Family Office Introductions for Owners

Most owners have heard of private equity. Fewer have heard of family offices, even though they can be a good fit for owners who care about what happens to their company, their people, and their name after a deal. If you have wondered who else might be interested in your business, this is a plain look at family offices and how an introduction works.

One note up front: Ellsworth Capitol only makes introductions. We do not negotiate, value businesses, or act for either side. Everything after the introduction is between you, the investor, and your own advisors.

What is a family office?

A family office is a private organization that manages one family's wealth. Some focus on stocks and real estate. Others invest directly in privately held companies, buying all or part of a business and holding it. Because the money belongs to the family, each office sets its own goals, timeline, and style.

How family offices differ from private equity

Private equity firms usually invest money raised from outside investors through a fund, and many plan to sell a business again after a period of growth. Family offices invest their own capital, so some can be more flexible about timing and structure. That is a general pattern, not a rule. The only way to know how a specific investor works is to ask them.

Why owners consider a family office

Owners who want continuity for their employees and customers, a gradual transition, or a partner rather than a quick flip often want to hear from family offices. Some owners talk to both private equity and family offices and compare. Neither is right for everyone.

Questions to ask in a first conversation

How long do you usually hold a business? What role would you want me to play after a deal? How do you work with existing management and staff? Have you invested in my industry before, and can I speak with an owner you have partnered with? Their answers will tell you a lot about fit.

Get your own advisors first

Before you share details, line up an attorney and a CPA who work for you. They can review NDAs and letters of intent, help you understand your numbers, and explain what a transaction might mean for taxes.

How an introduction works

We start with a mutual NDA. You tell us about your business and what you want next. If an investor in our network looks like a fit, we ask your permission before sharing anything, then make the introduction. You decide who you talk to, what you share, and whether to move forward. We serve owners across every industry.

Frequently asked questions

What is a family office?

A family office is a private organization that manages and invests one family's wealth. Some invest directly in privately held businesses, and each one sets its own goals and approach.

How is a family office different from private equity?

Private equity firms usually invest money raised from outside investors in a fund, often with a planned timeline to sell. Family offices invest their own family's capital, so some can take a longer or more flexible view. Every investor is different, so ask each one directly.

Does a family office have to buy my whole business?

No. Depending on the investor and your goals, conversations can cover a full sale or a majority sale where you keep a role. You decide which paths to explore.

Is my information kept confidential?

Yes. Nothing about your company is shared with an investor without your written permission, and details move only under an NDA.

Do owners pay for a family office introduction?

No. Introductions are free for owners.

Wondering what investors look for in the first place? Read Is My Business Worth Anything to Private Equity?, or start with I Didn't Know I Could Sell My Business.