Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA): Skip the Startup, Buy a Business

Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) is a pathway to owning, operating, and growing a business.

Buying a business is more accessible than you may think. Unlike starting from scratch, Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) focuses on acquiring an established business with a proven track record, customer base, and cash flow. This approach allows you to skip the early challenges of launching a startup and instead focus on driving growth and innovation in a business that’s ready for the next stage.

Event Schedule:

• 7:30 – 8:30 AM: Coffee and Networking
• 8:30 – 9:00 AM: Session 1 (Part 1) - Introduction to Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) with Neil Pollard, Teaching Assistant Professor, E@DU
• 9:00 – 9:30 AM: Session 1 (Part 2) - Franchising as an ETA Option with Kevin Betts, Sr. Executive Director, Liniger Center on Franchising
• 9:30 – 10:00 AM: Session 1 (Part 3) - Buying a Business from a Broker's Perspective with Carolyn Ryan, Founding Partner, Business Broker & Advisor, Main Ascent
• 10:00-10:15 AM: Break
• 10:15 – 11:15 AM: Session 2 - The ETA Process: Getting Ready as the Buyer with Sean Kearns, Adjunct Faculty, Daniels College of Business
• 11:15-11:30 AM: Q&A
• 11:15-11:45 AM: Break
• 11:45 AM – 12:30 PM: Session 3 - Buying a Business: Experience from an Entrepreneur with Sara Schaeffner, CEO & Principal, The Digital Frontier
• 12:30 PM: Closing Remarks
• 12:30 – 1:00 PM: Networking

*Free parking will be provided*

*Free admission, complimentary parking available*

Entrepreneurship@DU invites you to a half-day event designed for individuals interested in learning how to buy a business valued between $250,000 and $5 million. Space is limited, so don’t miss this opportunity to learn from industry experts about:
• How Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition works
• How ETA differs from simply purchasing a business
• Franchising as an ETA strategy
• How to find and evaluate a business for acquisition
• Navigating the financing and acquisition process

You'll also hear inspiring stories from entrepreneurs who have successfully acquired and scaled businesses.

This event is open to the public and ideal for anyone eager to explore ETA as a practical and rewarding pathway to entrepreneurship.