Most business owners and investors understand the value of growth through acquisition. The real challenge isn’t the idea itself, it’s execution. Finding the right company, getting a conversation started, and closing a deal that creates lasting value takes more than a good strategy on paper. It takes focus, preparation, and consistent follow-through.
At Hybrid Capital, the Buy-Side process helps clients identify, engage, and acquire companies that fit their objectives before they hit the open market. Rather than chasing public listings or depending on brokers, the firm builds proprietary deal flow through research, direct outreach, and long-standing industry relationships.
Phase I – Criteria and Research (4–6 Weeks)
The acquisition process begins with defining clear criteria. The team works with management and investment partners to establish what an ideal target looks like, examining service mix, customer concentration, intellectual property, leadership, geographic reach, financial profile, and integration potential.
Using proprietary databases and internal networks, they develop an Acquisition Thesis and build a Target List of 75 to 200 companies—many private and not actively for sale, providing early engagement advantage.
Phase II – Contact, Qualification, and Negotiation (12–14 Weeks)
Outreach begins with thoughtful, confidential introductions positioning the acquirer as credible and strategic. As discussions develop, key information on financials, operations, and ownership goals emerges. Typically 10 to 20 percent advance to meaningful engagement, including management meetings and preliminary negotiations. The team then structures terms, coordinates follow-up, and negotiates Letters of Intent.
Phase III – Due Diligence and Closing (7–9 Weeks)
After LOI signing, the process moves into diligence and closing. The team manages communication between parties, coordinates advisors, and ensures the process stays on track while preparing for post-closing integration planning.