The International Society of Business Appraisers (ISBA) is a respected international organization dedicated to the appraisal profession¹. It provides training and instruction for individuals interested in determining the value of privately held businesses or ownership interests in such businesses. ISBA offers certification programs, webinars, articles on valuation trends, and access to tools and templates. If you’re curious about blockage discounts or want to explore recent developments in the industry, ISBA’s live webinars and community events are valuable resources. Additionally, their Business Certified Appraiser Certification Program covers all three levels of the Business Certified Appraiser Body of Knowledge (BCA-BOK).

To become a certified business appraiser, you typically need to follow these steps:

1. Education and Training:
   • Obtain a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (such as finance, accounting, or economics).
   • Participate in specialized courses or workshops related to business valuation and appraisal.
2. Experience:
   • Gain practical experience in business valuation. This often involves working under the guidance of experienced appraisers.
   • The specific number of years required varies by certification organization.
3. Certification:
   • Choose a recognized certification program, such as the Business Certified Appraiser (BCA) offered by the International Society of Business Appraisers (ISBA).
   • Pass the certification exam, which covers topics like valuation methods, financial analysis, and ethics.
4. Continuing Education:
   • Maintain your certification by completing continuing education requirements (e.g., attending seminars, reading industry publications).

Remember that specific requirements may vary based on the certification organization and your location. It’s essential to research the details of the program you’re interested in pursuing.