Category: Wingspan Insights
Family Business: The Next Chapter Is Female
Women are transforming family enterprises worldwide, moving from behind-the-scenes influence to visible leadership. This piece highlights global examples of women leading family firms and offers five actionable steps for families...
Is an MBA Worth It? What Rising Gens in Family Enterprises Need to Know
An MBA isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer for family enterprise Rising Gen. Here’s how to evaluate if the investment aligns with your role, timing, and goals.
Legacy Before Logistics: Choosing Between a Foundation and a Donor-Advised Fund
Foundations and donor-advised funds each offer distinct advantages for families. The right choice depends less on mechanics and more on purpose—how you want your giving to shape legacy, governance, and...
The Giving Pledge at 15: Progress, Shortfalls, and the Path to Real Impact
Fifteen years after its launch, The Giving Pledge has inspired conversations but fallen short on results. With trillions set to change hands in the coming decades, it’s time to move...
Keeping the Spark Alive: How Enterprising Families Can Sustain an Entrepreneurial Legacy
How can families keep the entrepreneurial spirit alive across generations? This piece explores how both business-owning and “quick exit” families can pass down not just wealth, but the mindset that...
Before the Deal: Preparing the Family for the Sale of the Business
Selling the family business is more than a financial decision—it’s a turning point for founders, Rising Gen members, and the family as a whole. This guide outlines key questions, roles,...
“We’ll Figure It Out When I Get There” Is Not a Career Plan: The Case for Clear Roles and Responsibilities for Rising Gens
Too many Rising Gens enter the family business without a real title, job description, or clear expectations. This article explores why defined roles and responsibilities aren’t just helpful—they’re essential for...
Avoiding Conflict Over Pay in a Family Business
Paying relatives in a family business can get emotional fast. This article offers guidance on how to set compensation that’s fair and competitive—while keeping the peace at home and in...
Power and Responsibility: The Trade-Offs of Concentrated Ownership
Exploring the benefits and risks of concentrated ownership, this article examines how control in the hands of a few—whether families, founders, or long-term investors—can drive strategic clarity or lead to...
