Photo courtesy of Kevin Browne Architecture.
This story was originally published by Maine Small Business Development Centers. Read the full story here.
Kevin Browne is the founder of Kevin Browne Architecture (KBA), a residential architecture firm based in Falmouth. They focus on thoughtful and lasting designs that cater to their clients’ unique needs.
During the 2008 recession, Kevin started KBA to create a more collaborative design process with clients. Since then, the company has experienced steady growth. To preserve its legacy, they decided to form an employee-owned cooperative.
When KBA began transitioning to an employee-owned cooperative, they found the process complex. To begin the process, KBA contacted Rob Brown, Director of the Business Ownership Solutions with the Cooperative Development Institute. During this process, Kevin then contacted the Maine SBDC and connected with Business Advisor Peter Harriman.
Together, they developed a detailed business plan tailored to KBA’s new cooperative structure. This effort laid the groundwork for a smooth transition. Peter also helped with financial projections and business ownership roles and responsibilities. Kevin shared, “Peter helped us to put together a robust business plan that was pivotal in making our transition successful.”
KBA’s transition was a success, empowering employees to become co-owners of the business. This shift brought new collaboration opportunities, positioning KBA as a pioneering architectural cooperative.
Read the full story on Maine SBDC’s website, here.