Founders and business advisors to discuss building a company with an exit strategy in mind
COLUMBIA, Md., (August 11, 2025) — TEDCO, Maryland’s economic engine for technology companies, announces the panel “Reverse Engineering Your Exit: Growth with the End in Mind,” taking place during the upcoming 2025 Entrepreneur Expo. This year’s event will be held at The Hotel at the University of Maryland on October 21, 2025.
Too often, startups focus exclusively on product and early traction without thinking about the long-term outcome. This session challenges that approach, exploring how founders can proactively align their growth strategy, partnerships and funding decisions with an intentional path toward exit, whether that’s mergers and acquisitions (M&A), initial public offering (IPO) or succession.
“What if you could design your business backward from the exit you want?” said Graham Dodge, vice president, Venture Development, TEDCO. “This panel invites founders to think beyond the now and make choices that set them up for meaningful outcomes later.”
- Moderator: Graham Dodge, TEDCO
- Nancy Dillman, Clear Fracture LLC
- Benga Erinle, ATOLLO
- Abba Poliakoff, Gordon Feinblatt LLC
Key discussion topics for this panel include:
- How to align operations and capital strategy with exit goals
- What M&A, IPO and succession paths require in today’s market
- Lessons from founders and advisors who’ve been through it
Whether you’re planning to scale, sell or sustain, this session will equip you with frameworks to grow intentionally with your exit in mind.
TEDCO’s Entrepreneur Expo is Maryland’s premier gathering for entrepreneurs, business owners, investors and thought leaders to connect, learn and be inspired. This year’s event promises a full day of interactive workshops, insightful discussions and dynamic pitches from emerging companies.
Don’t miss your chance to attend this “can’t miss” event! Tickets are limited, so secure your spot now and get ready for a day filled with learning, networking and inspiration.