Long-term mindset. Growth focused.
People first.
Our Differentiated Approach
At Pine Cove Capital (PCC), we know that you’ve poured blood, sweat, and tears into your company to make it what it is today. But there comes a time for every entrepreneur to transition to something new, whether it be a new venture, an adjusted role, or into retirement.
PCC is founded by entrepreneurs that have a vested interest in allowing owners to make that transition while still preserving the legacy of the company they’ve built. We partner with owners to understand their personal liquidity needs, craft a path forward that aligns with those requirements, and support the business as it enters its next chapter.
While other businesses may choose to sell to a competitor or private equity firm, PCC provides owners with a more flexible way to transition, and assurance that their company and employees will be treated with the respect they deserve.
Our Target Attributes
We partner with businesses that have a proven track record in market segments that we are excited about. The small business owners that we work with are an equally important part of our criteria and we strive to approach all our transactions with honesty, integrity, and trust.
- Acquisition price of $2 - 30 million
Financial Profile
- Recurring / repeating revenue
- Differentiated product or service offering
Business Profile
- Multiple, feasible growth opportunities
- Fragmented competitive base
- Stable, growing market
Industry Profile
- Motivated to sell full or majority stake
Owner Profile
- Committed to ensuring a smooth deal process
Why Choose Pine Cove
We looked at private equity’s approach and decided to do things differently. Our approach puts the small business owner’s priorities at the center of the process, focusing on a solution that balances transaction terms, legacy preservation, and their future involvement.
Who We Are
Values-based entrepreneurs seeking to preserve the seller's legacy and unlock potential
Private Equity
Large team of investors, consultants, and lawyers with burdensome investment & reporting processes
Focus
Hyper focused on seller’s business from day 1; seller’s employees integral to the strategy
Private Equity
Potentially hundreds of portfolio companies with limited operational involvement
Funding
Fully committed capital from a patient investor base; we are not a search fund
Private Equity
Similar level of committed capital with a far more complex investment and approval process
Deal Terms
Flexible terms tailored to seller needs, including their desired scope of involvement post sale
Private Equity
Expectation, or often, requirement to stay for multiple years with various financial contingencies
Time Horizon
Long-term orientation with the potential to operate in an evergreen structure
Private Equity
Predetermined exit date within 3-5 years of ownership
Value Creation
Prioritize value creation opportunities that maximize sustainable performance and longevity
Private Equity
Often prioritize ‘cost out’ programs including headcount reductions
Our Process
At Pine Cove Capital, we understand that each business owner has unique goals and requirements. Our deal process is customized to each seller’s needs, ensuring a seamless and successful transaction. In general, our processes share similar milestones:
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An opportunity to get to know each other, understand fit, and get to know each other's priorities.
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Non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) are signed and basic financial data is shared. We use what is provided and external data sets to better understand the industry and business. If both parties seem interested in proceeding, we will submit a non-binding Letter of Intent (LOI) with preliminary terms outlined.
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During a 90 day exclusivity period, Pine Cove will continue with detailed analysis of financial, operational, and legal aspects of the company, developing a clearer picture of fit and what the ownership transition would look like.
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Once all parties are aligned on transaction terms, a purchase agreement will be signed and Pine Cove capital will take over operations of the business. After closing, we will work with the seller to ensure a smooth transition and allow our team to get up to speed on the business.