Knowledge Marketplace
My First Million

My First Million

The best business ideas come from noticing what's working and doing it better, faster, or for a different audience.

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Gather comprehensive intelligence on potential acquirers to position your company optimally

Startup founders preparing to sell their company

2-4 weeks before initial buyer meetings

What Success Looks Like

Having detailed insights into buyer priorities, pain points, decision makers, and internal dynamics before your first pitch meeting

Steps to Execute

1

Identify and contact executives from companies previously acquired by your target

2

Ask specific questions about deal process, timelines, and decision-making

3

Map internal stakeholders and identify the executive champion

4

Research current strategic priorities and stuck initiatives

5

Understand company culture and communication preferences

Checklist

List of 3-5 founders previously acquired by target company
Understanding of buyer's top 3 strategic priorities
Identification of executive champion and decision makers
Knowledge of stuck initiatives needing solutions
Insights into deal process and timeline expectations

Inputs Needed

  • List of target acquirer companies
  • Access to founder networks for introductions
  • Time for informal coffee meetings and calls

Outputs

  • Detailed buyer intelligence profiles
  • Customized positioning strategy for each buyer
  • Identified warm introduction paths

Example

“Before pitching to Microsoft, a startup founder contacts 3 founders of previously acquired companies, learns that the Azure team is struggling with a specific compliance initiative, and positions their security tech as the perfect solution.”