The New Acquisition Playbook: How to Use M&A as a Growth Lever 

Acquisitions are no longer reserved for large corporations. Search funds, founder-led rollups, private-equity-backed platforms, and disciplined operators are increasingly using M&A to buy capability, customers, or market position rather than build it organically — sometimes acquiring companies larger than themselves. Knowing when and how to transact takes financial discipline, a clear read on what buyers reward, and the operational readiness to integrate.  

Session Focus: 

• The buy-vs-build calculus: when search funds, PE platforms, and disciplined operators reach for M&A instead of building  
• What separates acquirers who create value from ones who overpay or botch integration  
• Building deal-readiness before you're ever at the table  
• Sourcing, financing, structuring, and integrating your next acquisition — including a target larger than your own company