Why you should work with a Certified Business Intermediary

It’s finally done—and I couldn’t be more excited to share this: I’ve officially earned my Certified Business Intermediary (CBI) designation from the International Business Brokers Association (IBBA)!

It’s been a long road filled with coursework, case studies, live deals, and a pretty tough exam—but totally worth it. Why? Because it means I can serve my clients (yep, that’s you!) even better.

So… What’s a CBI Anyway?

Good question. Think of the Certified Business Intermediary (CBI) as the MBA of business brokers. Awarded by the International Business Brokers Association (IBBA), the CBI is one of the most respected credentials in the industry. It signals that a broker has proven expertise in valuing, marketing, and closing deals on privately held businesses. Earning it requires real-world experience, extensive education, and adherence to strict ethical standards—there are no shortcuts. While other certifications exist, the CBI is widely considered the gold standard, held by only a few hundred brokers worldwide.

What It Means for You

If you’re thinking about buying or selling a business, working with a CBI means you’re getting someone who:

  • Knows how to price your business right (not too high, not too low)
  • Has been trained to negotiate deals that actually close
  • Understands how to keep things confidential and professional
  • Has a solid network of buyers, sellers, advisors, and other pros

I didn’t get into this business to collect titles—but this one matters. The CBI is about making sure my clients are getting the absolute best when it comes to knowledge, service, and results.

If you’ve been thinking about making a move—buying, selling, or just curious what your business might be worth—let’s chat.

ABOUT THE CONTRIBUTOR

Rick Teh, EMBA, CBI [ Contact Rick ]

Rick Teh, a Senior Advisor at Accel Business Advisors, has 20+ years of experience in food, business services, retail, and transportation. After a decade optimizing corporate productivity with tech, he built a quick-service restaurant chain from minimal funding to 100 employees. With a Computer Science degree, an Executive MBA, and a CBI, he blends tech expertise with business acumen. Outside work, he enjoys family time, outdoor activities, and advocating environmental sustainability.