Welcome to Cicada Fund
Leading with Experience, Investing with Integrity
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.
Mission
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.
■ Revenue Visibility
High-quality earnings with clear revenue visibility.
■ EBITDA
Businesses with an EBITDA of $1.5MM to $5MM.
■ Stable Margins
Attractive and stable profit margins.
■ Customer Loyalty
Low customer concentration and churn.
■ Economic Resilience
Businesses resilient to macroeconomic cycles.
■ Capital Efficiency
Modest capital expenditures and net working capital requirements.
■ Growth Potential
Strong marketing and sales capabilities critical for scaling.
■ Legacy Care
Sellers who deeply care about their business's future success.
About Me
Meet Scott Morrow
I am Scott Morrow, a seasoned executive with over 30 years of experience transforming businesses. I have expertise in three areas:
- Integrating technology and streamlining operations.
- Creating a world-class marketing and sales culture to grow revenue.
- Forming large strategic partnerships that open up new markets
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
What I Look For
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:
Industry Focus
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.
Financial Performance
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.
Customer Base
A diversified customer base with low concentration.
Capital Requirements
Businesses with low capital expenditure or working capital requirements are referred.
Management Team
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
Read the latest insights from the industry.
Get in Touch
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.