Certificate in Preparing Your Company for Investment or Acquisition by Private Equity

Course Description

The Certificate in Preparing Your Company for Investment or Acquisition by Private Equity is designed for founders, CEOs, CFOs, and senior management teams seeking to secure private equity investment or navigate the complexities of acquisition. This comprehensive course equips participants with the knowledge and tools to successfully attract private equity firms by understanding their expectations, preparing for due diligence, enhancing company value, and negotiating favorable deals. Through practical case studies, interactive exercises, and real-world insights, participants will learn how to position their companies for growth, align with value-added investors, and drive long-term success under private equity ownership.

Course Structure 

This course is structured into five distinct modules, each accompanied by targeted lessons. Your learning journey will cover the following key areas: 

Module 1: Understanding Private Equity

In this module, you will explore the fundamental concepts of private equity, starting with a clear definition and overview of how PE firms operate, their investment strategies, and the typical life cycle of a private equity deal as well as examine why private equity firms invest in certain companies. 

Module 2: Preparing for Private Equity Due Diligence

In this module, you will explore the key areas of due diligence that private equity firms focus on and provide insights into how your company can prepare for a thorough review. From financial due diligence—where accurate financial statements, projections, and metrics are scrutinized—to operational, legal, and commercial due diligence, this module covers the vital aspects that determine a company’s readiness for private equity investment. 

Module 3: Enhancing Company Value for Private Equity Investment 

This module covers essential strategies for Financial Performance Improvement, including enhancing profitability, optimizing capital structure, and driving revenue growth. You will delve into Operational Excellence, exploring best practices for improving efficiency, leveraging technology, and examining real-world case studies of operational success. 

Module 4: Identifying and Partnering with Value-Added Private Equity Firms 

This module will guide you through the characteristics that define a value-added private equity partner, including their ability to provide strategic guidance, access to networks, and additional resources. You will delve into evaluating potential partners by researching their backgrounds, assessing strategic fit, and asking the right questions during investor meetings. 

Module 5: Navigating the Private Equity Deal Process 

This module then explores Structuring the Deal, covering various structures such as equity, debt, and convertible notes, and how to align these structures with both company and private equity goals while considering tax implications. 

At the conclusion of each module, you will find a comprehensive module summary along with a set of multiple-choice questions designed to reinforce your understanding. This course incorporates numerous practical examples and offers a variety of downloadable resources, including a detailed study guide, to support your learning experience.

Upon completing the course, you will have the opportunity to assess your knowledge through a final assessment consisting of multiple-choice questions based on the course content. This open-book exam allows you to reference course materials, and you may attempt the assessment as many times as necessary to achieve the passing score.

Once you have successfully passed the assessment, you will be eligible to receive an official certificate of completion.  

Course Overview

Learning Objectives

• Identify what private equity firms seek in target companies and how to meet those expectations.
• Successfully organize financial, operational, and legal documentation for private equity reviews.
• Enhance key areas of the business to increase attractiveness for investors.
• Evaluate and select private equity firms that provide strategic support beyond capital.
• Understand each stage, from initial contact to negotiations, and how to position for favorable outcomes.
• Develop and maintain effective communication and alignment with private equity firms for long-term success.

Target Audience

• Founders & Entrepreneurs: Business owners looking to attract private equity investment or prepare their companies for acquisition.
• CEOs & CFOs: Senior executives responsible for strategic growth, financial management, and investor relations in preparation for private equity engagement.
• Senior Management Teams: Key decision-makers involved in operational, financial, and strategic planning to enhance company value and investment readiness.
• Corporate Development & M&A Professionals: Individuals managing investment strategy, acquisitions, and partnerships seeking to understand private equity expectations.
• Financial & Legal Advisors: Consultants, investment bankers, and legal professionals supporting businesses in private equity transactions, due diligence, and deal structuring.

Requirements

To participate in the Certificate in Preparing Your Company for Investment or Acquisition by Private Equity, you will need an internet-enabled device capable of streaming video content and accessing course materials. No prior experience in private equity is required, but a basic understanding of business operations, finance, or corporate strategy will be beneficial. A background in finance or corporate law may provide additional context, though it is not necessary. Most importantly, participants should be prepared to engage with case studies, interactive exercises, and strategic insights to effectively apply the course material.

Learning Method

This Certification Program is delivered entirely online, allowing participants to complete modules at their own pace and on their own schedule. Designed to accommodate busy professionals, the interactive and engaging learning approach fosters a supportive environment, leading to exceptional certification completion rates.

Course Curriculum

Introduction to Certificate in Preparing Your Company for Investment or Acquisition by Private Equity

• Introduction
• Why Private Equity Firms Invest
• The Impact of Private Equity on Companies
• What to Expect During the Investment Process
• Myths and Realities of Private Equity Ownership
• Module Summary
• Multiple Choice Quiz

Module 1: Understanding Private Equity

• What is Private Equity
• Why Private Equity Firms Invest
• The Impact of Private Equity on Companies
• What to Expect During the Investment Process
• Myths and Realities of Private Equity Ownership
• Module Summary
• Multiple Choice Quiz

Module 2: Preparing for Private Equity Due Diligence

• Financial Due Diligence
• Operational Due Diligence     
• Legal Due Diligence
• Commercial Due Diligence
• ESG and Responsible Business Practices
• Module Summary
• Multiple Choice Quiz

Module 3: Enhancing Company Value for Private Equity Investment

• Financial Performance Improvement
• Operational Excellence
• Strategic Growth Initiatives
• Building a Strong Management Team
• Preparing for Exit Strategies
• Module Summary
• Multiple Choice Quiz

Module 4: Identifying and Partnering with Value-Added Private Equity Firms

• What Makes a Value-Added Private Equity Partner
• Evaluating Potential Private Equity Partners
• Aligning Goals and Expectations with Private Equity
• Leveraging Private Equity Networks and Expertise
• Managing the Relationship with Private Equity Partners
• Module Summary
• Multiple Choice Quiz

Module 5: Navigating the Private Equity Deal Process

• Negotiating the Term Sheet
• Structuring the Deal
• Managing the Investment Relationship
• Post-Investment Value Creation
• Preparing for Future Funding Rounds or Exits
• Module Summary
• Multiple Choice Quiz

Conclusion

• Conclusion

Final Certification Test

• Final Certification Test

FAQ

What are the requirements to take the courses?

Our certification programs are open to students and professionals across various industries and experience levels. The curriculum covers fundamental concepts to advanced case studies, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience. To access the courses and complete exercises, you will need a PC or Mac, a smartphone or tablet, and a stable internet connection.

Can I download course materials and resources?

Yes! All course materials, including study guides, audiobooks, and slide decks, are available for download. Simply navigate to the resources area containing the files within your course to access them.

How long do I have to complete the courses?

Since all courses are self-paced, you can complete them at your convenience without any deadlines.

How do I earn my certificate?

To obtain your certificate, you must complete all video lessons, quizzes, and final assessments within the course. Once all requirements are met, an option to obtain your certificate will become available, allowing you to download it.

Will these courses help me advance my career?

Yes! Verdian courses are designed to equip learners with in-demand skills and practical expertise that are directly applicable to real-world industry needs. Our courses are built with the highest standards to provide valuable insights and actionable knowledge. As we grow, our commitment remains the same, to help professionals enhance their expertise and advance their careers with high-quality, industry-relevant education.

Have more questions?

Please don’t hesitate to contact us via email—we’re here to assist with any questions or concerns you may have.