Partnerships

Trusted Partnerships for a Lasting Legacy

At DSWD, we understand that selling your firm is about more than numbers – it’s about legacy. Our people-first mindset ensures your clients, team, and firm are cared for with the same dedication you’ve shown. Whether you want to retire, continue working, or transition gradually, we provide flexible solutions tailored to your goals.
Choosing the right partner to carry on your firm’s legacy is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. DSWD will take the time to understand your business, your clients, and your values. Our experienced team ensures a seamless transition, keeping your clients’ best interests front and center while honoring the culture and standards you’ve built.

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Our History & Vision

Founded in 2009 by Joseph DeMarco, John Sciaccotta, and Rick Wilkens, DSWD was built with one guiding principle: put people and clients first. From three leaders with a shared purpose, we’ve grown into a full-service accounting and advisory firm delivering tax, consulting, and assurance services, including audits, reviews, compilations, and surprise exams (assurance services provided by DSWD, LLP).

Through our partnership with 119th Street Capital, we can grow intentionally – expanding capabilities while keeping culture, relationships, and results at the heart of everything we do.

Iconic Golden Gate Bridge spanning the San Francisco Bay on a clear day.
A cloudy day view of the iconic Manhattan Bridge spanning the East River in New York City.

Over the past 15+ years, DSWD has welcomed both new team members and like-minded firms into our fold. We’ve created a space where professionals thrive, clients feel at home, and partnerships flourish. Our goal is to continue building a community of people who care about doing great work with integrity.

Did You Know?

  • DSWD is PCAOB-registered and has a spotless record of peer reviews.
  • We’ve successfully completed multiple acquisitions, refining our integration process with each.
  • Our Illinois-based team operates on a tech-enabled platform across the U.S., supported by global resources.
  • Clients nationwide receive seamless support through our local and remote services.
  • DSWD has sufficient capital available through operations and its partnership with 119th Street Capital to invest in strategic growth.
  • We use technology and AI where it adds real value, backed by the support of our team.

What We Look for in Firms?

We are seeking firms with:

  • Strong client retention and a diverse client base
  • Reasonable average hourly rates
  • An openness to technology and innovation
  • Flexibility around transition plans for owners and team
    members
  • A cultural fit that aligns with our collaborative, people-first
    approach

Whether your team joins DSWD or you prefer a phased retirement, we’ll create a transition plan that meets your goals

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Caring for Your Clients and Your Team

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Your clients’ experience is our top priority. We maintain a high retention rate through proactive, transparent, and consistent service. Our smooth onboarding process and communication plan ensures clients feel secure and supported from day one, giving you confidence that your clients are in trusted hands

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And your team is met with a warm welcome! We look forward to meeting them, supporting their growth, and making sure they feel at home with DSWD. We integrate new team members thoughtfully, creating a collaborative environment where their skills and relationships continue to thrive.

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Financial Offers & Flexibility

DSWD provides competitive and tailored financial arrangements that meet your unique goals as a firm owner. Our goal is to create a partnership that aligns mutual priorities, preserves your legacy, and ensures a smooth transition for both your clients and your team.

Ready to Learn More?

Partnering with DSWD means your firm and clients are in trusted hands. Contact us today to discuss your options, explore a potential transition, or start planning your firm’s next chapter.

A Typical Transition Roadmap

Selling your firm is a big decision, and at DSWD, we prioritize a smooth and thoughtful process to ensure a seamless transition for you, your team, and your clients. Here’s an overview of what to expect:

  • Introduction & Discovery
    We start by getting to know you and thoroughly understanding your goals to ensure compatible fit.
  • Assessment & Due Diligence
    Next, we conduct a detailed review of your business to evaluate its strengths and opportunities, beginning the due diligence process.
  • Strategic Planning & Alignment
    Together, we outline a transition plan tailored to support you, your team (if applicable), and clients, ensuring everyone’s needs are met.
  • Close & Integration
    Our team steps in, fully prepared to support your clients as we implement onboarding, setting the foundation for a successful partnership.

FAQs

We’re focused on thoughtful, strategic growth, building a modern, national firm. We’re well-positioned to invest in firms and professionals who share our passion for client service.

Quality over quantity. Our goal is two to three acquisitions annually, ensuring smooth transitions, excellent client service, and successful integration.

DSWD is profitable and is well capitalized via our partnership with 119th Street. Our financial offers are designed to be attractive and flexible, respecting the value of the firm you’ve built.

Our global staffing model balances a skilled onshore team with an experienced offshore team. This allows us to handle peak workloads efficiently while maintaining work-life balance for team members.

Interested in Learning More?

We understand this is an important decision and are here to answer your questions. Contact us today to explore your options, discuss a potential transition, or start planning your firm’s next chapter.

Contact: John Sciaccotta, CPA, Managing Member of DSWD Advisory Group, LLC
Phone: 708-629-7984 | Email: js@dswd-advisory.com