Robust Initial Public Offerings Start with Strong Governance, Sarbanes-Oxley Readiness, and Investor Confidence
We help companies navigate the complexities of IPO readiness and Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance with clarity precision and confidence. Like any major transformation, going public requires more than financial statement preparation. It demands strong governance, scalable process, investor-grade reporting, and a control environment that can withstand heightened scrutiny.
Our dedicated specialists deliver tailored, risk-based solutions that go beyond box-checking. We help companies assess organizational readiness, establish strong governance frameworks, mature internal controls, enhance reporting transparency, and embed the policies, technology, and documentation required for public company standards. Whether you’re pre-IPO or already on the path, we guide you through the operational, financial and compliance demands of the journey.
No two IPOs or companies are alike. Whether your company is a high-growth disruptor with a lean finance team or a global enterprise preparing for the next stage of maturity, we tailor our approach based on your industry, size and timeline. Our team aligns strategic goals with practical execution, accelerating readiness without overengineering the process.
“[Sikich] has not only been a service provider but a true partner. They are always available when needed and ensure high-value results. Their expertise and partnership have helped accelerate our internal audit and compliance programs to the next level. The team approaches every project with professionalism, an objective viewpoint, and keen insight to improve business processes and internal controls. We’ve found their recommendations and suggestions extremely valuable.”
Chief Audit Executive
Why Clients Trust Sikich
- Deep Regulatory and Operational Expertise: Decades of experience in SOX, internal audit, IT controls, financial reporting, and public company readiness.
- Strategic and Collaborative Approach: We work closely with leadership, audit committees, legal, internal audit, and external auditors to streamline the process and eliminate roadblocks.
- Audit Technology Enablement: We leverage leading platforms for transparency, automation, compliance tracking, and reporting efficiency.
- Scalability and Sustainability: We align short-term IPO milestones with long-term operational performance and governance needs.
“Throughout the process of developing our internal audit function, the [Sikich] team was able to provide continuous guidance on various internal audit aspects and best practices. Each individual we worked with has been knowledgeable and an asset to our organization. This team is a valued business partner.”
VP & Corporate Controller
IPO Readiness: What Companies Need to Know
Going public isn’t just a transaction; it’s a transformation. With increased visibility comes higher expectations from regulators, investors, boards, and ratings agencies. SOX compliance remains one of the largest and most time sensitive hurdles in that journey.
SOX compliance isn’t just a legal requirement; it’s a signal to investors, boards, and regulators that your company can demonstrate integrity, governance discipline, and financial transparency. Addressing it early helps prevent disruption, avoid costly remediation, and ensure a smoother path to compliance.
Start Early and Don’t Go It Alone
IPO readiness and SOX compliance can feel overwhelming, but they don’t have to. Starting early gives your organization room to design scalable controls, identify process gaps, build governance structures, and align stakeholders. Partnering with seasoned advisors help your company avoid missteps, accelerate timelines, and create a sustainable public company environment.
At Sikich, we support companies at every stage, whether you need targeted guidance, readiness assessments, or full-scale SOX and IPO execution support.
