Collective 54 Concludes Powerful Reunion with 200 Founders Uniting in Fort Worth

Collective 54 Concludes Powerful Reunion with 200 Founders Uniting in Fort Worth



The innovative community for founders of boutique professional services, Collective 54, has successfully hosted its third annual reunion in Fort Worth on October 27-28, 2025. This exclusive event brought together 200 hundred founders, fostering an environment of trust, knowledge sharing, and connection. Held at the historic Hotel Drover in the iconic Fort Worth Stockyards, the reunion provided a unique platform tailored specifically for members of NAICS 54, which encompasses consulting, IT services, marketing, and more.

The reunion's agenda was curated to foster open discussions, benchmarking among peers, and the development of actionable playbooks. The highly interactive setting allowed members to engage in candid conversations that are seldom available in traditional conference environments. Founders participated in focused sessions designed to bolster their business's growth, enhance profitability, and prepare for eventual exits.

As AI continues to redefine the landscape of professional services, the reunion highlighted the importance of human connections. Being in close quarters with other founders amplified the sense of camaraderie needed for making vital decisions. The unique experiences shared among participants reinforced the significance of partnerships and the relationships that can elevate their firms.

Jeff Klaumann, the President of Collective 54, emphasized the value of this community by stating, “Collective 54 is the most powerful community for founders of boutique professional services firms.” He reiterated that the reunion distilled the most cherished components for members: detailed operational strategies, authentic peer validation, insights into industry trends, and critical relationships that can expedite success.

The feedback from attendees underscored the reunion’s impact:

  • - Michael J. Ivie, Founder and Managing Partner of Eclipse Consulting Group, expressed his gratitude, stating, “Three years in, the Reunion keeps delivering. I’ve met amazing leaders and learned so much; I feel I should be awarding the community instead! The friendships and partnerships I’ve developed here are invaluable.”

  • - Miles Kailburn, CEO of OTM, remarked on the power of such peer communities, emphasizing that, “This was our third year at the Collective 54 Reunion. Nothing replaces being in a room with those who have succeeded in the same challenges you are facing.”

  • - Andrea Fryrear, CEO of AgileSherpas, found the reunion refreshing, describing it as “a pilgrimage – a rejuvenating journey that restores drive and purpose.” She highlighted the reassurance that comes from knowing you’re not alone in the struggles of leading a people-driven business.

  • - Noah Berk, Co-CEO of Aptitude 8, shared his enthusiasm for the event, noting, “I had an incredible opportunity to share insights on stage with industry leaders. The energy from fellow trailblazers redefining the potential within professional services was invigorating.”

Collective 54 supports its members throughout the year with a plethora of resources designed for professional growth and success. Since its launch in January 2020, over 50 member firms have effectively sold their businesses with the guidance and support of this unique community.

The features that define Collective 54 include a select network of peers, actionable learning materials, data-driven insights, personalized coaching, engaging events, and dedicated software tools. This blend of resources provides firm founders with the necessary support to thrive in a competitive landscape. Collectively, the community is committed to serving those in the professional services sector and remains devoted to fostering impactful growth.

Topics People & Culture)

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