ACG Orlando's 5th Annual State of the Economy
and Outlook on the M&A Environment

, with Harris, Williams & Co., reflected upon the country’s somber mood and how political paralysis could turn ‘Scare Bear’ fears of another deep recession into a self-fulfilling prophesy.

Overall, middle market companies continue to be the engine of the economy and growth is expected to persist, assuming no catastrophes. Companies are holding up from a budgetary standpoint with small businesses expressing confidence in their own companies, but an utter lack of confidence in the nation’s leadership. Corporations are showing an uptick in strategic buying activity and banks are aggressively lending to quality companies. However, the anemic economic recovery reflects business concerns about healthcare and government regulation costs.

Overall, the nation needs a credible fiscal plan with a roadmap to growth that will include education, R&D and a reduction in government regulation.

Thank you to PNC for providing our speakers!

 Up Close With Successful Central Florida Entrepreneurs

When a group of local entrepreneurs came together to share how they achieved success despite the mistakes and challenges encountered along the way, attendees of the February ACG Orlando meeting were treated to rare insights into the traits that drive these extraordinary people. 

Cindy Barth, editor of Orlando Business Journal, displayed her deep understanding of the local business environment, as she skillfully interviewed the panelists.  Guest panelists represented Central Florida’s diverse entrepreneurial population. 

Shari Sandifer began her career as a nurse with great aspirations.  Upon realizing that the average tenure of a hospital CEO is 18 to 24 months, and believing that she could do a better job than her current employer, Sandifer launched Avant Healthcare Professionals.  The company specializes in breaching the gap in the country’s need for health professionals and available resources through the provision of internationally educated nurses and skilled professionals.

Lamenting the $330,000 in debt he incurred, along with the three years with no pay that came with starting his business, Waymon Armstrong, CEO of Engineering and Computer Simulations, shared the great appreciation he has for his wife and family as they supported his dream. In the early years, Waymon assured his wife that her credit would not be affected, as all the debt was in his name, and went on to help his wife secure a job.  Engineering and Computer Simulations employs engineers and artists to develop software technologies that utilize advanced gaming in a learning environment.

Chris King, a graduate of Harvard, attributes his success to "toughness" – a dedication to values and "sticking to his guns".  Elevation Financial Group has prospered under King’s guidance, which he attributes to several mentors.  King cautioned entrepreneurs to maintain control of their business and avoid temptations to grow too fast.    He also advised a "lean and mean" approach to running a business.  Elevation Financial Group specializes in acquiring, renovating and managing multi-unit residential properties. 

Referring to themselves as persistent, passionate and resourceful, the panelists shared their angst at laying off employees in the recent downturn, as well as their most humbling experiences.  Financial challenges and overcoming aversion to risks were softened by the fulfillment realized when lives of employees are profoundly changed for the better.  Creating solutions that save lives on battlefields far outweigh the challenges faced by the individual entrepreneur. And, while the real estate environment has never been more challenging, maintaining focus and developing a culture of success makes the difference with communities and investors.

Thank you to our Bar Host Sponsor!

ACG Orlando's M&A & Capital Raising Strategies for 2011

• Despite the first six months of 2010 being predominantly slow, the next 18 months are anticipated to be significantly busier, based off the last six to eight weeks of increased M&A activity.
• The gates opened a lot during the second and third quarter creating a flurry of activity moving into the fourth quarter. Additionally, with an increase in distressed asset opportunities, banks and sellers are being more realistic about lending money.
  
• As credit becomes available, valuations are ticking up.
  
• There has been and will more than likely continue to be an increase in companies leaving the United States for Europe and Asia to avoid taxes.
• Expect deal flow in 2011 to be similar to 2005 with low growth as it relates to stabilization and much for deal flow depending upon the November election results.

2011 Member Appreciation Reception

February Meeting - Up Close with Central Florida Entrepreneurs - Sponsored by Vasallo Sloane

January Meeting - Real Estate: Engine or Anchor for the Central Florida Economy? Sponsored by MPI.

2010 Holiday Party Sponsored by NPerspective

October Meeting: ACG Orlando's M&A & Capital Raising Strategies for 2011