There is a unique opportunity that currently exists for both the Millennial and Baby Boomer generations. Baby Boomers represent a "silver tsunami" of over 2 million small business owners* due to retire and transition ownership over the coming years. These businesses reportedly employ over 20 million Americans and represent close to $5 billion in annual sales*. The team at KeelBoat Capital is determined to extend the legacy of one or more of these businesses. I am seeking to acquire, operate, and grow these proven, privately-owned, U.S.-based businesses. If you are a business owner looking to transition your business to an owner/operator who will respect and extend your legacy, please contact me using the button below.
*Statistics from this Washington Post article, published May 2017
Our philosophy
Enabling business owners to take the next step
I am searching for a strong, proven, American business to acquire and operate. As a business owner, you have spent years building your company's value, culture, and operations. My goal is to help you monetize the value of your business while extending its legacy and impact on the community. If you are interested in learning more about our process, please download the "one-pager" or contact me using the buttons below.
KeelBoat Capital's was founded to identify, acquire, and operate a proven and successful U.S.-based lower middle market business. I intend to acquire and hold the business while growing top-line revenue and introducing modern management techniques. I am not a private equity group looking to potentially break apart a business, nor am I a business broker looking to "take a piece" of a successful transaction. I am looking to preserve the current business owner's legacy and respect the importance of the current culture and employees and business's success. If you have any questions about the process or would like to speak with me more about acquiring your business, please use the button below to contact us.
Our objective
Investment criteria
I am searching for U.S.-based businesses that possess a unique combination of intangible professional values and tangible business and performance characteristics. When thinking of the intangibles, I am seeking businesses that have held themselves to a high moral and professional standard. This means demonstrating a continued focus on employee welfare, regulatory compliance, and maintaining long-term customer relationships. I have outlined the basic tangible characteristics below, but include more detail in our "one-pager". Please click the button below to download.
Growth
Historical growth of both company and industry of operation, with emphasis on sustained growth
Profitability
3+ years of profitability, with annual cash flow
between $1.5 million
and $5.0 million
Consistency
Diverse set of B2B customers with high % of contractually recurring revenue
Stability
Non-cyclical and non-commodity driven
industry with limited
threat of tech disruption
Our team
KeelBoat Capital is supported by a diverse set of current and former operators, seasoned investors, and representatives of various other professions. As an operator, I recognize the value of striking a balance between confidence and humility and welcome any and all learning opportunities. I am always seeking strong contributors to help source and analyze opportunities. If you are interested in learning more please contact me.
Meet the team
Founder & Managing Partner
Andrew Ellerhorst
Prior to starting KeelBoat Capital, Andrew worked for more than 7 years at GE. He held several roles across multiple functions (Finance and Product Management), helping to deliver results in highly competitive markets. Andrew holds a BS in Finance from Boston College and an MBA from Carnegie Mellon University. Andrew and his wife Danielle recently welcomed their first child, Natalie.