[Tyler Grimm]

I’m interested to hear from other’s success in corporate development, what resources you use to locate target companies, either buy or sell side. Also are you aware of any free or low cost resources not requiring an enterprise license for target search?

[Roberto Ochoa]

A few resources are Capital IQ, Bloomberg, EMIS, Factiva, and industry associations.

I’m not sure if there are free resources to do the screening analysis.

[Mohamed Soliman]

I was looking for a source to have data on mergers and acquisitions and was able to find S&P Capital IQ but unfortunately it’s with a fees and should be a corporate email to subscribe. couldn’t find a free one.

[Octavian Mihalcovici]

From my research, finding the right target companies for mergers and acquisitions requires a mix of paid platforms and creative approaches using free resources. While platforms like S&P Capital IQ, Bloomberg, and EMIS are excellent but expensive, I’ve come across a few free or low-cost alternatives that could be helpful:

1.LinkedIn and Professional Networks:
LinkedIn seems to be a widely used tool for identifying potential targets, especially with its advanced search filters (e.g., industry, company size, geography). Groups and forums focused on M&A or industry-specific discussions might also help uncover potential opportunities.

2.Government and Trade Databases:
Many countries offer government databases or export promotion agencies that provide company directories for free. These resources can be used to identify potential acquisition targets, especially in specific sectors.

3.Open Data Platforms:
Platforms like Crunchbase (for startups) and PitchBook (limited free access) provide basic company information. Additionally, public business registries in certain countries may allow free searches for company data.

4.Industry Publications and Newsletters:
Industry journals, trade associations, and newsletters frequently highlight growing companies, partnerships, or acquisition activity, which could provide leads for potential targets.

5.Local Chambers of Commerce or Business Councils:
Local chambers of commerce often maintain directories of their members, which can serve as a starting point for exploring smaller, regional companies.

While these free resources may not fully replace the functionality of premium tools like Capital IQ, they could offer valuable starting points for initial research. I’d love to hear if anyone has tried these approaches or has other low-cost methods to recommend for sourcing targets. Let’s share ideas!

[dawrelo]

When it comes to target search, I think a lot of people underestimate how similar the logic is across very different industries. In my own work I have seen that niche digital platforms often become interesting targets because they already solve a very specific user problem efficiently. For example, looking at something like a Last War recharge model helped me understand how focused marketplaces identify demand, optimize pricing, and build repeat usage without massive marketing spend. These kinds of platforms usually rely on data driven targeting and clear value propositions, which is exactly what many buyers look for when screening potential acquisition targets.

[Donna D]

Buy-side (finding acquisition targets)
1. Internal & relationship-driven sources like business units, JV partners, customers. Or management networks.
2. Investment banks & M&A advisors
3. Commercial databases like PitchBook or Capital IQ
4. Public & digital sourcing like LinkedIn or industry conferences, trade publications, press releases

Sell-side (finding buyers)
1. Investment banks
2. Existing shareholders & strategic partners
3. Market screening tools

Free or low-cost resources
Crunchbase
Dealroom (Free tier)
Google + advanced search

[Author]

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