Our search focus

ETL Partners is a veteran-founded venture seeking to acquire and operate a single small business in the Mid-Atlantic or Southeast for the long term. Our search criteria include:

  • Approximately $3M-30M in annual revenue

  • Strong customer base

  • Owner seeking a sale or retirement

Why working with us is different

Selling your business is a personal decision. ETL Partners offers an alternative to private equity (PE) or strategic buyers by providing stable, hands-on ownership and a clear succession plan:

  • Owner-operator leadership

    Partner directly with Matt, who will step in as the new President/CEO and will provide dedicated hands-on management to ensure continuity and operational focus.

  • Legacy and culture preservation

    Protect existing employees, culture, and reputation through a smooth transition with ETL Partners — without absorbing them into a larger entity.

  • Long-term ownership

    Trust that ETL Partners is seeking to operate your business sustainably for the long term, not to produce short-term financial engineering or to flip your business for another sale.

  • Simple, flexible deal structure

    Align on straightforward, fair terms without unnecessary complexity. You may have the option to remain involved with the business post-sale, without pressure from aggressive earnouts or rigid structures.

What working with us could look like

ETL Partners will collaborate with small business owners for roughly three to six months from initial conversation to closing, depending on the business’ complexity and the owner’s timeline. The process is supported by experienced legal, financial, and diligence professionals:

  • Introduction and information sharing (2-8 weeks)

    We begin with confidential conversations to align on goals and values, followed by a review of the business’ operations and financials. This stage may include follow-up discussions and a site visit.

    If aligned, we outline preliminary terms in a Letter of Intent (LOI). We target closing in 75-90 days after we complete the LOI.

  • Due diligence and financing approval (8-16 weeks)

    We conduct a detailed review of the business, confirm key assumptions, and finalize transaction terms.

  • Final agreements and closing (2-4 weeks)

    We complete final legal documents, transfer funds, and transition ownership. Post-closing involvement by the seller is optional and defined by the purchase agreement.