Private Equity / Search Fund Intern – Trident Equity Group
Trident Equity Group is a search fund founded by two Kellogg School of Management graduates with a mission to acquire and operate one great small business. Through the model of Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA), we partner with owners who are ready to transition, preserve the legacy of their companies, and build on their success for the long term.
Our target sectors include Quick Service Restaurants, Data Centers, Financial Services, Insurance, and Preauthorization Services.
This is a highly selective opportunity for exceptional candidates who can hit the ground running. We're looking for sharp, analytical individuals who thrive with minimal supervision and can contribute meaningfully from day one.
Program Details
- Duration: 10-week sprints with option to continue based on mutual interest
- Format: 100% remote (with optional collaboration opportunities in Chicago)
- Time Commitment: 15-20 hours per week
- Compensation: Unpaid internship with exceptional learning opportunities
Responsibilities
- Conduct industry and company research to identify acquisition opportunities
- Reach out to business brokers and manage communication sequencing
- Build and run lead email campaigns using HubSpot, Reply.io, and MailToaster
- Use prospecting tools like Clay, Grata, and ZoomInfo to source companies and enrich data
- Manage and track contacts/leads within HubSpot CRM
- Explore automation through Zapier and learn how AI agents support workflow efficiency
- Assist in planning and executing multi-channel marketing and outreach campaigns
- Support pipeline tracking, reporting, and analysis
What We're Looking For (Only Apply If You Have These)
- High intellectual horsepower with strong problem-solving abilities
- Demonstrated excellence in previous roles, projects, or academic performance
- Experience working independently with minimal supervision
- Strong analytical skills and ability to learn new tools/systems quickly
- Excellent written communication skills and comfort with professional outreach
- Self-starter mentality - you see what needs to be done and do it
- Technical aptitude or experience with data, automation, or business tools
Requirements (Please Don't Apply Unless You Meet All)
- Current student (junior/senior preferred) OR recent graduate with relevant experience
- Any academic background welcome - we value raw talent and analytical thinking over specific majors
- Proven track record of excellence (strong GPA, leadership roles, internships, projects, technical skills, etc.)
- Experience with tools like Excel, databases, programming, CRMs, or similar technical platforms strongly preferred
- Commitment of 15-20 hours per week with complete reliability
- Must be a fast learner who can contribute value quickly with minimal training
- Interest in private equity, entrepreneurship, or business acquisitions
Why Join Us? This is a rare opportunity to work directly with experienced Kellogg graduates on real deal flow in the search fund space. You'll gain insider knowledge of the acquisition process, develop advanced skills in sourcing and deal evaluation, and build experience that translates across private equity, consulting, and entrepreneurship. This role is designed for high-performers who want to fast-track their learning - perfect for sharp individuals looking to break into finance or business.
To Apply: Submit your resume and cover letter highlighting your strongest accomplishments and explaining why you're interested in search funds/private equity. Show us your analytical thinking and communication skills.
Note: We welcome candidates from all academic backgrounds who demonstrate exceptional ability and drive.