Strategic buyers like competitors are often great fits, as they are often willing to pay a premium for synergies between the current business and yours and because they perceive less risk in a familiar industry.

As current industry participants, they can have the capital, infrastructure, and experience to fuel post-closing growth, retain your employees, and safeguard your legacy

A limited auction targets a group of around 50-100 potential buyers (typically around 50) on a confidential basis, and usually involves controlled bidding involving specific stages and timelines designed to create competition and move the process forward.

A search fund is a unique investment vehicle used by entrepreneurs to raise capital from investors for the purpose of acquiring and operating an established, profitable business. The search fund model was first developed at Stanford University in the 1980s and has since gained popularity among entrepreneurs and investors.

Selling to a PE firm can be a great decision depending on your circumstances

Who is the right type of buyer for your business? You need to know who to target during the marketing phase. After the sale, you want to make sure the buyer is capable of preserving your legacy and providing security for your employees. And if there’s seller financing or an earnout, that the buyer is able to run the business successfully so that you get paid.