Full Breakdown
University of Utah Launches First Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition Summit
8/29/2025, 12:13:44 PM
Introduction to the ETA Summit
On September 25, 2025, the University of Utah's Lassonde Entrepreneur Institute will host its inaugural Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) Summit at the David Eccles School of Business. This event marks the launch of the university's new ETA program, the first of its kind in the Mountain West region. ETA, which allows entrepreneurs to acquire and grow existing businesses rather than starting from scratch, has gained traction since its inception at Stanford University in the 1980s. The program aims to prepare MBA and master’s students for careers in private equity.
Objectives and Structure of the ETA Program
Scott Holley, Executive Director of the Lassonde Entrepreneur Institute, emphasized the necessity for a dedicated ETA program in Utah, stating, “Our goal is to build a pipeline that places graduates directly into ETA opportunities.” The ETA model follows a five-step process: fundraising, search, transaction, operation, and exit. The summit will feature keynotes, panels, and breakout sessions that cover each stage of the ETA process, attracting investors, entrepreneurs, business owners, and graduate students.
Key Speakers and Participants
The summit will include notable speakers such as Karen Spencer, co-founder of searchfunder.com; Mark Jansen, a professor of finance and experienced search fund investor; and Chase Murdock, CEO of Decada Group. Other participants include Heather Barber, a serial ETA entrepreneur, and Dan Hanks, a partner at Peterson Partners, a leading institutional search-fund investor based in Utah. Holley indicated that the program aims to graduate two to three students annually, each equipped with extensive investor networks and placement strategies.
Importance of the ETA Program
The introduction of the ETA program is significant for Utah's entrepreneurial landscape. It aims to position the state as a national leader in ETA, addressing a clear need for structured pathways into private equity. The program is expected to enhance the skills and opportunities available to aspiring entrepreneurs, thereby contributing to the local economy.
Official Statements and Responses
Holley remarked on the potential impact of the program, stating, “We want Utah to emerge as a national leader in ETA.” This sentiment reflects a broader ambition to cultivate a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem in the region.
Criticism and Opposition
While the initiative has garnered support, some critics may question the feasibility of establishing a successful ETA program in a region where such frameworks are still developing. Concerns may also arise regarding the accessibility of the program for underrepresented groups in entrepreneurship.
What's Next for the ETA Program
Following the summit, the Lassonde Entrepreneur Institute plans to implement the ETA program, focusing on building a strong network of graduates who can successfully navigate the complexities of acquiring and managing existing businesses. Registration for the summit is currently open, inviting a diverse audience to engage in discussions about the future of entrepreneurship through acquisition.
Conclusion
The ETA Summit at the University of Utah represents a pivotal step in fostering entrepreneurship in the Mountain West. By equipping students with the necessary tools and networks, the program aims to create a new generation of entrepreneurs ready to thrive in the competitive landscape of private equity.
