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Belgium-based Wad Capital defines itself as an ETA Accelerator, more precisely, as a kind of incubator enabling outstanding entrepreneurs to buy and build exceptional businesses. Recently launched by Alain R.H. Brossé, Steven Coppens, and Christopher Tournis Gamble, they will deploy €100M to acquire the first dozen of acquisitions in 2024/2025.
Alain, with over three decades of diverse experience, is known for his strategic prowess in corporate strategy, nurturing startups, and effectively scaling them. Steven brings seasoned expertise in investment leadership and entrepreneurial ventures, with an extensive background in business transformation and digital growth strategies. Christopher has an acumen in technology-driven innovation and strategic investments, having achieved a MOIC of 7.5x at Sima Ventures, reflecting his strategic acumen in realizing substantial returns on investments. Backed by an investment committee, the team has a hands-on strategy, being involved in all processes from search to post-management phase.
Their investment strategy is to leverage the traditional SF model, creating scalability. One of their key advantages is drastically shortening the acquisition cycle, aiming to reduce it to only 12 months. Entrepreneurs won’t lose time in the fundraising process or trying to resolve potential equity gaps during the acquisition, as Wad Capital will provide 100% of the necessary capital for the buyout and agile growth strategies. Moreover, their tech-driven approach allows searchers to quickly identify investment opportunities, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing within their strong community of entrepreneurs. In terms of investment geographical preferences, they concentrate on SMEs within a 300 km radius of Brussels, meaning they will explore potential opportunities in Belgium, France, Luxembourg and Germany. Their sector focus targets industries with the greatest potential for growth and transformation, including healthcare, digital transformation, and clean energy. These sectors are crucial for future development and align with the EU’s economic enhancement goals for sustainable development and technological advancement.
After a meticulous selection process, Wad Capital will start in July with the first cohort of 10 elected future CEOs from among more than 250 qualitative applicants. These early-40s professionals will benefit from comprehensive training to enhance M&A acumen, leadership skills, and operational excellence, personalized mentorship, strategic networking, and tactical execution. They will receive a 20% share of the future company they acquire, while Wad Capital will hold the remaining 80%.
Steven Coppens comments that “WAD Capital is poised to capitalize on the €7 trillion opportunity presented by business succession in the European economy. With many SME owners nearing retirement without clear succession plans, our model not only ensures the continuity of these businesses but also revitalizes them for future competitiveness and growth. This market potential is vast, with an estimated 300,000 SMEs facing succession challenges within the next ten years across our target regions. Furthermore, we embrace sustainable and responsible business practices through the integration of the CARE-PROFIT model into our investment strategy. Aligned with contemporary ESG principles, this model pragmatically emphasizes the balance between ethical responsibilities and profitability. In doing so, we ensure that our investments maintain both ethical integrity and economic viability, striving to establish a new industry standard for responsible investment.“
