Merit Financial Advisors has completed the acquisition of Blueprint Wealth Advisors, a strategic transaction that strengthens Merit’s presence across the Midwest and brings $1.2 billion in additional assets under management. The deal expands Merit’s reach across Illinois and Wisconsin, introduces the firm to the Chicago market, and adds a high-performing team recognized for serving high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth clients.
Blueprint operates offices in Chicago and Rockford, Illinois, and Fitchburg, Wisconsin, and is known for its proprietary Capstone Method, a planning process designed to guide clients through complex financial needs. By joining Merit, Blueprint gains access to a broader suite of resources and services beyond what its prior broker-dealer relationship offered. For Merit, the acquisition brings experienced leadership and a track record of organic growth that aligns with the firm’s long-term expansion strategy. Blueprint Managing Partners Ryan Evans and Nick Wilkins will join Merit as Regional Directors and Partners, along with their teams.
The transaction represents Merit’s fifty-second acquisition and follows its recent partnership with Mennenga Tax & Financial, a deal that added $715 million in assets and expanded Merit’s tax planning capabilities. The acquisition of Blueprint further positions Merit as a significant consolidator in the wealth management sector as the firm scales both its advisory platform and its national footprint.
Merit Financial Advisors, based in Atlanta, supports both RIA and independent broker-dealer models through its network of more than 55 offices nationwide. As of September 30, 2025, the firm managed $20.78 billion in combined advisory, brokerage, and retirement assets. Its mission is to transform the client experience while building a next-generation wealth management platform. Constellation Wealth Capital, an investment platform focused on the wealth management sector, continues to support Merit’s growth efforts by providing long-term capital and strategic expertise.
Support: FP Transitions served as advisor on the transaction. Financial and legal terms were not disclosed.
KEY QUOTES
“Bringing Nick, Ryan, and the Blueprint team into our organization represents a pivotal moment in our growth strategy. They bring top talent, experience serving high-net-worth clients in the Chicago and Madison, WI areas, and proven leadership to help us continue growing Merit’s impact. This is truly a transformational partnership for us.”
Zach Mersberger, Managing Principal and Partner at Merit
“Partnering with a larger firm that shares our culture was important to us, both for supporting continued growth and for enhancing the resources and services we can offer our clients.”
Ryan Evans, Managing Partner and Wealth Advisor at Blueprint
“Merit’s culture and values closely align with our own, making this a natural fit for our team and our clients. This partnership strengthens our ability to lead, grow, and continue delivering a high level of care to clients.”
Nick Wilkins, Managing Partner and Wealth Advisor at Blueprint
