M&A for startups

Sell, buy or consolidate — with method and discretion.

M&A (mergers and acquisitions) is the process of selling, buying or combining companies. DZB Invest provides M&A advisory for technology startups — running the transaction from assessment to closing, protecting the value of the business and the founder's time.

Start a confidential conversation See client companies
For your situation

Three situations. The same rigor.

Sell-side

I received an offer

An offer on the table changes the game. We evaluate the offer, create competitive tension and lead the negotiation to protect value and terms.

Preparation

I want to prepare for a sale

An exit is built before the offer. We organize the numbers, governance and narrative so the company reaches the market at the best moment.

Buy-side

I want to grow through acquisition

We map targets, assess strategic fit and lead the approach, valuation and negotiation — through integration.

Scope

What we deliver in every mandate.

Every transaction is unique, but the rigor is the same: thorough preparation, access to the right counterparties and negotiation led by people who know the technology market.

01
Valuation and value thesis
A well-grounded valuation and a narrative that supports the price.
02
Transaction materials
Teaser, info memo and data room organized for due diligence.
03
Counterparty mapping
Strategic buyers and targets, in Brazil and abroad.
04
Negotiation and structure
Management of proposals, terms and transaction structure.
05
Due diligence and closing
Coordination with legal and accounting advisors through closing.
Process

From first analysis to closing.

  1. Assessment
  2. Preparation
  3. Market
  4. Negotiation
  5. Closing
Phase 01

Assessment

Understanding the business, the numbers and the goal of the transaction.

Phase 02

Preparation

Valuation, materials and getting the house in order for due diligence.

Phase 03

Market

Confidential approach to selected counterparties.

Phase 04

Negotiation

Proposals, terms and structure — with competitive tension in the client's favor.

Phase 05

Closing

Final due diligence, contracts and closing coordinated through signing.

Absolute confidentiality. No information circulates without a signed non-disclosure agreement (NDA). From first contact to closing, the transaction is known only to those who need to know about it — inside and outside the company.

Frequently asked questions

What founders ask before getting started.

Is my company too small for M&A?

Not necessarily. Deals involving early-stage startups are common — strategic acquisitions, acqui-hires and consolidations happen at every size. What determines viability is the asset's strategic value, not just revenue.

How long does a transaction take?

It depends on the company's preparation and the market's appetite. Generally months — not weeks. The preparation phase has the greatest influence on the overall timeline, and it is precisely where advisory saves the most time.

How does confidentiality work?

Every contact with counterparties is preceded by an NDA. Sensitive information only enters the process in advanced phases, and the company's internal team is brought in at the right time — not before, not after.

I've already received an offer. Does advisory still make sense?

That is when it adds the most. A single offer is rarely the best offer. Structuring the process, bringing in alternatives and negotiating terms methodically usually changes the final outcome significantly.

How much does M&A advisory cost?

The most common model combines a reduced monthly retainer with a success fee paid only at the closing of the transaction. Percentages vary with the size and complexity of the deal — alignment is discussed transparently in the proposal.

Does DZB work on international transactions?

Yes. DZB Invest works on domestic and international transactions and sets up companies in Delaware and Cayman when the deal requires a counterparty or vehicle abroad.

Confidential conversation

The right time to talk about M&A is before you need to.

Start a confidential conversation