You walk into some conferences and you feel like a guest. You shake hands, swap business cards, attend sessions, and head home.
The Big Exit wasn’t that.
From the very first conversation, this was different. It wasn’t just an event—it was a community.
We often think of communities as places. But the most impactful communities are rooted in a shared sense of belonging and purpose. This was a room full of people who understood each other’s challenges, celebrated each other’s wins, and genuinely wanted to help each other grow.
It was the kind of community Innovatemap is built to serve. And the kind we’re proud to contribute to.
Like any great experience, we left with new insights, deeper relationships, and fresh energy to help companies solve their biggest product and go-to-market challenges.
Celebrating Our Partners
One of the most rewarding parts of the conference was watching two of our partners take home top honors. PMWEB and TrustArc both received well-deserved recognition, and I celebrated like a proud parent in the stands.
TrustArc capped the evening with the Big Exit Award. After working closely with their team over the past year, it was especially meaningful to see their momentum recognized on that stage.
And PMWEB didn’t just win—they swept three awards, celebrating their product and brand transformation that we had the privilege to support.
Both are among the most successful companies in the Bregal Sagemount portfolio, and it meant a lot to know our work played a small part in their continued success.
Moments like that remind me why we do what we do. Helping product-led visions come to life is our passion, and it’s deeply fulfilling to see that work turn into real business impact.
Strategic Insights and Valuable Connections
One of the most powerful takeaways from the Big Exit Summit was the caliber of companies in the room. We were surrounded by high-performing, growth-focused organizations, many of which are in the midst of significant product and market transformations.
What stood out to me was the shift in focus. Many are moving from sales-driven growth to a more product-led approach. This evolution requires a deep understanding of both user needs and market demands. It’s about building not only the right products but also ensuring they resonate with the right audiences.
We saw a strong trend toward reinvestment in product and innovation. These organizations are achieving strong growth and are now looking to scale their products effectively. This is exactly the kind of environment where a strategic partner like Innovatemap can make a meaningful difference, helping guide product and go-to-market strategies for continued success.
In addition to seeing where the industry is headed, it was clear that a strong community isn’t just about gathering the right people—it’s about building long-term relationships that drive real value. And that’s the kind of work we’re excited to continue contributing to.
Market Trends Worth Watching
No conference recap would be complete without highlighting some key market trends.
AI was a dominant topic throughout the event. Two-thirds of IT budgets are reportedly being allocated to AI initiatives. While software sales may be tightening in some areas, companies are eager for guidance on how to leverage AI effectively. Many CEOs admitted they’re feeling behind and are willing to invest to catch up.
Another trend? Efficiency. Companies aren’t just cutting headcount, they’re focusing on doing more with less. That puts a spotlight on product design, user experience, and internal tools that can scale smartly.
As always, our job is to help clients respond to these shifts, not just react. And we’re already in motion.
Looking Ahead
Being around a group of successful leaders and genuine people always reenergizes me. Leaving Nashville, I’m motivated to build on our partnership with the Growth Factors and Bregal Sagemount teams. I’m excited for what’s ahead for TrustArc and PMWEB, and I look forward to building new partnerships with the companies we connected with.
This summit reinforced what we’re building at Innovatemap and sharpened my focus on what’s ahead.
Beyond the business opportunities and insights, I’m grateful to the Big Exit community for welcoming us as a trusted partner. Being surrounded by people who are building something meaningful—that’s the kind of community Innovatemap wants to be a part of. And that’s the kind of partner we strive to be: one that listens, learns, and grows alongside the companies we work with.
At the end of the day, the most memorable part wasn’t a lead or a deal, it was the quality of the people. Being welcomed into a group of leaders who are building meaningful companies and creating powerful solutions is the kind of community Innovatemap is proud to be part of.
And that’s the kind of partner we’ll continue to be.
