Building for Exit [Curricular Events]

These events are exclusive to SLP NYC Alumni.

We will discuss how to be prepared and on point for our exit plan, and learn from those that have completed successful exits on how to build valuable business that will attract larger companies, how to keep legal/finances in order, and more. Class Takeaways: How does one build for an exit from early on? How to decide to sell or grow? How to negotiate? 5:30 - 5:55: Checkin, Meet & Greet, Group Photo 5:55 - 6:05: Opening 6:05 - 6:10: Pairing 6:10 - 6:50: Marina Khidekel (SLP'23) is the founder of Hugimals World, a viral, TIME Best Inventions-winning weighted plush brand that she launched in 2022 after searching for (and not finding) the product she wanted: a high-quality, design-forward, substantially weighted plush designed to hug you back that could ease anxiety in adults as well as kids. She bootstrapped the business to an exit in just under 4 years; in June 2026, Hugimals was acquired by fast-growing toy and game company Relatable (known for What Do You Meme? and Emotional Support Nuggets), where Marina is now Head of Innovation, Hugimals Brands. 6:50 - 7:20: Adam Kirsch (SLP'17) has seen 300+ VC, PE, strategic acquisition and growth equity deals up close and personal, coached 15+ companies through billion-dollar exits. 7:20 - 7:30:Open Q&A and Chat