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Off-Market Deal Sourcing for Private Equity & Strategic Buyers

We connect serious buyers with motivated sellers — quietly, efficiently, and
off-market.

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We Find the Deals Others Miss

Black Flag Partners is a buy-side search firm. We work directly with private equity firms, independent sponsors, and strategic buyers to source and qualify acquisition opportunities that fit their exact criteria.

Our process is straightforward:

Define your buyer box.
Identify qualified, motivated sellers.
Deliver vetted introductions — no wasted time.

We focus on sectors where we have deep networks and proven sourcing results:

HVAC, plumbing, and electrical services
Managed IT services / MSPs
Niche home and B2B service businesses

Why Work With Us

Discreet. Targeted. Results-Driven.

Targeted Outreach.

Every lead meets your exact acquisition criteria.

Off-Market Access.

Reach owners who aren’t yet on a broker’s list.

Flexible Partnerships.

Finder’s fees, success fee share, or equity structures.

John Bates – Founder, Black Flag Partners

John Bates has spent his career building relationships, opening doors, and connecting decision-makers.
Before launching Black Flag Partners, he held senior roles in business development, communications, and strategic partnerships — working with high-level stakeholders in both the
private sector and government.

Background includes:

15+ years of relationship-driven dealmaking across business, politics, and non-profits.
Direct experience sourcing partnerships with CEOs, founders, and investors.
A track record of cold outreach that converts into high-value conversations.

Today, I leverage that experience to help buyers acquire great companies and help owners find the right next chapter for their business.

Let’s Talk Deals

If you’re a buyer with a clear acquisition mandate — or a business owner curious about your
options — let’s connect.