Personal IPO Don’t Start a Side Hustle, Buy a Boring Business | Ben Kelly
6 snips
Dec 9, 2025 
Ben Kelly, an acquisition entrepreneur and founder of Acquisition Ace, shares his expertise in buying 'boring' small businesses with minimal upfront capital. He reveals how to leverage SBA loans and deals structured for profitability, making business acquisition accessible for many. Listeners learn about the 'Silver Tsunami' of retiring baby boomers relinquishing their businesses, and the importance of due diligence. With inspiring success stories and actionable insights, Ben illustrates why buying an established business can be more rewarding than starting a new venture.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
The Silver Tsunami Opportunity
- 13 million US small businesses are owned by baby boomers and will need new owners in the next decade.
- Only a fraction will sell, creating a large buyer market opportunity for acquisitions.
Three Criteria For Resilient Businesses
- Target businesses that are recession-resistant, have recurring revenue, and possess barriers to entry.
- Avoid project-based or easily replicated businesses like small landscaping outfits.
Why Banks Prefer Acquisitions Over Startups
- Banks prefer lending for acquisitions because acquired businesses over five years show high survival rates.
- SBA data shows about 95% of acquired firms remain operating after five years, reducing lender risk.