Columbia Advisory Group (“CAG”) is a managed services provider that specializes in cybersecurity, governance, risk, compliance, and technology services, primarily serving clients in the higher education, state and local government, and mid-market enterprise sectors from its base in Dallas, TX. CAG was recently acquired by Complete, backed by Heritage Holding, following a competitive M&A process managed by Solganick. This strategic acquisition integrates CAG’s deep expertise in cybersecurity consulting, including security assessments, penetration testing, incident response, and compliance (e.g., CMMC, NIST, HIPAA), with Complete Network’s existing managed IT offerings, creating a comprehensive IT and cybersecurity partner with expanded service portfolios and enhanced talent.

Situation: The shareholders of CAG hired Solganick to help them evaluate potential M&A opportunities and run a competitive process on their behalf to find the best possible partner.

Solution: Solganick ran a competitive M&A process that targeted PE backed strategic buyers and received multiple offers for the company.

Outcome: CAG selected Complete, backed by Heritage Holding, as the best fit from a strategic combination, to the best deal structure outcome that was favorable to the selling shareholders. Terms of the deal were undisclosed.

This acquisition significantly enhances Complete Network’s capabilities, offering clients a more comprehensive suite of services that integrates robust cybersecurity solutions with their existing managed IT offerings. The acquisition was backed by Heritage Holding, a Boston-based private equity firm known for its investments in growth-oriented technology companies. This union creates a powerhouse in the IT and cybersecurity landscape, poised to address the evolving needs of businesses grappling with increasingly sophisticated cyber threats and complex regulatory environments.

Key Highlights of the Acquisition:

• Expanded Service Portfolio:
  • Complete Network’s managed IT services will now be seamlessly integrated with CAG’s deep expertise in cybersecurity consulting, including security assessments, penetration testing, incident response, and compliance (e.g., CMMC, NIST, HIPAA).
  • CAG’s industry focus on higher education and state and local government agencies adds additional layers of industry-specific expertise that Complete Networks clients can benefit from.
  • Clients will benefit from a single point of contact for their IT infrastructure and critical cybersecurity needs, streamlining operations and enhancing overall security posture.
• Enhanced Expertise and Talent:
  • The acquisition brings together a team of highly skilled professionals, combining Complete Network’s operational excellence with CAG’s specialized cybersecurity and GRC knowledge.
  • This collective expertise will allow for the development and delivery of cutting-edge solutions tailored to diverse industry requirements.
• Strategic Growth and Market Position:
  • This move significantly strengthens Complete Network’s position as a holistic IT and cybersecurity partner, expanding its market reach and competitive advantage.
  • The combined entity is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for integrated IT and cybersecurity services across various sectors.