From Local to Global: How Andy Cagnetta Built a Business Brokerage Empire
From Local to Global: How Andy Cagnetta Built a Business Brokerage Empire
South Florida’s Andrew “Andy” Cagnetta is more than just the CEO of Transworld Business Advisors—he’s a visionary who transformed a small brokerage into a global powerhouse. His journey is one of perseverance, innovation, and purpose, marked by a deep commitment to his industry and community.
Building a Global Brand
Andy’s professional journey began in 1995 when he entered the world of business brokerage as a sales agent. By 1997, driven by his entrepreneurial spirit and belief in the industry’s potential, he purchased the company. At the time, Transworld was a modest local firm—today, it stands as the world’s largest business brokerage organization.
Under Andy’s leadership, Transworld Business Advisors has grown to more than 250 offices across six continents, with an international footprint that includes Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, the Middle East, and beyond. Transworld has facilitated over 15,000 successful business transactions globally, becoming a go-to partner for entrepreneurs seeking to buy or sell businesses of all sizes—from mom-and-pop shops to multi-million-dollar enterprises.
Andy’s forward-thinking approach has made Transworld synonymous with integrity, expertise, and global scalability. His expansion strategy involved developing a proven franchise model that empowers local entrepreneurs to serve their communities while being backed by a trusted international brand. This structure has enabled Transworld to replicate its success in diverse markets while maintaining consistent quality and service.
Through strategic partnerships, robust training programs, and a commitment to innovation, Andy has positioned Transworld as a trusted advisor for buyers, sellers, and franchisees. His deep understanding of the market, coupled with his ability to anticipate shifts in the economy and business landscape, continues to drive the company’s global growth.
Last year, Andy was inducted into the inaugural International Business Brokers Association (IBBA) Hall of Fame for his service, leadership, and educational contributions to the business brokerage profession. His dedication to mentoring the next generation of brokers has further solidified his legacy within the field.
Making an Impact, Locally and Globally
Though his professional reach spans continents, Andy remains deeply rooted in the South Florida community—and is widely recognized as a philanthropic force for good. For over 20 years, he hosted Andy’s Pasta Dinner, a beloved annual event that has raised millions of dollars for LifeNet4Families, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending hunger and homelessness in Broward County. What began as a small dinner with friends has evolved into one of the region’s most impactful charity events, drawing hundreds of community and business leaders who rally together for a meaningful cause.
Andy serves on the National Board of Directors for Compass Pro Bono, a national nonprofit that connects business professionals with local nonprofits in need of strategic guidance. Through this role, Andy helps foster sustainable, mission-driven growth for countless organizations, leveraging his business expertise to drive nonprofit success.
His commitment to civic leadership extends even further—Andy serves on the board of United Way of Broward County, where he advocated for economic mobility initiatives, and was on the board of Junior Achievement of South Florida, mentoring future entrepreneurs and supporting financial literacy for youth.
Whether leading volunteer-driven strategy sessions or galvanizing community support around local causes, Andy is deeply invested in creating long-term, measurable impact. His approach to service mirrors his leadership in business: hands-on, values-driven, and focused on building better futures. From hosting fundraisers to mentoring students and empowering nonprofits, Andy brings purpose to everything he does—proving that true leadership begins with giving back.
Elevating the Game—Literally
In a dynamic move that bridges business and community engagement, Andy recently spearheaded a multi-year national partnership between Transworld Business Advisors and USA Pickleball, the sport’s official governing body in the U.S. This collaboration underscores Transworld’s dedication to supporting health, teamwork, and youth development through sport.
As part of the partnership, Transworld is a featured sponsor of major national tournaments—including the 2024 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships—and contributes to USA Pickleball’s charitable efforts. In addition, the Transworld Adopt-A-School program introduces pickleball to underserved communities by hosting introductory clinics and providing schools with nets, paddles, and balls. The goal is to make the sport accessible to students of all backgrounds, promoting physical activity, inclusivity, and teamwork from an early age.
Through this initiative, Andy and Transworld are not just supporting a fast-growing sport—they’re creating opportunities for youth empowerment and healthy lifestyles across the country.
Sharing the Journey
Andy is also the voice behind the recently launched Coffee with Cagnetta podcast, where he engages with trailblazing business leaders about the highs, lows, and lessons learned in entrepreneurship. Available on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Audible, and YouTube, the show features in-depth conversations with influential figures such as Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, former CEO of Celebrity Cruises; Kathleen Cannon, CEO of United Way of Broward County; Kelley Shanley, former President & CEO of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and current Interim Director at the Alan B. Levan | NSU Broward Center of Innovation; Edward Dikes, the CEO and founder of Weston Jewelers; Michael Udine, Broward County Commissioner; and more.
These episodes delve into topics ranging from digital marketing evolution to local economic development, offering listeners valuable insights into leadership and innovation. The podcast’s YouTube channel YouTube complements the audio experience with visual content, making it accessible to a broader audience.
Andy’s passion for sharing knowledge and elevating others continues to shape his journey—just as much as the businesses he helps build every day.
About Transworld Business Advisors:
Transworld Business Advisors® (TBA) is among the United Franchise Group™ (UFG) family of affiliated brands. With over 40 years of business brokerage experience, Transworld Business Advisors is in the business of helping buyers and sellers connect, conducting franchise consultations, and supporting franchise development. The company represents acquisition-minded corporations or individuals interested in owning their own company or franchise. From business brokerages to mergers and acquisitions, Transworld Business Advisors are business sales specialists that represent numerous listings across multiple industries. For more information about Transworld visit www.tworld.com and for information on owning a Transworld franchise, visit www.tworldfranchise.com.
