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EtA plays a crucial role in addressing the succession challenges faced by aging business owners. It provides opportunities for a new generation of leaders to acquire and manage SMEs while offering investors access to a diverse and potentially lucrative asset class. In response to the limitations of the traditional SF model, a growing number of innovative players are entering the landscape, introducing alternatives such as EIR programs, platforms, and accelerators.
One of the latest entrants in the EtA space is All Interests Aligned (AIA), a new MBI platform founded by seasoned entrepreneurs turned investors, including Ralf Grass, Geert Pepping, and Pascal Teurquetil. AIA combines deep industry expertise with a mission to preserve and grow owner-operated businesses, ensuring their sustainability and resilience.
In Europe, SMEs account for 99.8% of all companies, contribute 52% of economic value, and employ 64% of the workforce. However, an aging population and declining interest from younger generations in taking over family businesses pose a threat to this vital ecosystem. AIA addresses this challenge by facilitating leadership transitions through MBIs, offering a lifeline to businesses at risk of stagnation or closure.
At the heart of AIA’s approach is its comprehensive MBI program, which matches carefully selected Operating Partners with SMEs facing succession challenges. These partners—experienced leaders with corporate and entrepreneurial expertise—step into CEO roles to ensure operational continuity while driving transformation and growth. Candidates must have at least five years of P&L responsibility, 15 years of professional experience, and a proven ability to navigate complex business environments.
AIA’s value proposition is built on three core pillars:
- Committed Capital: This eliminates equity gaps and fundraising challenges, ensuring every acquisition is fully supported from start to finish.
- Expertise and Guidance: With decades of entrepreneurial and leadership experience, AIA provides unparalleled support throughout the process.
- Mission-Driven Approach: AIA tackles the SME succession crisis head-on, securing businesses’ futures, protecting jobs, and strengthening local economies.
This holistic strategy positions AIA as a trusted partner in driving sustainable growth and successful business transitions.
AIA focuses its investments on European SMEs valued between €15-40M, with a history of profitability and strong growth potential in sectors such as manufacturing, business services, consumer products, healthcare, and technology. Through its committed capital and proven methodology, AIA ensures smooth transitions, safeguards jobs, and revitalizes businesses with fresh leadership.
AIA is redefining the MBI concept, demonstrating how a collaborative and strategic approach can transform challenges into opportunities for Europe’s business ecosystem. By 2030, the organization aims to be Europe’s leading partner for MBI transactions, facilitating the successful transition of countless businesses into their next growth phase.
As AIA’s mantra states, “By entrepreneurs, for entrepreneurs,” the company redefines how interests are aligned across stakeholders—creating value, preserving legacies, and fostering a sustainable future.
