How Do I Value My Stake in a Business?

ByTim Berry

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

We own a security fencing company and a solar technology company. I was trying to figure out what my portion of the company would be worth. I own 8 percent of each company. What's the best way to calculate that? What factors do I need to consider? Are there any resources you'd suggest?
One thing you can do is look into valuation, valuation methods and valuation professionals. Do a web search for "valuation" and see what you turn up for fencing and solar energy. There's probably a formula based on some multiple of annual revenues, but those formulas are always pretty general. They might just be a starting point.

There are professionals who can help you. The problem is that valuations can go all over the map, depending on which formulas are used.

If you have a small business attorney you trust, or an accountant you can trust, they might be good resources. Also, consider taking the problem to one of the more experienced people at the nearest Small Business Development Center. You can find out more about themhere.

Related:你的创业如何价值
Related:Investment ROI Calculator
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Tim Berry

Entrepreneur, Business Planner and Angel Investor

Tim Berry is the chairman of Eugene, Ore.-Palo Alto Software, which produces business-planning software. He foundedBplans.comand wroteThe Plan-As-You-Go Business Plan, published by Entrepreneur Press. Berry is also a co-founder ofHavePresence.com, a leader in a local angel-investment group and a judge of international business-plan competitions.

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