Valuation Strategies for Small Businesses\u27 Intangible Assets

Small business owners who attempt to sell their businesses may not receive full value if they do not adequately value their intangible assets. The purpose of this multiple case study was to explore effective strategies business leaders used to value intangible assets when considering the sale of their businesses. The participants for this study were 5 business owners in a metropolitan area in the southeastern United States who had successful valuation experiences during the sale of their businesses. Data were collected through semistructured interviews with participants, methodological triangulation, observations, and review of company documents. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis, coding narrative segments, and reviewing secondary data. The themes that emerged from data analysis include collecting and using company data concerning intangible assets; hiring a reputable accounting firm to assist in valuation; understanding the values of brand, customer base, and goodwill; and choosing the appropriate asset valuation approach. To accurately value the intangible assets of their businesses, the most significant and recurring theme in the participants\u27 responses was the need for assistance from a reputable accounting firm. The implications of this study for positive social change include the potential to enhance the economic investment in local areas where business owners appropriately value intangible assets