Invitation to Participate in academic research on Value Creation in Search Funds and Entrepreneurial Buyouts

July 13, 2025
by a searcher from Cranfield University - Cranfield School of Management in East Sussex, UK
Dear Searchfunder Community
I hope this message finds you well.
I am a doctoral research student with Cranfield University School of Management, currently conducting a research project examining value creation mechanisms within the context of search funds and entrepreneurial buyouts, from acquisition strategy to post-acquisition operations and eventual exit.
The objective is to better understand the drivers of value creation, and how these can vary across different contexts. Given your direct experience and insights in this unique investment model, your participation would be incredibly valuable.
Who can participate?
I am looking to speak with:
Current and former searchers
CEOs/operators of acquired businesses
Investors active in search funds / ETA
Advisors or intermediaries involved in search / ETA transactions
What is involved?
A short (30–45 minute) confidential interview via Teams/Zoom at a time convenient to you. All responses will be anonymised, and data will be treated with confidentiality, in accordance with Cranfield’s research ethics policy.
If you are open to participating or learning more, please feel free to reach out to me via searchfunder, message me via LinkedIn, or email me at redacted
Thank you in advance for considering this opportunity to contribute to a deeper understanding of value creation in the search fund ecosystem, an important and evolving area of entrepreneurial practice.
Warm regards