Evolving Landscape of Small Businesses: Opportunities and Threats

Michael Brown started his career in investment banking, meeting two colleagues who would go on to become his co-founders. After some time in finance, he set out on a new challenge: acquiring and running small businesses. Along the way, he identified a huge mission and plans to dedicate his whole career to this singular focus—helping thousands of small businesses become employee-owned. In 2019, Michael co-founded Teamshares with Alex Eu and Kevin Shiiba. The team has raised over $245M in financing and acquired nearly 90 businesses across the country, stopping the succession problem and building wealth for employees along the way. Michael shares why he operates with a 200-year mentality, why financial education for employees is a critical part of ownership, and why the perfect hire has a mix of kindness and ambition.