The Hunt: How Private Equity Firms Find You
Whether or not you are interested, a number of private equity
firms would likely want to get to know you better. Some private
equity firms employ business development professionals whose sole
role is to find potential companies that fit a particular
investment strategy, so you will probably hear from them on cold
calls or see them at trade shows or other industry events.
Most are more targeted than that, however. They may already have
investments and expertise in your industry. They may own one or two
of your competitors. They may maintain relations with investment
bankers who would also like to work with you.
Even if you are not considering a sale now, you can hear their
pitch and learn something about the other companies in their
portfolios. Most investment bankers and private equity principals
are happy to speak with business owners, even if they are not for
sale. If private equity is a growing presence in your
