Finding the Right Deal

Today was a good one. I learned about a strong, values-driven business from two retiring founders—and had a separate, energizing conversation with a broker about a company I’ve had my eye on for a while.

I’m not just sourcing deals. I’m building conviction.

This stage of the search is where the real work happens—not in the headline moments, but in the quiet, consistent ones: building trust, asking better questions, and learning how to say “no” with discipline.

The pipeline is active. I’m reviewing CIMs, meeting founders, and connecting with brokers every week. Some conversations are early. Others have turned into serious discussions. I’ve negotiated terms more than once. I’ve gotten close. And I’ve passed when it didn’t feel right.

That’s the hard part. But it’s also the most important part.

The businesses I’m seeing aren’t theoretical. They’re real companies—with customers, culture, and legacy. That’s not something I take lightly. I’m not just looking for a good business—I’m looking for the right one. One that fits the economics, the mission, and my ability to lead from day one.

Every pass sharpens the filter. Every conversation raises the bar. I’m not trying to win the volume game—I’m trying to win the fit game.

The goal isn’t to check boxes. It’s to find the business where the seller looks me in the eye and says, “You’re the one to carry this forward.” I’m getting closer to that every week.

Want to Connect?

If you know an owner thinking about succession—or a broker looking for the right buyer—I’d love to connect.

📧 Email: holdings@sidebright.com
📅 Schedule a call or coffee: zcal.me/1WCN1
🔗 Website: sidebright.com/holdings
💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ericpizzi
📞 Or just give me a call.

Related Resources

▶️ Watch: Building a Deal Pipeline – Stanford Search Fund Conference (2022)
🎙️ Listen: The Art of Saying No – Acquiring Minds with Nick Haschka
📄 Read: How Searchers Build a Deal Flow Engine – Searchfunder