About AP Catalyst
AP Catalyst is a pioneering program that connects exit-ready, angel-backed companies with private equity firms actively seeking acquisitions. This pilot program features a dynamic "speed dating" format, allowing companies to showcase their potential to multiple Private Equity (PE) firms in rapid succession. AP Catalyst is organized and sponsored by PixelEdge.
Objectives
Facilitate successful exits for presenting companies
Foster lasting relationships between PE firms and angel group leaders to streamline future exits
Who Should Attend
Exit-ready portfolio companies of Angel Capital Association (ACA) members
Private equity firms looking for promising acquisitions
Angel group leaders seeking to expand their network and exit opportunities
Participating Angel Groups
Benefits
For presenting companies
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Direct access to multiple PE firms
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Efficient way to explore exit opportunities
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Valuable feedback on company positioning
For PE firms
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Pipeline of vetted, exit-ready companies
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Efficient deal sourcing
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Relationship building with angel networks
For angel group leaders
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New exit avenues for portfolio companies
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Strengthened ties with PE community
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Insights into PE acquisition criteria
How It Works
Our speed dating format allows each presenting company to engage in multiple brief, focused meetings with interested PE firms. This efficient structure maximizes exposure and potential matches in a single event.
Application Process
ACA angel investors nominate companies in their portfolio​
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​​​Review Criteria and Study PE Firms
Before applying, please review the participating PE firms’ websites and criteria (below) to ensure your portfolio company is a good fit. We're looking for mature, profitable companies ready for the next stage of growth or exit. Additionally, study the websites of participating PE firms to understand their investment focus and criteria. This research will help you determine if your portfolio company aligns with their interests.
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Attend/Watch the December webinar
This webinar features representatives from private equity firms who will provide insights on how companies can effectively position their pitches to maximize appeal and attract private equity investment. Angel investors should attend to learn about how to help position their portfolio companies.​
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​Nominate CEOs (starting 6 January 2025)
If you believe a portfolio company meets the criteria and you are a member of the Angel Capital Association:
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Log into the ACA Syndication Platform.
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New to the platform? Request an account.
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Click the "AP Catalyst" button on the top navbar
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This button does not appear until nomination open on 6 January.
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Enter the CEO's email address.
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After You’ve Nominated a Portfolio Company:
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We'll email detailed instructions to the CEO and copy you
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CEO must complete their application by January 27 @ 11:59pm US Eastern
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Participating PE firms will review nominees and select companies for the showcase
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If your nominee is selected, you & they will be invited to attend the February 26th event
CEOs of nominated companies complete the application form
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​Register interest
Click Register and complete the form to register your interest for the event.
​Attend/Watch the December webinar
This webinar features representatives from leading private equity firms who will provide insights on how companies can effectively position their pitches to maximize appeal and attract private equity investment. CEOs can use this information when preparing their application in January.
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Complete the Application Form
When you get your nomination email, fill out our concise application form by the deadline. This form captures key information about your company's financials, growth trajectory, and exit readiness.
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If you don't have a nomination email, check with your investor to make sure they've nominated you. If they have and you still don't have the nomination email, check your spam folder. If it isn't there either, please contact PixelEdge.
Participating PE Firms And Their Criteria
$2-15 million EBITDA
Add-ons of any size
$20–100M Revenue
$5-$25M in Revenue, Growing
20-100%+ Annually, Recurring
Revenue, High Retention and
Attractive Unit Economics, Capital Efficient
(Low to No Cash Burn)
$5-$25M revenue, path to EBITDA margins in the 20% range
$10-100M Revenue
$2-12M EBITDA
20%/yr growth
$3M+ EBITDA
$10-$25M Revenue
$2-20 million in Revenue with strong track record of growth
$0-4 million in EBITDA
>$10M ARR
>15% Growth
On track to profitability
Gross Margins: Software >65%;
Services >40%
Education & Training
Marketing Services & Sales Enablement
Services to Healthcare Payors & Providers
Human Capital Management
B2B Software
B2B Software
Service, SaaS based including healthcare, financial services, and niche manufacturing
Tech and tech-enabled services, healthcare, and business services
Insurance & Financial Services, Healthcare & Business Services, and Tech-Enabled Services & Communications businesses
Manufacturing and Manufacturing Technology
Business Services
Healthcare Services
Manufacturing
Consumer Products
Infrastructure Services
Technology/Software
Value-Added Distribution
B2B Software
Tech-Enabled managed services
Headquartered in North America
Global
North America + UK / EMEA
(NO Silicon Valley)
Not indicated
Headquartered in USA/Canada
US, Canada, Europe
US
In or near the US Mid-Atlantic
Headquartered in North America
Event Organizer, Sponsor, and Contact Information
This event is organized and sponsored by PixelEdge. We accelerate EBITDA growth and exit multiple expansion for PE-backed business services firms through tailored software solutions that unlock untapped value. Our clients include KPMG, TimeWarner, and portfolio companies of the London Stock Exchange Group and KKR.
Contact person:
Paul Silva, Chief Innovation Officer
Email: paul.silva@pixeledge.io
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Partner
Angel Capital Association is pleased to partner with PixelEdge on this event.
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FAQs
Q: How are companies selected to present?
A: Companies are nominated by angel investors and vetted based on their readiness for PE acquisition.
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Q: Is there a cost to participate?
A: There is No Fee. Zero dollars. No equity. No carry. None. The only thing we ask is that your participate in an exit interview after the event.
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Q: How long are the "speed dating" sessions?
A: Each session typically lasts 15-20 minutes, allowing for meaningful introductions and discussions.