You’re in a strong negotiating position, so use it.
You want to maintain control of the company and continue rapid expansion. They want to pay a reasonable multiple on the 40k EBITDA in relatively less scalable business.
I would see if your friends are willing to sell just their 16% stake to the company for 40k. Your friends get a nice buyout, you get the business referrals from the large company, and the large company gets a minority stake in your growth at a reasonable price, with the option to come back to the table for more later.
I have no authority to speak on this, these are just my opinions.
You’re in a strong negotiating position, so use it.
You want to maintain control of the company and continue rapid expansion. They want to pay a reasonable multiple on the 40k EBITDA in relatively less scalable business.
I would see if your friends are willing to sell just their 16% stake to the company for 40k. Your friends get a nice buyout, you get the business referrals from the large company, and the large company gets a minority stake in your growth at a reasonable price, with the option to come back to the table for more later.
I have no authority to speak on this, these are just my opinions.