Search Fund Jargon Translator

Clear, plain-English definitions of ETA and dealmaking terms, with practical notes and examples.

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Search Fund

An investment vehicle through which an entrepreneur (the 'searcher') raises a small amount of capital from investors to search for, acquire, and operate a privately held company.

Capital Call

The process by which a fund manager (like a search funder) requests committed capital from their investors to make an investment.

Self-Funded Search

A model of ETA where the searcher uses their own funds (or funds from a small, informal group) for the search phase and raises acquisition capital on a deal-by-deal basis.

Accelerator-Led Search

A hybrid ETA model where a searcher joins a formal program (an accelerator) that provides capital, mentorship, and resources for the search and acquisition process.
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