In this episode of the Fusões & Visões podcast, recorded in December 2025, we talk to João Paulo Oliveira, founder and Managing Director of Sobreiro Capital, an investment fund operating under the Search Fund model (entrepreneurship through acquisition – ETA). João is a Portuguese entrepreneur, specialist in business intelligence and data science, and founder of the startup Build Analytics, later sold to a UK-based company. The conversation covers his professional journey, strategic decisions, challenges during the launch and sale of the startup, lessons learned, his decision to pursue an MBA in the United States, and the creation of Sobreiro Capital in Portugal.

The interview with João Paulo Oliveira offers a rich overview of entrepreneurship, management, fundraising, and innovative models such as entrepreneurship through acquisition. From his academic background to the successful exit of Build Analytics, through the preparation provided by his MBA and his return to Portugal to launch Sobreiro Capital, the discussion highlights the importance of taking calculated risks, maintaining a strong customer and market focus, and balancing strategic and human-centred management. The Search Fund model emerges as a solid alternative for fostering business growth, particularly in local markets. João reinforces the need for bolder and better-prepared entrepreneurs, noting that beyond technical expertise, continuous learning and emotional intelligence in negotiations are decisive for success. He also encourages new entrepreneurs to study real cases and build strong support networks to navigate the complexity of the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

What the viewer will learn
The importance of resilience, risk analysis, creating value through data, structuring company sales, understanding the Portuguese market, and the specificities of the Search Fund model.

Timeline
00:00 - Introduction and personal background
04:15 - Early career and key experiences
10:00 - Origins of Build Analytics and major challenges
23:00 - The process of selling Build
34:00 - Reflections on Mergers & Acquisitions
42:30 - MBA and the creation of Sobreiro Capital
01:07:00 - Venture Capital, Private Equity, and Search Funds
01:19:15 - Leadership and management
01:27:25 - Final message

Hosted by Paulo Lourosa, Managing Partner, Crowe Advisory PT.

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