Resources

A curated set of free, open-access resources for investors, operators, and technologists navigating software M&A.

Reports and Analyst Insights

• PwC – Global M&A Trends in TMT (Technology, Media, Telecom): Regular outlooks on how AI, geopolitics, regulatory risk, etc. are shaping software & tech‐adjacent M&A.

• McKinsey Technology Trends Outlook: Breaks down frontier tech trends, talent & use‐cases that often become material risk or value drivers in acquisitions.

• Bain – M&A Report / M&A Trends & Outlook: Useful for seeing big‐picture deal metrics, shifting profit pools, and how technology disruption changes acquisition rationales.

Technical Due Diligence & Code Quality

• MEV – Technical Due Diligence: Practical framework for structuring diligence with a focus on identifying risks and opportunities.

• MadewithLove: Accessible guide covering people, processes, and product in diligence.

• Dealroom: Handy checklist covering product, architecture, infrastructure, and team.

• Django Stars: Comprehensive walkthrough, especially useful for mid-stage companies.

• Very Creatives: Startup-specific lens for acquirers.

• Cleveroad: Fresh update for 2025 expectations.

Open Source, Licensing & IP Risk

• Lexology: Legal primer on OSS license risks and deal protections.

• PwC: Early risk identification and compliance strategies.

• Blue Oak Council: Focus on reps, warranties, and negotiation.

• Linux Foundation: Downloadable guide on audit best practices.

• FOSSiD: Tips for codebase preparation, SBOM, and license tracking.

Process & Strategy Beyond Code

• AKF Partners: Framework for mindset-driven diligence.

• SystemVerification: Looks at infrastructure, processes, and operational risks.

Startup-Focused Diligence

• Codacy: Startup-oriented guidance on investor expectations.

Deal Lifecycle & M&A Execution

• Dealroom: Aggregator of blogs, checklists, and ebooks on deal flow and diligence.