How we invest.

Our investment approach   

At smallfish, we focus on creating value through strategic partnerships with small but strong, enduring brands. Our approach is rooted in providing the capital, back end support, and resources necessary to support long term growth.

We believe in playing to our strengths to amplify yours, utilizing a data-driven and disciplined approach to make informed investment decisions. Our support goes beyond financial backing; we offer back end support and strategic sharing, ensuring that each brand we partner with has the tools to thrive in a competitive market.

What we look for.

Our investment criteria 

We seek to invest in brands that demonstrate a proven track record of success. This includes a strong market presence, consistent profitability, and a management team dedicated to long-term growth. Our ideal partners are those who share our commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and long term value creation. 

What’s the process.

Our investment process    

Our investment process is designed to be thorough, efficient yet simple, ensuring smooth transitions and sustainable growth. It begins with an in-depth assessment of the business, followed by detailed discussions to align goals and expectations. After the buy-in, we integrate our resources and back end support to enhance operational efficiency and support growth initiatives. This structured approach ensures that both parties are well-prepared for a successful partnership.

What we do after.

Post partnership integration 

We provide a suite of shared services—spanning finance, HR, and data analytics—designed to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of your business. Our approach fosters a collaborative community where ideas, strategies, and best practices are shared, enabling every partner to reach their full potential. Beyond the initial investment, we remain steadfast in our commitment to your success, offering ongoing strategic input and resources to help you thrive in the long term.

Why partner with us? 

Less lonely, less risk, less work. More time, more wealth

Partnering with smallfish means less work, less risk, and less loneliness, but more time, more wealth, and more support. We understand the challenges of running a business, and our partnership model is designed to alleviate those burdens, allowing you to focus on what you do best. With our resources and expertise at your disposal, you can grow your business with confidence, knowing that you have a trusted partner by your side every step of the way.

The smallfish way

STEP 1: Introduction Process

Timeline: Less than 1 day

 

  • Sign a confidentiality agreement
  • Make sure your business fits our criteria
  • Share 3 years of financial info
  • Align on values: support, freedom, partnership
  • Talk about your goals and future plans

STEP 2: Planning

Timeline: 1-4 weeks

  • Meet the team
  • Discuss your goals and business objectives
  • Work out the deal including terms and schedule
  • Sign the basic agreement
  • Develop solutions for finance, HR, IT, and marketing

STEP 3: Final Checks

Timeline: 6-8 weeks

 

  • Visit your business for a deeper look
  • Make sure everything fits well for the long term
  • Finalize the purchase agreement
  • Set up how we’ll work together on shared services and support

STEP 4: Finalizing

Timeline: 1 - 7 days

  • Complete the payment
  • Inform your team
  • Start tapping on to our shared services
  • Focus on running the business with our support

Frequently asked questions

We’ll discuss and align our expectations from the beginning to ensure a smooth partnership.

We value support, freedom, partnership, and sustainability. We aim to build strong, enduring brands that last. 

We handle the buy-in process discreetly, working with you to manage communications with your team and stakeholders.

Trust is key. We focus on clear communication, mutual respect, and aligning our goals from the start.

Absolutely! You can grow your new outlets independently, and we have the first right of refusal to invest. If we pass, you can propose to others. 

We support your goals, whether it’s expansion, upgrades, lean operations, or new ideas. The direction is up to you, and we’re here to help.

We are committed to keeping your existing team in place and ensuring you retain full authority over staffing matters. Our approach respects you and your team expertise with our top priority being consistency in the business. 

Yes, we get first right of refusal on new projects. You can still innovate and expand, with us having the option to invest.

We ensure a smooth transition with plans that keep your business and team stable. We’ll work together to address any concerns.

We get it. We’re all about trust and transparency. Our trial period gives you a no-risk way to see if we’re the right match.

We typically require a 50% stake, allowing you to lead your brand with our support. You can also try us out with a trial period where you can back out if it’s not a good fit.

We’re here to help your F&B business with our resources and peer support while you are in control. Think of us as your strategic partner, not just an investor.

Our trial period, typically lasting [e.g., 3–6 months], allows you to try our shared services and experience our partnership. You’ll have the flexibility to adjust or step back if it doesn’t feel right.