Buy a Business Instead of Starting One? Here's Why

The problem this guest solves:Founders waste years building businesses from scratch when they could grow faster and safer by acquiring one that already works.Most entrepreneurs are taught one path: start from zero, raise money, give up equity, and hope it works.But what if there’s a smarter way?In this episode of the Knack 4 Business Podcast, host Bernie Franzgrote sits down with Dave McFarland, investor, advisor, and founder of FocusOPEX, to explore why buying a business can be a faster, less risky path to growth than starting one from scratch—especially in North America.Dave shares real stories from over 35 years in manufacturing, biotech, and operations, explaining how acquisitions give founders instant cash flow, teams, and systems. He breaks down why funding an acquisition is often easier than funding a startup, and why “deal heat” can destroy even good opportunities.The conversation dives into anti‑fragile businesses—companies that don’t just survive stress but grow stronger because of it. Dave explains how smart structure, due diligence, and the right deal team help founders avoid hidden risks like bad contracts, legal exposure, and cash‑flow traps.This episode is practical, tactical, and designed for real business owners—not Wall Street.🎥 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/00u5vYDiCCA KEY TOPICS COVEREDWhy “Don’t build it. Buy it.” is more than a sloganBusiness acquisition vs startup fundingHow SBA loans, seller financing, and deal stacks workWhat due diligence really protects you fromFragile vs anti‑fragile companies (and why it matters)How to avoid “deal heat”Structuring acquisitions with SPVs and holding companiesManaging bandwidth after buying a business WHO THIS PODCAST IS FORStartup founders, solopreneurs, small business buyers, investors, and scaling business owners across North America. WHAT YOU’LL GAINActionable insights, real acquisition strategies, smarter funding options, and lessons that help you grow faster while reducing risk. GUEST LINKS & RESOURCESDave McFarland (LinkedIn):https://www.linkedin.com/in/davemcfarland-investor-advisor-innovator/FocusOPEX Website:https://focusopex.com/ HOSTSBernie Franzgrote:https://link.v1ce.co.uk/berniefranzgroteWayne Pratt:https://www.linkedin.com/in/prattwayne/ ACKNOWLEDGING SUPPORTING CONTRIBUTORSCarl Richards – Podcast Solutions Made SimpleWebsite: https://podcastsolutionsmadesimple.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carl-richards-3a0a223/Fred Crouch – Property Wizard PodcastWebsite: https://tinyurl.com/3psh5bdkLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frederick-fred-crouch-fri-acom-clo-cres-03a329b1/Jovan Strika – Hive CoworkingWebsite: https://tinyurl.com/4dmcxah8LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jovan-strika-800935/Melanie Webber – Business PartnerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-webber-879806128/ SPONSORS (BEST FIT FOR THIS AUDIENCE)Canada Growth NetworkBusiness networking + GoHighLevel CRM for SMBs and solopreneurs$47 CAD / mo.👉 https://tinyurl.com/3s5d3ayvWebIndexerTurn your website into a 24/7 sales assistant with AI chat.👉 https://tinyurl.com/yav4edf5East Trade WindsFree networking that leads to real business relationships.👉 https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUlf-msrzktGdz-UTwX8Tv6CK5Lu3tacGI9 CALL TO ACTION📩 Send comments or questions to👉 [e-mail]🌐 Learn more at👉 https://knack4business.com/💬 Read more, comment, and join the conversation.What would you buy instead of build? Disclaimer: Please note that the Knack 4 Business podcast episodes are meant solely for educational and general informational purposes. The information and opinions contained within are not intended to be professional advice on any subject matter. The thoughts, views, and opinions expressed by the participants are their own beliefs and do not represent the views of the podcast hosts or any affiliated organizations.It is important to note that this podcast is not a replacement for consulting with certified experts in your area who possess knowledge of your unique situation. The hosts of the podcast, along with any participants or affiliated groups, do not take responsibility for any actions taken or not taken based on the information presented in this episode.It is highly recommended that individuals seek guidance from their advisors in fields such as accounting, law, or other pertinent areas prior to undertaking any actions or making decisions that may impact their financial, legal, or other aspects of life. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.