personal history.

Operational grit: In small businesses, things go wrong daily. Learn to smile and solve problems.

Resilience: Shannon Jones put it best: “I want to work with people who’ve screwed things up, own it and learn from it.”

Curiosity and creativity: Openness fuels finding the right fit—and helping a business thrive.

Relationship building: Build trust early with sellers and connect with key customers, vendors and suppliers.

Buying existing businesses is the next big move for entrepreneurs—and Colorado is writing its own playbook with a new conference, courses, and a forthcoming Executive Education program at the Leeds School of Business.

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