Trusted M&A advisory & capital sourcing firm for middle-market business owners
Frequently Asked Questions
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About Waypoint Private Capital
- 01
Waypoint Private Capital is an investment banking firm that delivers top-tier M&A advisory and capital sourcing services, typically reserved for large companies, to middle-market clients. Our passion is to assist business owners and their privately held companies through the critical stages of their business lifecycle.
With over 420 years of combined M&A career experience, our team spans nine U.S. locations, including three physical offices. This diverse geographic presence enables us to be close to our clients, understanding their unique needs and local market conditions.
- 02
Waypoint Private Capital works with business owners who are looking to sell a business, buy a business, source capital for debt and equity financing. Generally, our sell-side clients are looking for a 100% buyout and exit, (as opposed to a minority investor, or recap and equity rollover). They have determined that selling to an outside buyer is the best option for meeting both their business and personal goals. The majority are willing to help transition the business to a new owner for up to a year or more. Waypoint Private Capital Clients
Our clients are privately held middle-market business owners and their management teams anywhere in the U.S with revenue of $10 million to $200 million+ and EBITDA of $2 million to $30 million. Their transaction size is between $3 million to $150 million.
The industries we serve include:
> Aerospace
> Automotive
> Business Services
> Chemical Processing
> Construction & Engineering
> Consumer Products & Services
> Distribution & Logistics
> Financial Services
> Food & Beverage
> Franchise Systems
> Healthcare
> Manufacturing & Industrials
> Retail
> Software & Technology
> Waste Management & Environmental
- 03
Waypoint Private Capital provides a range of financial advisory services to privately held, middle-market companies, entrepreneurs, and family-owned businesses.
We specialize in creating tailored solutions that drive value and support our clients' long-term growth objectives. With a focus on relationship-driven partnerships, we prioritize personalized attention in every client engagement and live by our core values:
Integrity We are a firm driven by doing what is right for all involved. It is the core of who we are.
Excellence
Everything we do must stand up to the test of excellence. It is the only way we know how to run our business, and we understand it is paramount to our success.
Communication
Our clients appreciate how well and how often we communicate. They know our process and have a clear understanding of the direction in which we are all headed.
Trust
Relationships are built on trust. We work every day to earn the trust of everyone we interact with.
- 04
Waypoint Private Capital stands out for its personalized approach to selling or buying businesses, capital sourcing, and business valuations. We prioritize building strong, long-term relationships with our clients, providing tailored solutions that meet their specific short-term and long-term needs and goals.
Our team of experienced professionals combines industry expertise with innovative strategies, offering a comprehensive range of services including mergers and acquisitions, capital advisory, strategic financial consulting, and comprehensive business valuations.
What sets us apart is our commitment to delivering exceptional results and exceeding client expectations, ensuring a seamless and successful experience.
- 05
Waypoint Private Capital is an ideal partner for businesses seeking expert guidance in mergers, acquisitions, and strategic growth. With a deep understanding of market dynamics and a robust network of industry connections, Waypoint offers tailored solutions that align with your company's unique goals. Our team of seasoned professionals brings a wealth of experience and a client-centric approach, ensuring that each transaction is executed with precision and the highest level of professionalism.
In addition to our expertise, Waypoint Private Capital is committed to maintaining transparency and fostering long-term relationships. We prioritize clear communication and collaboration, working closely with clients to navigate complex financial landscapes and make informed decisions. This dedication to client success has earned us a reputation for excellence and reliability in the private capital sector.
Furthermore, our comprehensive suite of services extends beyond traditional investment banking. We offer strategic advisory services, capital raising, and value enhancement strategies, all designed to support sustainable growth and maximize shareholder value. By choosing Waypoint, businesses gain a trusted advisor capable of delivering innovative solutions and driving exceptional outcomes.
- 06
Waypoint Private Capital is not a business broker. We're a M&A advisor and investment banker. Most business brokers run their firms on a real estate model (commission only), favoring quantity over quality. In other words, they take as many listings as they can and hope that a handful of deals close. Industry statistics show that only 11% to 22% of businesses listed with a business broker ever sell.
