Closing deals as an unfunded sponsor

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by a searcher from Murdoch University
in Chicago, IL, USA

4yrs ago

Closing deals as an unfunded sponsor

I am interested to learn peoples experiences in working with family offices and PE firms in order to close deals as an independent sponsor (unfunded).

I understand that there are offices which provide both equity and senior debt to independent sponsors and in return, the sponsor receives a closing fee and ongoing management fees.

I have heard stories where Independent Sponsors have multiple LOIs signed but could not close any of the transactions due to the appetite, or lack there of, from the various offices.

How hard is it to get these deals done? What have peoples experiences been?

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reply by a searcher 4yrs ago
from Brigham Young University in Salt Lake City, UT, USA

I know it's done but I find doing the proper due diligence on a deal while simultaneously raising funds is incredibly difficult. I see these fall apart more than get done.

reply by a searcher 4yrs ago
from University of Pennsylvania in Indianapolis, IN, USA

If possible, it's helpful to cultivate a strong relationship with the potential sponsor(s) prior to finding the opportunities and take the time to really learn what they like rather than casting a wide net and signing LOIs that may not be of interest.You have to be very careful to take care with your own reputation as an acquirer otherwise word will get out that you/your company cannot close deals and that could box you out of opportunities in the future.