Oliver Enquist and Erich Lang had the opportunity to attend the 2025 Association for Corporate Growth (ACG) SEA Northwest Middle Market Growth Conference—an event that brought together over 300 M&A professionals for a full day of market insights, strategic conversations, and valuable connections.
Here are a few key takeaways from this year’s conference:
ACG Takeaways – Summer 2025
Divergent Approaches to PE Fundraising Are Becoming More Pronounced
The PE fundraising landscape continues to bifurcate. While large firms are successfully raising ever-larger funds, many mid-sized and smaller firms are still deploying prior capital or raising similarly sized follow-ons. We anticipate 2025 fundraising totals to be significantly lower than last year—both in fund volume and dollar value.
New Tax Legislation Brings Planning Opportunities for Business Owners
The Tax Legislation signed into law on July 4, 2025, includes many provisions sellers of privately held businesses should be mindful of. CPAs, attorneys, wealth managers, and investment bankers are all busy this summer advising business owners on planning opportunities based on the legislation.
2025 Will Have The Highest Number of M&A Transactions Closed Since 2021
Transaction activity has seen a notable rebound over the past eight weeks, with renewed confidence following a temporary slowdown attributed to tariff-related uncertainties earlier in the year. This resurgence reflects improved market sentiment and deal-making momentum that should last through December.
We’re grateful for the opportunity to connect with peers across the M&A ecosystem and stay ahead of the trends shaping the lower middle market.
Thank you to ACG and all the attendees for another insightful and energizing event!