As M&A advisors, we take a different approach. We bring investment-banking level services to our M&A and capital sourcing transactions. We focus on a small number of deals, typically six to 10 transactions at any given time, allowing us the ability to give you and your business the time and attention you deserve. Due to our careful selection, preparation, and adherence to a proven process, our close rate is consistently over 80%.
And, if we think now is not the best time for you to sell, buy, or finance your business, we will tell you. We'll never use high pressure sales tactics of any kind.
If you have M&A or capital sourcing questions or are interested in exploring your options to sell or buy, schedule a no obligation consultation.
Selling a Business
Frequently Asked Questions
- 01
It typically takes six to twelve months from the time you sign with us to the day of closing. We tell clients to mentally prepare for the selling process to take about a year, although our deals often close within six months.
- 02
We determine the value of your business through a comprehensive analysis that includes several key factors. This process involves examining your company's financial performance, market position, growth potential, and industry trends. We also consider the quality of your management team, customer base, and operational efficiency. By combining these elements with our industry expertise and market comparables, we can provide an accurate and fair valuation that reflects your business's true worth.
- 03
This is a great question, and one you need to get answered before you decide whether or not to sell your business. We offer complimentary business valuations. Please see our Business Valuation page for more on this important topic.
- 04
This is one of the things we will discuss with you after completing our valuation process. Most buyers fall into three general categories: entrepreneurial operators, financial buyers like private equity firms, and strategic buyers. We caution business owners to keep an open mind when it comes to buyers. Your “ideal buyer” may be someone you’ve never thought of. We work hard to attract several types of buyers for your business so that you can find the best fit for you and your business.
- 05
Most sellers list this as one of their top concerns, and we understand why. Rest assured that there is no right answer to this question, as it varies from owner to owner. We’ve met business owners who wait until the deal is done to tell employees, while others hold a meeting early in the process. There is no right answer, but we would be happy to talk to you further about your company culture and the benefits and risks of telling employees early or late in the sale process.
- 06
If you think you’d like to sell your business, it’s best to start planning at least two to three years in advance. We recommend that you get a business valuation immediately to see where your business is today. That way we can work together to come up with a game plan to enhance the value of your business and make it more marketable prior to beginning the sale process.
The reality is that both you and your business must be ready for the selling process. We will give you our honest opinion about your situation, and work with you to identify a reasonable timeline for the sale of your business. Learn more about our Business Valuation here.
- 07
We have proprietary databases of both financial and strategic buyers and will do the hard work of building industry buyer lists as needed on a deal-by-deal basis.
- 08
Our marketing materials are second to none. The two primary marketing documents that we create are the Executive Summary (a one-page blinded profile of the business) and the Confidential Information Presentation (CIP). The CIP is an extensive deck that tells the story of your business and the opportunity associated with an acquisition. It contains enough information for a buyer to decide whether to move forward and make an offer to buy your business. We send the CIP to potential buyers who have signed a Nondisclosure Agreement.
Again, the quality of our marketing attracts exceptional buyers. We’ve had many buyers say that out of the hundreds of CIP's they see in a year, ours make them stop and want to learn more about a client’s business.
- 09
Yes, hiring an M&A advisor is beneficial, especially for business owners who are going through the M&A process. M&A advisors can provide valuable market insight, help in valuing the business, identify potential buyers, prepare marketing materials, negotiate terms, and guide you through the complex legal and financial aspects of a deal.
- 10
The buyer's due diligence will typically cover financial, legal, operational, and strategic aspects of your business. This can include a thorough review of financial statements, contracts, employee information, compliance with laws and regulations, the competitive landscape, and the overall market environment. The goal is for the buyer to verify the information presented and understand any risks involved.
- 11
Ensuring a smooth transition post-sale involves:
Clearly define the terms of the transition, including any roles you or key staff members will play in the business going forward.
Communicating effectively with employees, customers, and suppliers about the change in ownership.
Assisting the new owners with understanding the business operations, culture, and strategic goals.
Being available to answer questions and provide guidance during the agreed-upon transition period.
