Frequently Asked Questions
The questions founders most often carry quietly.
These are the questions we hear most often in early conversations. Answers are plain and intentionally short. Anything more nuanced is better discussed in person.
Topic
Control & governance
Do I have to sell the whole business?+
No. We frequently acquire majority, minority, or fully-flexible positions. Many of our partnerships allow founders to take some capital off the table while remaining meaningfully involved.
Will I lose control of day-to-day decisions?+
Operational control typically remains with the existing leadership team. Our role is governance, capital, and considered support - not day-to-day management of businesses we have just met.
Will you replace the management team?+
Almost never. The team you have built is usually the reason the business works. We may add capability over time, but we do not arrive with a replacement plan.
Topic
Timelines & process
How long does the process take?+
Most partnerships move from first conversation to completion in around eight weeks. We can move faster when both sides are ready, and we are content to move more slowly when the founder needs time.
What do you need from me at the first conversation?+
Nothing in writing. The first conversation is informal and confidential. We listen first and only ask for information once both sides see a potential fit.
Do you require exclusivity?+
Only at the point of indicative terms, and for a defined period. Earlier conversations carry no exclusivity obligation on either side.
Topic
Confidentiality
Will my staff, customers, or suppliers find out?+
Not from us. We never approach staff, customers, or suppliers without explicit written permission from the founder. Confidentiality is the default of every conversation.
Will my name appear on your website?+
Only with your permission. Many of our partnerships are described only in outline, and several are not described publicly at all.
Topic
Valuation & terms
How do you arrive at a valuation?+
We work from a clear, transparent framework based on the business's earnings, quality, and growth potential. We share our reasoning openly rather than producing a number without context.
Do you use heavy debt to finance acquisitions?+
No. We use family office capital. We do not rely on aggressive leverage to make a transaction work, and we do not impose debt service that compromises the business.
What kinds of structures can you offer?+
Partial liquidity, growth capital, full acquisition, majority or minority investment, succession partnerships, management buyouts, and long-term ownership transitions.
Topic
After investment
What changes on day one?+
Very little. The leadership team continues to run the business. Reporting, governance, and capital decisions are formalised; the operating rhythm of the company stays intact.
How long do you hold?+
We are happy to hold indefinitely. We have no fund-life obligation forcing an exit, and we judge each partnership on what is right for the business over a decade or two - not a quarter.