Real Learning, Tangible Results
Our students don't just study business acquisition theory—they practice it. Through hands-on projects spanning 18 months, participants develop genuine expertise by working on actual deals, building financial models, and conducting due diligence on real opportunities.
Foundation & Market Analysis
Students begin with comprehensive market research projects, learning to identify acquisition opportunities across different sectors. During this phase, they develop critical skills in financial statement analysis, industry benchmarking, and preliminary valuation techniques. Each participant completes three detailed market studies, building a portfolio of potential acquisition targets.
Due Diligence & Valuation Mastery
The intermediate phase focuses on advanced due diligence methodologies and sophisticated valuation techniques. Students work in small teams to conduct thorough examinations of actual businesses, including operational assessments, legal reviews, and comprehensive financial modeling. This stage emphasizes practical application of DCF analysis, comparable company valuations, and precedent transaction studies.
Deal Structuring & Integration Planning
The capstone phase challenges students to design complete acquisition strategies, including financing structures, negotiation frameworks, and post-acquisition integration plans. Working with real business scenarios, participants develop expertise in deal mechanics, regulatory considerations, and value creation strategies. Each student presents a comprehensive acquisition proposal as their final project.
Outstanding Achievement in Practice
This year's standout project involved a comprehensive analysis of a mid-market manufacturing business in Ontario. The student-led team conducted an 8-week due diligence process, identifying key operational improvements and developing a detailed acquisition strategy that impressed industry professionals.
Meredith Blackwood
Led acquisition analysis of M manufacturing company
Ready to Build Real Expertise?
Applications for our September 2025 cohort open in June. The program combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, preparing you for the complexities of business acquisition through practical application.
Explore Our Program