Selecting the right capital partner is critical for independent sponsors. Unfortunately, we often hear horror stories from independent sponsors about capital partners that re-trade deals, back out at the last minute or become less than ideal partners after a transaction closes.
We often find our clients asking us: Which capital sources make the best partners for independent sponsors? What should independent sponsors look for in a capital partner? What type of funding source would be the best fit for me and my deals?
Here are 3 traits shared by great independent sponsor funding sources:
1. They Offer Fair Independent Sponsor Economics
The proposed independent sponsor economics (transaction fee / promote, carried interest or ownership / ongoing management fee) are designed to reward the sponsor for the value delivered and to incentivize them to grow the business being acquired. If you bring a proprietary deal, at an attractive valuation, with a solid management team and growth plan to the table, you should be rewarded with superior fundless sponsor economics. Why is anything less than that reasonable or acceptable? Be careful not to fall into the trap of accepting below market economics if you can avoid it. Many of the long-time and well-known independent sponsor capital providers often take advantage of their independent sponsor counterparts, particularly new sponsors or ones that aren’t running a tight capital raising process. 2. They Embrace the Independent Sponsor Model
The ideal independent sponsor funding source embraces the independent sponsor model because they want to, not because they have to.
Let’s face it, not every SBIC, family office or private equity fund really wants to invest with independent sponsors, but as the independent sponsor market has grown, it has become harder for private equity firms to ignore as a viable source of deal flow.
You need to ask the right questions – how many independent sponsor deals have they done? What economics have they provided sponsors in the past? What are their criteria for independent sponsor deals? How do they see your role after the transaction closes? Based on their responses, you can decide if they really want to work with you…
3. They Provide More than Just Debt or Equity Capital
A great funding partner brings more to the table than the capital to close your deal.
The best funding sources are strategic – they will enable growth by funding add-on acquisitions; they have helpful industry connections; they have insight on best practices to grow a business. As an investment bank focused exclusively on raising debt and equity capital for independent sponsors, we’ve spent years building relationships with capital providers and know which funding sources will be the most complementary for different types of deals and sponsors. Fit matters in a partnership, especially as an independent sponsor.
To discuss an opportunity or learn more about how Access Capital Partners helps independent sponsors, please contact Greg Tobben or visit Access Capital Partners.
About Access Capital Partners
Access Capital Partners is a middle market investment bank focused exclusively on raising debt and equity capital for independent sponsors, executives and family offices.
Assisting with both new acquisitions, as well as recapitalizations, ACP has become a trusted partner in the independent sponsor community.
Save Time. Get Better Economics. Find the Right Capital Partner.
Access Capital Partners 7733 Forsyth Blvd. | Suite 1151 | St. Louis, MO 63105 info@accesscappartners.com | Tel: 314.783.9550 accesscappartners.com