Executive brief · Boards, VCs & PE
Organic revenue is an asset. Diligence it like one.
For marketplaces, e-commerce, SaaS and consumer internet companies, organic search can drive a large share of customer acquisition at near-zero marginal cost. It deserves the same scrutiny as any other material revenue line.
The questions
What you're really asking
And the straight answers we'd give you in the first meeting.
- How much of this company's growth depends on Google?Ask for the share of new customers and revenue from organic search, split into branded and non-branded. High non-branded dependence means higher upside and higher risk.
- Could an algorithm update or AI search wipe it out?It depends on whether traffic is built on unique value or on tactics. We look for concentration, thin or scaled content, link manipulation, and exposure to AI answers.
- Is the team capable of growing it?Many companies have SEO practitioners but no strategy, engineering support or measurement. That's often the biggest value creation lever post-close.
- What could go wrong in the first 100 days?Rebrands, replatforming and integrations are among the most common causes of sudden organic declines. They should be planned with SEO input before the deal closes.
- How should the board track it?Four or five metrics: organic revenue and share of acquisition, non-branded growth, share of search versus competitors, AI visibility, and risk indicators, reviewed quarterly.
How we help
What we do for you
Every engagement is led by a senior partner who has sat on your side of the table.
Pre-deal SEO due diligence
Independent analysis of organic revenue quality, durability and upside. Learn more →
Red-flag reviews
Outside-in assessment in days, to fit deal timelines.
100-day value creation plans
Prioritized organic growth initiatives with expected impact.
Portfolio advisory
Shared senior SEO leadership across portfolio companies.
Board reporting frameworks
Standard KPIs and risk indicators for every board pack.
Exit preparation
Documenting the durability and growth story buyers will diligence.
FAQ
Questions executives ask
Is SEO due diligence worth it for a smaller deal?
If organic search drives a material share of revenue or customers, a fast red-flag review is inexpensive insurance relative to the valuation impact of a hidden problem.
Can you assess a company without its cooperation?
Yes. An outside-in review using third-party data is possible early in a process; deeper analysis follows once access is granted.
Do you work across a portfolio?
Yes. Several engagement models support multiple portfolio companies with shared frameworks and senior advisory time.
Next step
Let's talk about what organic search should be worth to you.
A confidential 45-minute conversation with a senior partner. No pitch deck, no junior sales rep. You'll leave with a clear view of your organic upside, your biggest risks, and whether we're the right fit.