Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Global Investment Banking for Middle-Market Success
Corporate Finance Associates (CFAW) is an independent international investment banking firm dedicated to serving middle-market businesses. Since 1956, we have specialized in mergers, acquisitions, and capital markets advisory, providing tailored strategies to business owners navigating divestitures, mergers, acquisitions, or recapitalizations. Our senior principals combine the global reach of a large institution with the personalized attention of a boutique firm, ensuring hands-on expertise throughout every transaction. With 32 offices worldwide and over 65 years of collective experience, we leverage a deep understanding of 100+ industries to deliver exceptional results. Our values prioritize client-centric solutions, strict confidentiality, and unbiased guidance, supported by a global network of industry experts.We focus on maximizing value for clients while maintaining independence from lending sources or investment capital affiliates. Our team comprises former entrepreneurs and CEOs who understand the challenges business owners face daily. Headquartered in Aliso Viejo, California, we serve clients across North America, Europe, Asia, and South America. Our commitment to excellence has facilitated thousands of successful transactions, establishing us as a trusted partner for business transitions. We empower clients through resources like our proprietary NextStep exit planning program and specialized industry practice groups.
Services
Sell Side Advisory
Buy Side Advisory
Capital Markets
Exit Planning
Market Value Assessment
ESOP Transactions
Mergers & Acquisitions
Business Valuation
Recapitalization Strategy
Global Transaction Support
Details
- Year established: 1956
Highlights and features
- We offer 65+ years of experience in middle-market investment banking.
- Our global network spans 32 offices across 6 continents.
- Senior principals provide hands-on expertise for every transaction.
- We maintain strict independence from lending or investment capital affiliates.
- Thousands of successful transactions across 100+ industries demonstrate our expertise.
Associations and certifications
- FINRA
- SIPC
Services
Sell Side Advisory
We develop customized divestiture strategies for business exits through sales, mergers, or recapitalizations. Our hands-on approach ensures maximum visibility while maintaining strict confidentiality throughout the process. Senior principals manage all aspects from initial planning to closing.
Buy Side Advisory
Our team identifies strategic acquisition opportunities and facilitates growth through targeted rollups or consolidations. We provide comprehensive support for organic growth strategies and management buyouts while maintaining transaction confidentiality.
Capital Markets
We help businesses secure growth capital, partner acquisitions, or financial restructuring solutions. Our independent advisory services cover debt, equity, and mezzanine financing options tailored to specific business needs.
Market Value Assessment
Our valuation services determine business worth using income, market, and cost approaches. We provide detailed analyses to help owners understand their company's market position and potential sale value.
ESOP Transactions
We guide clients through ESOP implementation, including feasibility analysis, transaction structuring, and capital raising. Our 25+ years of experience covers full and partial ESOP buyouts for companies of all sizes.
People
Jim Zipursky
Chairman and CEO
Joined CFA in 1990, elected Chairman & CEO in 2018. Leads Membership Committee and represents CFA in International Business Law Consortium. Holds FINRA Series 63 and 79 licenses. Completed 150+ transactions.
David Sinyard
Vice Chairman
Part of leadership team for 12 years. Serves as Chief Compliance Officer for affiliated broker-dealer. Brings 35+ years of experience including private equity, hotel industry finance, and commercial real estate.
Questions
What types of companies does CFAW work with?
We specialize in serving middle-market businesses across 100+ industries globally.
How does CFAW maximize company sale value?
We leverage our global buyer network and competitive bidding process to secure optimal offers.
Will I manage the sale process myself?
No - our senior principals handle all aspects from start to finish.
How long does a typical transaction take?
Timelines vary, but our efficient process minimizes delays while maintaining thorough due diligence.
How is confidentiality maintained during sales?
We implement strict protocols to protect sensitive information throughout the transaction process.
Can CFAW help find strategic buyers?
Yes - our 65-year-old network identifies qualified buyers aligned with your business goals.
