Exit Strategies for SaaS Company Founders

Hampton’s 2024 State of SaaS report gives us a peek inside founder brains. Turns out, they’re not just chasing unicorn exits — they’re chasing the right kind of exit.

Marketing Analysis

Most founders aim to sell between 8x–10x multiples, with strategic buyers being the most likely exit route. The chart also shows an emotional side: “When it’s not fun” was a real reason to sell. That’s not data — that’s identity-driven decision making.

Why It Works

• Uses clean, easy-to-read visuals to convey complex data fast
• Mixes numbers with real human quotes for authenticity
• Highlights motivations and expectations founders actually have
• Shows benchmarks that appeal to ambition, not vanity

Examples

• Figma selling to Adobe for ~$20B (huge multiple, strategic acquirer)
• HubSpot’s steady growth rather than a flashy exit — proof founders pick purpose, not pressure
• Mailchimp’s $12B sale to Intuit: pure strategic synergy