Why Selling Local Matters: More Than Just a Deal
This past weekend, we were proud to be the valet sponsor the Dayton Art Ball—a celebration of creativity, culture, and community. What made the event even more meaningful was seeing so many local businesses step up as sponsors, including two we recently helped transition to new ownership: Oregon Express and Bill’s Donuts.
Both businesses, now owned by local buyers, didn’t just show up—they gave back. Oregon Express donated their signature pizzas, and Bill’s Donuts delivered trays of their famous donut holes for guests to enjoy. That’s the kind of local generosity that keeps Dayton vibrant.
When businesses are sold to buyers who live and work in the community, something powerful happens: the legacy lives on. Jobs stay local. Dollars are reinvested. And support for events like the Art Ball continues to grow.
Private equity can offer financial upside—but it often lacks roots. Local owners bring something deeper: commitment. They’re part of the community fabric. They know that strong businesses help build strong neighborhoods, and they show up again and again.
Selling your business isn’t just about the highest price. It’s about finding the right buyer—someone who sees your business not just as an asset, but as a pillar of the local economy.
At Sunbelt, we’re proud to help business owners find successors who care as much about legacy as they do about growth. Because when businesses stay local, everyone wins.
