Dear IBBA Members,
As I close out my term as Chair of the Board of Governors, I find myself reflecting with immense pride and gratitude on all that we have accomplished together over the past year. It has truly been a landmark year for the IBBA—and it’s thanks to the dedication, passion, and professionalism of each one of you.
This May, we held one of the most successful conferences in IBBA history, with record-breaking attendance and an incredible sense of energy and momentum throughout the event. The camaraderie, education, and connection that took place there reminded us all why this association continues to set the standard for our profession. And with that success, I’m already excited for what’s ahead—our 2026 IBBA Conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota, which promises to raise the bar even higher.
This year also marked major advancements in member benefits and accessibility. We launched BizPro Value, a powerful new tool now available exclusively to IBBA members. And with the introduction of our new online CBI exam, we’ve opened doors for many more professionals to achieve their Certified Business Intermediary designation. I’m thrilled to share that we’ve welcomed an influx of new CBIs, strengthening our collective expertise and credibility like never before.
Perhaps one of our most significant milestones: we have officially surpassed 3,000 members, exceeding our membership goals and demonstrating the growing recognition of our industry and the value the IBBA provides.
Also reflecting on the past year, our momentum with the Sell Your Way campaign, a major initiative designed to reach the general public and educate potential sellers on the importance of working with a professional business broker, continues to press on. This campaign continues to be a strong voice for our profession—and a powerful resource to support your success.
We are also preparing to release the IBBA DealVault, a long-awaited tool that will significantly enhance market insights and professional benchmarking. And while I can’t reveal details just yet, I can say we have another exciting new member benefit on the way—one that I believe will be a game-changer for many of you.
This year also took me across the globe, giving me the chance to represent the IBBA and foster international collaboration. It was an honor to travel to Australia to attend the AIBB Conference, where we began laying the foundation for future alliance opportunities. I also had the opportunity to attend the CABB Conference and the IBBA Canada Conference in Toronto, each reinforcing the strength and unity of our global community. Meanwhile, Jim Parker and Emily represented the IBBA with excellence during our “Great Affiliate Tour,” connecting with CVBBA, BBF, and TABB members across the country.
On a personal note, I am incredibly excited for my friend and esteemed colleague, Jim Parker, who will step into the role of Chair of the Board of Governors in 2026. His leadership, commitment, and passion for our profession will guide the IBBA into an extraordinary next chapter.
To all of you—thank you. Thank you for your trust, your engagement, your drive, and your unwavering dedication to elevating our profession. Serving as your Chair has been one of the greatest honors of my career, and I cannot wait to see everything this incredible association will achieve in the years ahead.
With gratitude and enthusiasm,
Erin Crawford
Chair, IBBA Board of Governors
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