MAYNARD, Mass– Wildlife Acoustics, a global leader in bioacoustics monitoring technology, has become a fully employee-owned company through the adoption of an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The move secures the long-term future of the Massachusetts-based manufacturer, known for developing tools that help conservationists and scientists study biodiversity and protect endangered species.
Founded in 2003 by entrepreneur Ian Agranat, Wildlife Acoustics has earned international recognition for its wildlife recording and analysis products. The ESOP transfers majority ownership to employees, giving staff members a direct stake in the company’s future. Agranat, who will remain as chief executive officer, said the decision reflects his desire to preserve the company’s culture and mission.
“I want Wildlife Acoustics to continue serving our customers, employees, and community long after I’m gone,” Agranat said. “Selling to private equity or another company often erodes what makes a business special—its people, its culture, and its mission. Employee ownership ensures our values of equity, collaboration, and long-term thinking remain at the heart of everything we do.”
Agranat, who turned 60 this year, began exploring succession plans in late 2023 and ultimately chose the ESOP structure after more than a year of planning. He compared the transition to sending his son off to college: “It’s bittersweet, but incredibly rewarding to see something you’ve nurtured grow and thrive independently.”
The ESOP reinforces the company’s collaborative culture, where employees have long been encouraged to share ideas, participate in financial transparency, and take pride in mission-driven work.
Wildlife Acoustics’ products have been deployed worldwide to locate endangered species, monitor migration, and study the effects of climate change on ecosystems. Agranat said the transition will strengthen the company’s ability to innovate. “With employee ownership, we’re doubling down on our mission to support scientists and conservationists with the best tools in the field. This is about securing our legacy and our ability to keep innovating for decades to come.”
