Fundamentals of ETA

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March 25, 2026

by an member from Mountain View College in Dallas, TX, USA

I’ve recently started learning more about entrepreneurship through acquisition and am trying to build a solid foundation before going deeper into deal sourcing. I’m currently working full-time while studying Business Administration, and I’ve started looking into basic deal metrics (SDE, EBITDA, DSCR, etc.), but I want to make sure I’m learning this the right way. For those who have been through this process: What resources (courses, books, or tools) helped you actually understand how to evaluate a deal? Are there any frameworks you recommend for breaking down small business acquisitions early on? What’s something you wish you understood sooner when learning the numbers? Appreciate any direction—trying to be intentional about building real understanding early.
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commentor profile
Reply by a lender
from California State University, Sacramento in Seattle, WA, USA
Weekly Power Hour on all things SBA if you’re a self funded searcher. Hosted by me each WEDS! Tactical information on how the financing works and what makes for a financialable deal. Email me for links to register. redacted
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Reply by a searcher
from University of Virginia in New York, NY, USA
Here are the 5 resources that helped me: - ETA IQ: https://etaiq.com/ - HBR Guide: www.store.hbr.org/product/hbr-guide-to-buying-a-small-business/10090 - Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/smallbusiness/ - Sam Rosati over at SMB Bootcamp hosts some helpful webinars (sorry, can't find the link) - Acquiring Minds podcast: https://acquiringminds.co/
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