Buying a Business
Frequently Asked Questions
- 01
An ideal target is one that aligns with your strategic goals, has a sustainable competitive advantage, and offers potential for synergies and growth.
- 02
We adhere to strict confidentiality agreements and protocols throughout the process to protect all parties involved.
- 03
While timelines can vary, most acquisitions take between six months to one year from initial contact to deal closure, depending on the complexity of the deal.
Debt Raise FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
- 01
Debt financing involves obtaining funds that must be repaid over time with interest. It can be used for various purposes including business expansion, refinancing existing debts, or other operational needs. This type of financing is typically secured by some form of collateral and requires periodic interest payments.
- 02
We help businesses secure debt financing by evaluating financial needs, structuring loans, and negotiating with lenders. Our services include identifying the most suitable types of debt instruments, whether it's a term loan, revolving credit, or mezzanine financing, tailored to support your growth objectives.
- 03
We work with a variety of debt instruments including senior debt, subordinated debt, mezzanine financing, and asset-based loans. Depending on your business needs and financial health, we tailor our approach to find the most advantageous financing solution.
- 04
Sourcing debt typically involves different financial assessments, such as creditworthiness and cash flow analysis, unlike equity which often focuses on growth potential and business valuation. Debt might require collateral and involve repayment obligations, whereas equity does not require repayment but may entail giving up a portion of business control.
- 05
The duration can vary based on the complexity of the deal and the type of debt being sourced. Generally, it takes anywhere from three to six months. Our team works diligently to streamline the process, ensuring timely access to funds while maintaining thorough due diligence.
- 06
You will need to provide detailed financial records, cash flow projections, business plans, and information about existing debts. For certain types of loans, details about collateral (such as property, inventory, or receivables) that will secure the loan may also be required.
- 07
Yes, we specialize in refinancing that can improve your debt structure, reduce interest costs, or alter maturity terms. Refinancing may involve consolidating multiple loans into one, obtaining lower interest rates, or renegotiating loan terms to align with your current financial strategy.
- 08
Common challenges include meeting lender requirements for creditworthiness, providing adequate collateral, and negotiating favorable terms. Market conditions may also impact interest rates and loan availability. Our expertise lies in navigating these challenges to secure the best possible financing options for our clients.
- 09
We leverage our extensive network of lenders and our deep understanding of market conditions to negotiate the best terms for our clients. Our comprehensive analysis of your financial situation allows us to position your request attractively to lenders.
- 10
Schedule a no obligation consultation with one of our co-founders. We will discuss your financing needs, evaluate your financial health, and explain how we can facilitate the sourcing of appropriate debt financing for your situation.
Equity Raise FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
- 01
Later stage equity financing involves raising capital for companies that are past the initial growth phases and require funding to expand further, make significant acquisitions, or restructure existing ownership. This type of financing supports companies with established revenues and business models looking to scale or transition strategically.
- 02
Our equity raise process starts with a comprehensive understanding of your business objectives and financial situation. We then identify potential equity investors from our network who align with your company’s stage and sector. This is followed by the preparation of detailed marketing materials, conducting negotiations, and finally facilitating the investment transaction. Review the entire equity raise process:
- 03
We work with a wide range of equity investors, including private equity funds, family offices, and strategic corporate investors, all of whom specialize in later-stage investments. Our strong relationships ensure we match you with the most suitable investors for your specific needs.
- 04
The amount of equity to raise is determined based on your company's current valuation, growth projections, and the capital required for achieving strategic goals. Our team conducts a thorough financial analysis to recommend an optimal funding amount that balances dilution and capital needs.
- 05
Yes, structuring the deal is a key part of our services. We assist in defining the terms of the equity investment, including valuation, ownership percentages, voting rights, and exit strategies. Our goal is to structure a deal that supports both growth and the long-term interests of existing owners and new investors.
- 06
Initially, you will need to provide detailed financial statements, business plans, growth projections, and information on your management team. A clear outline of your future business strategies and funding use is also crucial to attract the right investors.
- 07
The timeline can vary significantly depending on the complexity of your business and the amount of capital being raised. Typically, it ranges from three months to a year. We strive to expedite the process while ensuring thorough due diligence is maintained.
