EVENTS
ETA Awards 2024
November
07
2024
Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition Awards (ETA Awards)
18:30 - 21:30
Landing Forty Two, 122 Leadenhall St, London EC3V 4AB
CELEBRATING ENTREPRENEURSHIP THROUGH ACQUISITION
Gerald Edelman is excited to announce that we will be hosting the ETA awards for the second year running, on Thursday 7 November 2024. This is the first awards ceremony of its kind for the industry.
We are delighted to once again be bringing together a network of searchers and entrepreneurs to celebrate their achievements and notable acquisitions over the past year.
The ETA awards spotlights promising and established searchers who have demonstrated their dedication and played a critical role in the ETA process, driving growth and success in the acquired companies.
The evening will be a great way to network with other searchers in London! Take a look at last year's event in this video to see for yourself!
AWARD CATEGORIES
Award categories
Lender of the Year. Sponsored by Marriott Harrison.
Most ETA deals involve the introduction of some debt capital. Some jurisdictions have easier access to debt capital than others and with Government support meaning there is less risk for both the lenders and borrowers. In the UK we are dependent on the risk appetite of the lenders to unlock deals and many of the high-street banks do not have the appetite for such transactions. This award will go to the lender who has enabled the sector to continue closing deals and unlocking value.
Community Contribution Award
The ETA community in the UK is particularly collaborative and supportive of one another. This award will go to the individual or business who has played a major role in bringing together the community and advancing the development of ETA in the UK.
Deal of the Year (Self-Funded). Sponsored by Shawbrook.
This award will go to the transaction executed by a self-funded acquisition entrepreneur that is independently judged to be the deal of the year within that category.
Great deals are made by creating win/win situations, so the value created for both buyer and seller is a critical factor.
When submitting your application, consider:
1) Succession
2) Cash generation of the Target
3) Organic growth prospects
4) Vertical/horizontal M&A growth opportunities
5) Security of jobs for employees/other stakeholder considerations
6) Rolled equity – will the buyer and seller benefit from post-deal growth?
7) ESG – was the deal created ethically, and does it consider relevant environmental and social factors?
Deal of the Year (Traditional)
This award will go to the transaction executed by a traditional search-fund acquisition entrepreneur that is independently judged to be the deal of the year within that category.
Great deals are made by creating win/win situations, so the value created for both buyer and seller is a critical factor.
When submitting your application, consider:
1) Succession
2) Cash generation of the Target
3) Organic growth prospects
4) Vertical/horizontal M&A growth opportunities
5) Security of jobs for employees/other stakeholder considerations
6) Rolled equity – will the buyer and seller benefit from post-deal growth?
7) ESG – was the deal created ethically, and does it consider relevant environmental and social factors?
ESG Excellence Award. Sponsored by JMW.
ESG is an increasingly important consideration for acquisition entrepreneurs and their investors. This award will celebrate the most ESG conscious searcher or investor.
How to nominate or enter the awards
The awards are open to anyone who meets the criteria of the related category for 2023/24.
Deadline for submissions is 2 September 2024.
To enter or nominate someone, please fill in the following form and make a statement as to why you, or the person you're nominating, deserves to win the award. Please ensure you consider the criteria under each award carefully. You can supply supporting images and documents, which might include testimonials, diagrams or any media coverage.
Enter Awards
Submit
OUR EXPERTS
Judging Panel
Coming soon!
SPONSORSHIP
Our Sponsors
Our sponsors demonstrate a commitment to excellence and genuine support for the ETA and Search Fund community.
We’re thrilled to once again have Shawbrook as the primary sponsor for our upcoming event! Their continued support is a testament to their dedication to the ETA and search fund space.
How to become a sponsor
Our sponsors have the opportunity to reach a wide audience with a genuine interest in the Search Fund. To sponsor the awards or discuss the packages in more detail, read our sponsorship brochure or contact us today!
OUR SPONSORS
Our 2024 sponsors!
How to attend
We'd love for you to come along and celebrate with us!
Tickets for the ETA Awards are £50 per person, which includes canapés and drinks.
Please note, there are limited tickets available.
Attend Awards
Submit
common questions
Frequently asked questions
What are the eligibility requirements for entering an award?
This will vary depending on the award, so it is important to read the eligibility criteria carefully before submitting an entry.
How do I submit an entry for an award?
Use the form above to submit your application. This should include a profile up to 2000 words on why you should win the award and a supporting document. This can be an image, testimonial, media coverage or financial information that supports the application.
When will I know if I have been shortlisted or won an award?
The nominations will be released on Friday 20 September.
Is there a dress code for the awards ceremony?
While we don't expect tuxedos and ballgowns, the dress code is cocktail for this event. It's a special night and we want to look our best! This includes suits and ties, cocktail dresses, smart trousers and shoes.
INSIGHTS
Here we share topical news, updates, and inspirational blogs.
