Operator Program
Search Fund Accelerator
Backs individual operators (searchers) who raise capital, find a business to acquire, and run it as CEO.
Overview
The search fund model — also called Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) — involves an individual (the "searcher") raising capital to fund a search for a business to acquire and lead as CEO. Search Fund Accelerators provide capital, coaching, networks, and operational support to help searchers find, acquire, and successfully operate a business. This is one of the most direct paths to becoming a CEO with investor backing.
The Model
Two-stage process: (1) the searcher raises a small amount of capital to fund 12–24 months of searching for the right acquisition target; (2) once a business is identified, the same investors back the acquisition. The searcher then leads the business as CEO full-time, earning equity through a graduated vesting schedule tied to performance.
The Role
What They Look For
- Self-directed leaders with strong analytical and interpersonal skills
- Individuals committed to a full-time, multi-year operating role
- Operators with experience in finance, operations, or general management
- Candidates with a clear thesis for the type of business they want to acquire
- People motivated by ownership and long-term value creation
Who It's For
- Aspiring CEOs who want to lead a business from acquisition through growth
- MBA graduates or operators looking to enter the ETA path
- Leaders who want full operating control with investor support behind them
- Individuals comfortable with a multi-year search and hold horizon
What to Consider
- The search phase may take 12–24 months with no guarantee of a completed acquisition
- You are the operator — this requires full-time commitment and resilience
- Success depends heavily on the individual's ability to find and run the right business
- Investors hold preferred returns on acquisition capital before operator equity vests
- Total timeline from search through exit can span 8–12 years
Interested in Learning More?
Visit the organization's website directly to learn about current opportunities, requirements, and how to get in touch with their team.
Educational listing. About Franchising does not endorse, recommend, or verify the claims of any program or organization listed on this site. This information is provided for educational purposes only. Research each opportunity independently and speak directly with program participants before making any commitments.