- 08
Challenges may include valuation disagreements, lengthy due diligence processes, and negotiating favorable terms. Our expertise lies in navigating these challenges effectively to minimize disruptions and secure equity under favorable terms.
- 09
We conduct a detailed assessment of potential investors’ interests, investment history, and industry focus to ensure alignment with your company’s vision and needs. Our proactive approach involves engaging with investors who not only provide capital but also add strategic value.
- 10
To begin, contact us to schedule a no obligation consultation. During this meeting, we will discuss your financial goals, understand your business model, and outline how we can assist in sourcing the necessary equity to fuel your next phase of growth.
- 01
It typically takes six to twelve months from the time you sign with us to the day of closing. We tell clients to mentally prepare for the selling process to take about a year, although our deals often close within six months.
- 02
We determine the value of your business through a comprehensive analysis that includes several key factors. This process involves examining your company's financial performance, market position, growth potential, and industry trends. We also consider the quality of your management team, customer base, and operational efficiency. By combining these elements with our industry expertise and market comparables, we can provide an accurate and fair valuation that reflects your business's true worth.
- 03
This is a great question, and one you need to get answered before you decide whether or not to sell your business. We offer complimentary business valuations. Please see our Business Valuation page for more on this important topic.
- 04
This is one of the things we will discuss with you after completing our valuation process. Most buyers fall into three general categories: entrepreneurial operators, financial buyers like private equity firms, and strategic buyers. We caution business owners to keep an open mind when it comes to buyers. Your “ideal buyer” may be someone you’ve never thought of. We work hard to attract several types of buyers for your business so that you can find the best fit for you and your business.
- 05
Most sellers list this as one of their top concerns, and we understand why. Rest assured that there is no right answer to this question, as it varies from owner to owner. We’ve met business owners who wait until the deal is done to tell employees, while others hold a meeting early in the process. There is no right answer, but we would be happy to talk to you further about your company culture and the benefits and risks of telling employees early or late in the sale process.
- 06
If you think you’d like to sell your business, it’s best to start planning at least two to three years in advance. We recommend that you get a business valuation immediately to see where your business is today. That way we can work together to come up with a game plan to enhance the value of your business and make it more marketable prior to beginning the sale process.
The reality is that both you and your business must be ready for the selling process. We will give you our honest opinion about your situation, and work with you to identify a reasonable timeline for the sale of your business. Learn more about our Business Valuation here.
- 07
We have proprietary databases of both financial and strategic buyers and will do the hard work of building industry buyer lists as needed on a deal-by-deal basis.
- 08
Our marketing materials are second to none. The two primary marketing documents that we create are the Executive Summary (a one-page blinded profile of the business) and the Confidential Information Presentation (CIP). The CIP is an extensive deck that tells the story of your business and the opportunity associated with an acquisition. It contains enough information for a buyer to decide whether to move forward and make an offer to buy your business. We send the CIP to potential buyers who have signed a Nondisclosure Agreement.
Again, the quality of our marketing attracts exceptional buyers. We’ve had many buyers say that out of the hundreds of CIP's they see in a year, ours make them stop and want to learn more about a client’s business.
- 09
Yes, hiring an M&A advisor is beneficial, especially for business owners who are going through the M&A process. M&A advisors can provide valuable market insight, help in valuing the business, identify potential buyers, prepare marketing materials, negotiate terms, and guide you through the complex legal and financial aspects of a deal.
- 10
The buyer's due diligence will typically cover financial, legal, operational, and strategic aspects of your business. This can include a thorough review of financial statements, contracts, employee information, compliance with laws and regulations, the competitive landscape, and the overall market environment. The goal is for the buyer to verify the information presented and understand any risks involved.
- 11
Ensuring a smooth transition post-sale involves:
Clearly define the terms of the transition, including any roles you or key staff members will play in the business going forward.
Communicating effectively with employees, customers, and suppliers about the change in ownership.
Assisting the new owners with understanding the business operations, culture, and strategic goals.
Being available to answer questions and provide guidance during the agreed-upon transition period.
