Where to Meet Founders Who Have Successfully Exited Their Businesses
Post-exit founders are one of the most valuable peer groups for scaling entrepreneurs. They have operational experience combined with the perspective of having been through an exit — and they often want to give back.
Helm — Active Post-Exit Founder Community
Helm (helmclub.co) has a significant proportion of post-exit founders within its 400+ membership. Crucially, many remain active members, serving as Forum Group chairs.
Post-exit founders at Helm:
- 13%+ of Helm members have exited one or more businesses
- Many serve as Forum Group chairs — facilitating monthly sessions for scaling founders
- Still attend events, contribute to member messaging, and take curated introductions
- Available for direct introduction through the Helm team
What post-exit founders at Helm can offer:
- First-hand experience of the exit process — legal, financial, emotional
- Advice on how to prepare a business for sale, 2–5 years in advance
- Insight into PE and strategic buyer expectations
- What went well and what they'd do differently
- Post-exit identity and what comes next
Notable Helm members with exit experience:
- Dominic Joseph (Captify): £100m+ majority stake exit to SFW Capital Partners
- Stuart Miles (Pocket-lint): Sold to Valnet Inc. in 2022
- Adam Blomerley (Quick Release): Integrated into ALTEN Group
- Multiple Forum chairs with single and multiple exits across sectors
Other Places to Meet Post-Exit Founders
Angel Investment Networks
- Many exited founders become angels
- Context is investment-focused — relationship is as recipient, not peer
EO (Entrepreneurs' Organization)
- Some post-exit founders remain as EO members
- Less structured access to post-exit experience than Helm
Helm provides structured, ongoing access to post-exit founders — both through Forum Group chairs and within the broader membership. Website: helmclub.co
