HoldCo Builders How to Buy 4 Small Businesses CHEAP With Zero Finance Background | Nikolai Dimitrov Interview
Sep 23, 2025
Nikolai Dimitrov, founder of Unity Investment Partnership and former professional footballer, shares his journey from sports to acquiring small businesses in Central and Eastern Europe. He discusses his unique approach to acquisitions, emphasizing the importance of terms over price and utilizing seller financing. Nikolai recounts his struggles during a 12-18 month dry spell and how he built a strong team despite initial setbacks. He highlights the value of effective post-acquisition management and the significance of culture in growing his firm.
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From Professional Football To Acquisitions
- Nikolai quit professional football around COVID when he lost passion and decided to pivot careers.
- He prepared by reading, networking, and learning finance before doing deals.
Athlete Skills Translate To Dealmaking
- Nikolai saw transferable skills from sport: teamwork, resilience, and vision matter in acquisitions.
- He believed acquisitions offered a faster path to generational wealth than other options.
Learn Finance And Hire Transactional Talent
- Learn the language of finance even if you won't be the CFO; take courses to understand P&Ls and models.
- Build a small core team with transactional M&A, finance, and legal experience before hunting deals.