Welcome to Cicada Fund
I am committed to buying and operating a profitable business. My focus is on a privately held, family or founder-owned business. With over 30 years of experience in the technology sector, I bring a wealth of knowledge and a strong commitment to scaling the company I acquire while honoring the seller's legacy.
I aim to acquire a single exceptional business and serve as CEO. Unlike traditional private equity firms or serial business buyers, I will commit 100% of my time and effort to operating and growing one great company. I plan to scale your business and make it an industry leader, creating lasting value for all stakeholders.
A handful of individual investors support Cicada Fund. We are focused on building long-term value without the timeline pressure of a private equity fund. We can execute a transaction quickly with the right company.
High-quality earnings with clear revenue visibility.
Businesses with an EBITDA of $1.5MM to $5MM.
Attractive and stable profit margins.
Low customer concentration and churn.
Businesses resilient to macroeconomic cycles.
Modest capital expenditures and net working capital requirements.
Strong marketing and sales capabilities critical for scaling.
Sellers who deeply care about their business's future success.
About Me
I am Scott Morrow, a seasoned executive with over 30 years of experience transforming businesses. I have expertise in three areas:
For the last five years, I have worked as an Executive Coach, exclusively focused on small business owners with revenues ranging from $10 million to $200 million. I have helped over 40 clients navigate various topics, including strategic planning, operations, marketing and sales, culture, cash management, M&A, succession and exit planning, and work-life balance. I am deeply connected to the psyche of small business owners and understand the peaks and valleys that come with running a business. I can be a great thought partner and friend to someone transitioning out of their business and considering the next chapter of their life.
As a three-time CEO of venture and private equity-backed companies, I have successfully scaled organizations and driven significant growth. I hold an MBA from the J.L. Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University, where I focused on entrepreneurship and marketing. My career legacy hinges on building strong teams, fostering innovation, and delivering exceptional results.
More than just an investor, I am a hands-on leader deeply committed to the success and well-being of your business, employees, and customers. I understand the importance of maintaining your company’s legacy and culture while driving forward with innovation and growth. I am passionate about making a positive impact and ensuring the business I acquire survives and thrives.
Business Search
My focus is on acquiring a single exceptional business. While I have clear criteria, I am open to opportunities that may fall slightly outside these parameters but demonstrate strong potential. Here are the key characteristics I look for in a potential acquisition:
I am interested in companies that provide essential services to other businesses. Ideally, the growth and value of the business should be centered around strong marketing and sales efforts.
I seek companies that generate more than $7 million in revenue with stable and healthy margins and are doing between $2 million and $5 million in profit.
A diversified customer base with low concentration.
Businesses with low capital expenditure or working capital requirements are referred.
A committed leadership team open to collaboration and strategic guidance, and possibly an owner who wishes to remain involved to preserve company culture and ensure a smooth leadership transition.
I am committed to partnering with a business that shares my vision for innovation, excellence, and sustainable growth. Unlike large private equity firms, I offer a personal touch and am 100% invested in the success of the company, its employees, and its customers. I will respect and preserve the company’s legacy and culture while driving forward with innovation and growth.
MY BLOG
I appreciate your interest in Cicada Fund. Whether you are a potential seller or investor or want to learn more about my mission, I would love to hear from you.
Please use the contact information below to reach out. I am committed to promptly responding and looking forward to our conversation.
Email: rsmorrow@cicadafund.com
Phone: 310-254-0765
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rsmorrow/
Alternatively, complete the contact form below and book time with me on my calendar.