For Intermediaries
Working with Brokers & Advisors
We're an operator-led private investment firm focused on established businesses, primarily B2B, with up to $2M in adjusted EBITDA in the Great Lakes and Midwest. On larger transactions, we work as an independent sponsor alongside capital partners we already know. We also selectively consider hospitality and restaurant businesses. If your client is considering a sale or needs financial and operating support while keeping the business, we'd like to talk.
Why We're a Good Buyer
A clear financing sourcing approach.
Personal capital in every deal, SBA and conventional lender relationships, and co-investors I already know for larger transactions. I'm pre-qualified for SBA 7(a) financing, and I can provide a current letter upon request.
Steady when it gets hard.
We stayed current on debt service through a year when revenue fell by more than half.
Price discipline.
We explain the assumptions behind our offer up front. If diligence confirms them, the price holds. If something material changes, we raise it promptly and explain why.
Direct access.
You work with David, who leads the evaluation, the negotiation and the operating transition.
Respect for the owner.
Clear communication, thoughtful transition planning, and respect for the owner's priorities.
Our Sweet Spot
Ideal deals
- Owner-operator succession (founder ready to step back, cares about continuity)
- Up to $2M in adjusted EBITDA. Revenue is typically $3M to $10M; smaller businesses that fit well are welcome.
- Great Lakes and Midwest, generally within a four-hour drive or nonstop flight of Chicago. We'll look further for a strong fit.
- Primarily B2B businesses with repeat customers; institutional customers are a particular fit.
- Hospitality and restaurant businesses with a strong operating record and a management team in place.
- Capable management in place, or a practical plan to transfer the owner's responsibilities.
- A transition that fits the business and the owner's goals.
We pass on
- Turnarounds requiring immediate rescue
- Significant single-customer concentration without a clear retention thesis
- The other exclusions listed on Deal Criteria
Process & Timeline
Later milestones are typical targets once the necessary information is available. We agree on a practical schedule with the seller and advisors; diligence and financing can affect timing.
Step 1
Initial Review
Within two business days
Clear yes or no with reasoning, or what we need for the next step. A quick no is better than a slow maybe.
Step 2
Preliminary Indication
7–10 days
Valuation range, structure outline, financing sourcing approach.
Step 3
LOI
10–14 days from detailed CIM
The LOI sets out price, structure, key assumptions, and a practical diligence and closing plan. We explain the basis of our offer and coordinate the next steps directly with the seller and advisors. If a material diligence finding changes the economics, we raise it promptly and explain its effect.
Step 4
Close
60–90 days post-LOI
Concurrent diligence and financing.
Introductions from Professional Advisors
You often hear an owner's transition plans before a sale process begins. We welcome introductions from CPAs, wealth advisors, attorneys, brokers, and investment bankers. With the owner's permission, we can discuss an acquisition or a defined financial and operating engagement. We'll keep you involved and coordinate with your existing relationship.
For owners who plan to keep the business, support can include cash-flow planning, reporting, profitability analysis, and operating execution. The owner agrees to the scope, responsibilities, and fees directly.
For brokers and bankers bringing an off-market opportunity, agree on any fee in writing before the introduction.
Submit a Deal
To get started, send:
- One-page executive summary
- Three-year financials (revenue, EBITDA, margins)
- Business model overview
- Seller motivation and timeline
- Any red flags or unique circumstances
You'll receive an initial view of fit within two business days. A teaser or one-page summary is enough to start; fuller financials can follow if there's a fit.
Questions?
An experienced buyer and operator. David has completed an SBA-financed acquisition, integrated three add-on acquisitions, and refinanced an operating company's debt. A current SBA pre-qualification letter is available on request.
Structure flexibility: We work with sellers and their advisors to shape a transaction and transition that fit the business and the owner's goal