"I don't have an MBA" Search Fund

searcher profile

August 19, 2019

by a searcher in Portland, OR, USA

Hi Searchfunder Community, As the title suggests, I don't have an MBA. I had considered using my GI Bill for a FT MBA program but felt it wasn't the right fit. After exploring buying my own business, I discovered search funds. Are there any other searchfunder members that don't have an MBA? I'd love to hear more about their experiences.


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commentor profile
Reply by a searcher
from Babson College in Arlington, VA, USA
Welcome to the SF community. As someone with an MBA, I can tell you that having an MBA is NOT a prerequisite for acquiring a business. I know plenty of people who do not have MBAs and have succeeded in this space. It happens every day across the world, and I'm certain many of these entrepreneurs aren't even aware of the term "Search Fund." Whether or not you believe an MBA will help you achieve your goals is a personal decision. However, if you are dead set on buying a company, I would just go ahead and pursue that goal 110%. All of the information you need to get started is available for free online, and with the SBA 7a loan program you may not even need to raise any outside equity. If you haven't already, check out the book "Buy Then Build," which I believe explains the EtA process very clearly.
commentor profile
Reply by a searcher
from University of Pennsylvania in Indianapolis, IN, USA
An MBA is not a required credential for, well, anything like a JD or MD. While it is a great education and I have one (and working towards a doctorate because I enjoy learning), it is not necessary to be successful in a search or to find any number of financing sources that would be happy to back an operator with deep knowledge of their industry.

Get the degree because you enjoy learning and want the knowledge or because it will help fill a knowledge gap. Good luck in your search!
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