Bio

Franco Silva joined Prairie Capital Advisors in 2007 and is a shareholder in the firm. He specializes in advising middle-market companies on mergers and acquisitions (M&A), employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) advisory, fairness opinions and other investment banking advisory services. Franco serves as a trusted advisor to a diverse range of middle-market companies nationwide delivering highly strategic consultation and financial advisory services. In addition, Franco has been instrumental in developing Prairie’s sustainability practice. He also completes numerous transactions each year, delivering the best possible outcome for his clients. Franco also leads professional roundtables and educational seminars for Prairie’s ESOP partners and for business owners contemplating an ownership transition event. Franco is a frequent speaker in forums around the country, including the National Center for Employee Ownership and The ESOP Association, on topics covering ownership transition planning, ESOP advisory, capital management, succession planning and more. In addition, Franco is a past President of The Illinois Chapter of The ESOP Association and continues to be actively involved in the chapter’s communication executive committee. He has also published a white paper on the sustainability of ESOPs as well as an article for the Construction Financial Management Association. Additionally, Franco was recognized as a Top 40 Under Forty Honoree in 2019 by the National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts (NACVA).