Kingchih Fan, commonly referred to as KC, is a prominent entrepreneur, investor, and educator. With extensive experience in private equity, growth marketing, and technology entrepreneurship, KC has made significant contributions to the business world. His unique approach to investment and business growth has earned him recognition in various sectors.
Professional Background
The Buy Build Fund
KC is the founder and General Partner of The Buy Build Fund, a firm focused on acquiring profitable businesses and improving their operations through digital transformation. The firm’s partners have invested in over 100 companies, showcasing their expertise in identifying and enhancing business value.
iGOTHAM
In addition to his role at The Buy Build Fund, KC founded iGOTHAM, an investment firm that collaborates with private equity firms, family offices, and independent sponsors to co-invest in promising businesses. iGOTHAM utilizes advanced technology and automation to source proprietary deals before they reach auction stages, offering exclusive opportunities to its partners.
Previous Roles and Achievements
Kingchih Fan’s impressive career includes key roles in various renowned organizations:
- Operating Partner at The Riverside Company: KC contributed to scaling B2B SaaS companies and driving growth marketing initiatives for a private equity firm managing over $10 billion in assets.
- Chief Business Officer at SIB Fixed Cost: During his tenure, KC played a pivotal role in increasing the company’s valuation by more than ten times within three years.
- Venture Capital Engagement Lead at Microsoft: In this role, KC fostered relationships with venture capital firms across the East Coast, driving partnerships and innovation.
- Co-founder of LiftDNA: KC co-founded LiftDNA, a technology company specializing in programmatic advertising solutions. The company achieved $10 million in gross revenue within 2.5 years before merging with OpenX.
Academic Credentials
KC holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from The University of Chicago and is a CFA® charterholder. His strong educational foundation in economics and finance has been instrumental in shaping his investment strategies.
Expertise and Skills
Kingchih Fan possesses a diverse skill set that spans multiple domains:
- Entrepreneurship: Guiding startups from inception to successful growth.
- Private Equity: Acquiring and managing businesses to maximize value.
- Technology: Leveraging technological advancements to streamline business operations and enhance efficiency.
- Growth Marketing: Implementing strategies to drive customer acquisition and revenue growth.
Contributions to Education
As an adjunct professor at NYU Stern School of Business, KC teaches the course “Entrepreneurship through Acquisition,” which focuses on helping students learn how to find, value, and acquire existing businesses. His practical approach to teaching equips students with real-world skills essential for business success.
Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition
The course “Entrepreneurship through Acquisition” at NYU Stern is designed to provide students with hands-on knowledge of:
- Identifying potential acquisition targets
- Valuing businesses accurately
- Structuring acquisition deals
KC’s real-world experience in business acquisition and investment enhances the learning experience for his students, making him a highly respected educator.
Key Contributions Summary
| Role | Organization | Key Contributions |
|---|---|---|
| General Partner | The Buy Build Fund | Leading the acquisition and growth of profitable businesses |
| Founder | iGOTHAM | Partnering with firms to source exclusive investment opportunities |
| Operating Partner | The Riverside Company | Driving growth marketing and scaling B2B SaaS portfolio companies |
| Chief Business Officer | SIB Fixed Cost | Contributing to a tenfold increase in company valuation |
| Venture Capital Engagement Lead | Microsoft | Establishing and managing East Coast Venture Capital Partnerships |
| Co-founder | LiftDNA | Building a programmatic advertising platform and achieving a successful merger with OpenX |
| Adjunct Professor | NYU Stern School of Business | Teaching entrepreneurship and acquisition strategies |
Key Business Strategies
KC’s business strategies are centered around:
- Digital Transformation: Enhancing operational efficiency by integrating advanced digital tools and platforms.
- Proprietary Deal Sourcing: Utilizing technology-driven methods to identify unique investment opportunities.
- Value Creation: Focusing on long-term growth and sustainability by implementing effective operational changes.
Conclusion
Kingchih Fan’s multifaceted career as an entrepreneur, investor, and educator underscores his deep commitment to fostering business growth and innovation. His leadership at The Buy Build Fund and iGOTHAM, combined with his teaching role at NYU Stern, has made him a key figure in the world of private equity and entrepreneurship. Aspiring business leaders can gain valuable insights from his approach to acquisition, investment, and digital transformation.
By focusing on actionable strategies and leveraging technology for growth, Kingchih Fan continues to inspire and guide the next generation of entrepreneurs and investors.
