Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition Conference

The Rice 2024 ETA Conference is SOLD OUT. If we missed you, please stay in touch for the 2025 Conference. Contact: pepe.moreiras@rice.edu

From Vision to Ownership: The Acquisition Blueprint 

The Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition Conference is an annual event organized by students at the Jones Graduate School of Business. It serves as a premier platform for Rice Business alumni, MBA students, searchers, small business CEOs and investors to connect, network and share valuable insights on search funds and entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA). Our lineup of seasoned entrepreneurs will take the stage to share their game-changing experiences, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the world of search funds. 

Panels and Breakout Sessions

The conference is structured around thought-provoking panels and breakout sessions that cover the four major phases of a search fund.

• The Raise: Focuses on the initial fundraising phase, discussing strategies for securing capital and attracting investors.
• The Search: Explores the search process, highlighting effective techniques for identifying and evaluating potential acquisition targets.
• The Acquisition: Covers the acquisition phase, including negotiations, due diligence, and closing deals.
• The Growth: Delivers insights into managing and growing the acquired business post-acquisition.

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Workshops

You'll learn how to finance your search for the perfect business opportunity and discover the tried-and-true tactics that can elevate your business management skills to new heights. We’re all about turning knowledge into action. With our hands-on "Financing the Acquisition" workshop,  you'll get a robust toolkit to help you apply what you've learned. 

Networking Opportunities

The conference offers several valuable networking opportunities designed to foster connections and meaningful conversations among attendees. The networking lunch provides a relaxed environment for participants to mingle, share experiences, and build connections. During breaktime, facilitated coffee chats are held to encourage in-depth discussions and relationship-building among prospective searchers and industry professionals. Additionally, an exclusive networking mixer, hosted the day prior to the conference, invites sponsors, panelists, and esteemed guests to engage in extended, in-depth conversations, setting the stage for a collaborative and insightful event.