Hi all, I could use some advice from this group. Background: I’m a self-funded searcher focused on acquiring companies in a specific set of industrial sectors. My goal has been to build a portfolio of businesses in adjacent spaces and create compounding value over time (not a one-and-done deal). I had put together a small pool of capital to pursue this. However, I was laid off earlier this year, which has changed the equation quite a bit. At the moment: - I’m dipping into personal savings - Deal flow has been extremely limited, not just quality deals, but even seeing opportunities has been a challenge - Brokers/bankers seem hesitant to engage since I’m not yet an “operator-owner,” which makes breaking in harder than expected So I feel a bit stuck between a few paths: 1. Acquire a smaller / unrelated business Get into the game with something accessible (even if not ideal), build operator credibility → Concern: will it generate enough capital and positioning to move into my target sectors later? 2. Wait for the right deal Increase proprietary outreach, go more direct-to-owner, and push through the current friction → Concern: ongoing cash burn with uncertain timeline I’d really value perspectives from those who’ve been through this phase: - Is it better to optimize for entry (any decent business) or stay disciplined on sector thesis? - How did you break through broker gatekeeping early on? - If you had to restart, would you prioritize stability first or momentum first? Appreciate any candid thoughts, this phase is definitely tougher than it looks from the outside.