Strategic Tax Planning for Search Fund Entrepreneurs: Hosted by SD.tax Acquiring a business is only one part of the equation. The most successful search fund entrepreneurs begin structuring for taxes long before the acquisition closes. In this webinar, SD.tax explored the tax strategies that can help searchers preserve capital, increase after-tax returns, and build a more valuable company from acquisition through exit. The discussion covered each stage of the search fund lifecycle, beginning with fund formation and acquisition structuring. Topics included choosing the appropriate entity, understanding the tax implications of asset versus stock purchases, allocating purchase price under Section 1060, maximizing depreciation through cost segregation and bonus depreciation where applicable, and avoiding common tax mistakes during due diligence. The webinar then shifted to operating the acquired business, highlighting strategies to improve cash flow and reduce tax liability. Speakers discussed retirement plan design—including 401(k), Cash Balance, and Defined Benefit plans—R&D tax credits, accountable plans, executive compensation, state tax planning, and building financial reporting systems that support both operational decision-making and future diligence. Finally, the session focused on exit planning, emphasizing that value creation extends beyond EBITDA growth. Attendees learned how Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS), Opportunity Zones, installment sales, estate planning, charitable giving strategies, and transaction structuring can significantly impact net proceeds after a sale. The webinar concluded with practical recommendations for building tax efficiency into every stage of the search journey so founders, investors, and management teams can maximize long-term wealth creation.