A data-driven service for founders seeking acquisition outcomes over dilution — based on our step-by-step 2025 Strategic M&A Playbook.
Why This Service
Most early-stage SaaS teams default to fundraising and miss strategic acquisitions that deliver faster, lower-risk outcomes. This engagement transforms the playbook into a real plan: quantify your value, target ideal acquirers, and run a proactive engagement process so you control timing and narrative.
Who It’s For
- Seed to early Series B SaaS companies with ~$1–10M ARR and a strong product moat.
- Founders weighing exit versus dilution who want leverage and optionality.
- Teams seeking a structured, research-backed route to strategic buyers.
Service Components & Deliverables
1) Acquisition Thesis Development
- Workshop defining 2–3 clear strategic value propositions (build-vs-buy logic, market access, competitive defense).
- Quant model: product replacement cost, CAC efficiency, integration lift.
- Ideal acquirer profile by size, geography, culture, and prior M&A pattern.
2) Acquirer Target Mapping & Research
- Curated list of 10–20 qualified acquirers — platform, horizontal, vertical, or PE roll-up plays.
- Per-acquirer briefs covering strategy fit, decision-makers, and valuation benchmarks.
- Signal tracking: product gaps, partnerships, funding rounds, leadership changes.
3) Engagement Strategy & Materials
- 6–12 month relationship plan — warm intros, thought-leadership, executive briefings, guided demos.
- Deal-grade assets: one-pager, demo video, integration thesis, KPI pack.
- Narrative priming: why now, integration roadmap, risk mitigation.
4) Deal Readiness & Execution Support
- Readiness sprints: data room, metrics hygiene, tech/security posture.
- Process guidance: intro → LOI → diligence → close (with negotiation guardrails).
- Founder coaching on breakpoints, walk-away conditions, and multi-path options.
Typical Engagement Model
- Phase 1 (4–6 weeks): Define thesis, valuation logic, and ideal acquirer profile.
- Phase 2 (8–12 weeks): Build target list, materials, and outreach plan.
- Phase 3 (6–12 months): Manage warm intros, narrative priming, and diligence prep.
Pricing based on ARR, complexity, and acquirer count. Fixed-fee + success-based options available.
Why Work With DevelopmentCorporate
- Data-driven: grounded in real M&A comps and integration outcomes.
- SaaS-native: combines operating metrics with acquirer logic.
- Partner mindset: we run the process while you keep building.
FAQs
Can we still raise another round?
Yes — this increases optionality. You can raise or sell; being ready improves leverage on both paths.
How many acquirers do you target?
Typically 10–20 highly aligned firms, refined as engagement signals emerge.
Do you support diligence and negotiation?
Yes — we prepare data rooms, coach founders, and guide LOI/definitive stages with counsel.
What if we decide not to sell?
You’ll still gain a stronger story, cleaner data, and live relationships with strategic partners.
Next Step
Let’s evaluate your acquisition readiness and identify a short-list of realistic acquirers. We’ll outline a 90-day activation plan in your first call.