As we begin 2026, what’s ahead for the ESOP market?

In this episode of ESOP Radio, Trevor Gilmore and Ben Spade share their Top 10 predictions for the year — from AI-driven owner awareness to partial liquidity strategies, private equity exits, lending trends, and the growing premium on employee ownership culture.

In this episode:

• Why AI and online tools will accelerate ESOP education
• The continued rise of partial ESOPs for Gen X owners
• Private equity firms exploring ESOPs as an exit strategy
• Increased bank appetite for ESOP financing
• Employee demand for ownership as a recruiting advantage
• The possibility of the first cannabis ESOP
• Bipartisan legislative momentum
• Why ESOPs are shifting from “last resort” to strategic tool

ESOPs are no longer niche. They’re becoming a mainstream succession and competitive strategy.

Considering an ESOP? Request a confidential preliminary feasibility review at Menke.com.

Learn more:

• ESOP Radio: https://www.menke.com/esop-radio/
  
  
• ESOP Boot Camp: https://www.menke.com/esop-boot-camp/
  
  
• Menke: https://www.menke.com