Search Types

Search Funds

Arden Clare invests in traditional search funds — backing MBA-trained entrepreneurs through the search phase and into acquisition, with capital and guidance at every stage.

Our Approach

Our Approach to Search Funds

Search Phase Investment

We provide search capital to cover living expenses, travel, and deal costs during the acquisition search. Our investment gives searchers the runway to find the right business — not just the first available one.

Investor Syndicate Access

Arden Clare brings a network of co-investors who understand the search fund model. We help searchers build a strong, aligned investor syndicate that adds value beyond capital.

Acquisition Diligence Support

Arden Clare has evaluated hundreds of lower middle-market businesses. Principal-led diligence means searchers work directly with an active operator — stress-testing assumptions, identifying risks, and validating the investment thesis firsthand.

100-Day Plan Development

Before close, we help searchers build a rigorous 100-day operating plan. From quick wins to long-term strategic priorities, we ensure the new CEO hits the ground running.

The search fund model produces some of the most disciplined, motivated CEOs in the lower middle market. We're proud to back them from day one.

What We Look For

Target Criteria

Revenue Range$3M – $20M
EBITDA$750K – $4M
Searcher BackgroundMBA or equivalent experience
Business TypeStable, recurring revenue preferred
IndustriesServices, Healthcare, Light Industrial
GeographyUnited States
Search CapitalProvided during search phase
Acquisition EquityLead or co-lead investor

Ready to explore a partnership with Arden Clare? We'd love to hear about your search.

Get in Touch