Events
Ask Anything: searching for the right business
February 10, 2026 | 6:15 PM AEDT
Join us at this virtual event for current and prospective searchers navigating the deal sourcing process. Jake Nicholson, Managing Director of SMEVentures, will answer your questions about defining investment criteria, generating proprietary deal flow, and identifying the right business to acquire.
Ask Anything: raising acquisition capital
March 26, 2026 | 12:15 AEDT
Join us at this virtual event for searchers looking to understand the mechanics of funding a deal. Jake Nicholson, Managing Director of SMEVentures, will answer your questions about the complexities of raising capital to close an acquisition, including debt structuring and equity gaps.
EtA Forum Queenstown 2026
March 26, 2026 | Queenstown, New Zealand
The highest concentration of ANZ-based capital and debt providers who understand both the search model and the nuances of local deal structures.
Ask Anything: pursuing search fund vs startup
April 9, 2026 | 5:15 PM AEST
Join us at this virtual event for entrepreneurs weighing the choice between "buying vs. building." Jake Nicholson, Managing Director of SMEVentures, will answer your questions about the risk profiles, financial outcomes, and day-to-day realities of running a search fund compared to launching a traditional startup.
4th Private Markets Summit
May 14, 2026 | Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park
A generalist event, but worth your attention. Family offices and allocators here are exploring the lower middle market. A good room to build relationships and exchange perspectives across the capital spectrum.
IESE Search Fund & Entrepreneurial Acquisitions Bootcamp
June 15–18, 2026 | IESE Barcelona South Campus, Spain
Four days to pressure-test conviction. Before committing capital and career, this bootcamp moves past theory into the lived reality of the search. A useful filter for everyone involved.
Booth-Kellogg Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition Conference
November 2026 (Dates TBA) | Chicago, IL
Post-acquisition focus.
Strong programming on the first 100 days: sales team transitions, cash management, operational handover. Practical content for those already through the deal.
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Let’s talk.
If you are a high-caliber operator looking to acquire and operate a business in Australia, you may be a good fit for our team, and we would love to begin a conversation with you.
hello@smeventures.com
+61 (0)280 114 183