Investment Criteria

What we look for.

We are selective by design. We pursue a small number of acquisitions each year and focus our attention on businesses where we can be genuinely useful partners — not passive capital providers.

The Right Business

We acquire established, profitable businesses in industries we understand. We are not turnaround investors. We look for companies that are already well-run, with loyal customers, capable employees, and a track record of consistent performance. Our role is to provide continuity, capital, and strategic support — not to fix what is broken.

Deal Parameters

Revenue$1M+Annual recurring or project-based
EBITDA$300K+Consistent margins preferred
Business Age5+ YearsEstablished operating history
Transaction TypeControl AcquisitionsWe acquire controlling interest
GeographyUnited StatesAll regions considered
Hold PeriodLong-TermNo forced exit timeline

Focus Areas

Areas of Interest

We focus on businesses where our experience, operating approach, and long-term perspective can add value. Our interests include, but are not limited to, the following areas:

Software Businesses

Vertical SaaS, niche B2B software, and workflow tools with recurring revenue and defensible customer bases.

Accounting, Bookkeeping & Financial Services

CPA firms, bookkeeping practices, and financial advisory businesses with stable client relationships.

Technical B2B Services

Essential business services requiring specialized technical knowledge, certification, inspection, testing, or regulatory compliance. We favor businesses with recurring or repeat revenue, durable customer relationships, and demand driven by safety, regulation, maintenance, or ongoing operational requirements.

Insurance Services

Independent agencies, MGAs, and specialty insurance businesses with durable books of business.

Ideal Characteristics

What Makes a Great Partner

01

A business worth preserving

We look for businesses with a clear identity, loyal customers, and an owner who cares about legacy.

02

Consistent revenue and profitability

We prefer businesses with multiple years of stable or growing revenue and healthy margins.

03

A loyal customer base with strong retention

Recurring relationships and high retention are strong signals of a durable business.

04

A capable team and transferable operations

We value experienced employees, documented processes, and businesses that can transition successfully beyond the current owner.

05

A clear reason to sell

Retirement, succession planning, or a desire to transition to a long-term owner—we understand that every seller's circumstances are different.

06

Durable, essential demand

We favor products and services customers need consistently, supported by recurring requirements, specialized expertise, or long-standing business relationships.

How We Work

Our Acquisition Process

01

Confidential Inquiry

Reach out directly — no broker required. We respond personally to every inquiry.

02

Introductory Call

A confidential, no-pressure conversation to understand your business, your goals, and whether there may be a mutual fit.

03

Letter of Intent

If there is mutual alignment, we present a clear letter of intent outlining the proposed terms and path to closing.

04

Due Diligence

We conduct thorough, respectful due diligence while communicating clearly throughout the process.

05

Close

We complete the transaction on agreed terms and begin the work of long-term ownership and stewardship.

Think your business might be a fit?

We welcome direct inquiries from business owners. No intermediary required — just a confidential conversation.

Canfield Thomas LLC

Acquiring and building enduring businesses for the long term.

© 2026 Canfield Thomas LLC. All rights reserved.

Private Investment Firm