Blank Rome partner Michael S. Swoyer will serve as a Host Committee member and panel moderator at Smart Business Dealmakers Conference Philadelphia, being held at the Union League of Philadelphia on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with a cocktail reception to follow.

About the Conference

The conference connects thousands of local dealmakers—from middle-market chief executive officers to top investors and lenders to leading mergers and acquisitions (“M&A”) advisers. With sessions ranging from raising capital to buying and selling companies to alternative asset investing, it covers the breadth of the M&A landscape.

Michael’s session, “Navigating the M&A Process: From Preparation to a Successful Close,” will take place from 10:00 to 10:40 a.m.

About the Session

Selling a business can be one of the most consequential decisions an owner will make—and navigating the process requires careful planning at every stage. This panel brings together experienced dealmakers to examine today’s M&A environment and walk through the critical decisions sellers face along the way. From preparing the business and understanding valuation to evaluating private equity, strategic and family office buyers, negotiating key deal terms, and managing diligence, learn how owners can position themselves for a successful transaction, maximize value, and avoid common mistakes that can derail a deal

Panelists:

  • Moderator: Michael Swoyer, Partner, Blank Rome
  • Andrew Castano, President, Emmy Squared Pizza and Ruby Slipper Restaurant Group
  • Christopher Cortina, Executive Director, J.P. Morgan Private Bank
  • Michael Derins, Private Investor, Board Director & Advisor; Former Chief Executive Officer, The Archer Group

Other conference sessions include:

  • Built to Matter: Joan Carter on Business, Leadership, and a Life of Impact
  • Beyond the Traditional Acquisition: Exploring Alternative Paths to Growth
  • The Liquidity Continuum: Finding the Right Deal for You and Your Business
  • Hidden M&A Landmines: Finding the Risks That Can Derail a Deal
  • The Economic Outlook: What’s Ahead for Business, Markets and M&A
  • Deal Ready: Assessing Your Readiness for What Comes Next
  • What’s Next for the Family Business? Evaluating the Paths Ahead
  • Anatomy of a Deal: A 360° Look at What Really Makes a Transaction Work

The conference will also feature the Dealmakers of the Year Awards Presentation, the Dealmakers Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, and several networking sessions.

Blank Rome LLP is proud to be a Supporting Sponsor of the conference.

For more information, please visit the event webpage.