For Investors - Investment Identified

Search Fund

What is a Search Fund?

A Search Fund is an investment model where Guild identifies, acquires, and operates a private business. Investors provide the funding and fully own the acquired business. Guild’s consultants handle the daily operations to grow the business and create lasting value.

 

Are You a Business Owner Who Has No Successor?

Let Guild help your business build its legacy through proven growth strategies, expert management, and partnership-driven success.

How Does Guild's Search Fund Model Work?

Step 1: Finding the Right Business

Guild identifies promising small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) ready for growth. We thoroughly evaluate each opportunity, perform detailed due diligence, and recommend the best businesses for private investors to acquire.

Step 2: Investor Ownership and Funding

Private investors directly purchase and fully own the chosen SME. Unlike traditional investment funds, investors maintain 100% ownership from day one, with Guild providing expertise and management support, not direct capital.

Step 3: Guild Takes Charge of Operations

Guild appoints a highly qualified interim CEO or management team, typically from our extensive network of experienced MBA professionals. These specialists manage the SME’s daily operations, implement strategic initiatives, and drive growth.

Step 4: Performance-Based Management

We align our success closely with investors through:

  • Monthly Management Fees: Regular payments for ongoing strategic oversight.
  • Executive Placement Fees: Separate fees for providing hands-on CEO or senior management roles.
  • Performance Bonuses: Additional rewards tied to achieving clearly defined business goals and milestones.
  • Equity Ownership: Over time, Guild earns a stake in the business based on achieving performance targets, further aligning our interests with long-term success.

Step 5: Preserving and Enhancing Your Legacy

Guild offers a uniquely flexible approach. Unlike traditional private equity, we are committed to preserving the core legacy and values of the business. Investors and business owners have the freedom to continue operations indefinitely, safeguarding their legacy, or strategically transition at a suitable time—be it through succession planning, partial exits, or complete transitions—always prioritising the long-term health and legacy of the business.

Why This Matters

  • Guild's Search Fund model uniquely combines MBA qualified professionals, investor resources, and professional management expertise. It offers investors and SMEs the best of both worlds—clear alignment of interests, professional management, reduced operational risks, and significant potential financial returns.