Your Exit PathYourExitPathby Main Street Wealth

Buyer Types

Every kind of buyer wants a different deal.

Understanding which buyer type is right for your business is the difference between one lukewarm offer and a real process with multiple bidders.
$500K–$2M EBITDA

Self-funded searchers

Solo operators buying one business to own and run. Typically SBA-financed. Prefer recurring revenue and a General Manager in place.

When it fits

Right fit if: you want a hands-on operator who'll continue the business, and you're OK with SBA financing timelines.

$1M–$3M EBITDA

Search funds & ETA

Traditional and self-funded search programs backed by institutional investors. Structured process, professional diligence.

When it fits

Right fit if: your business has a defensible market position and clean financials.

$2M–$10M EBITDA

Independent sponsors & small PE

Non-traditional acquirers building portfolios. Bring capital from LPs or family offices deal-by-deal.

When it fits

Right fit if: you're at the lower end of the middle market and want a professional buyer.

Any size

Strategic acquirers

Operating companies rolling up their industry (HVAC, home services, healthcare) or entering an adjacent one. Often the highest multiples.

When it fits

Right fit if: you have industry-specific IP, brand equity, or a market position a strategic wants.

Get matched

We'll tell you which type is right.

Complete the assessment — we recommend the buyer category that best matches your business profile, and route you to the M&A path that gets you there.

Get my recommendation

Or just get notified

We'll email you when the buyer marketplace opens.

Sukhrobjon (Rob) Ismoilov, M&A Advisor

Schedule a consultation

Rob Ismoilov · M&A Advisor

Main Street Wealth M&A Advisors · 30 min · Free consultation

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