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The Q3 2025 M&A Outlook — and What It Really Means for MSP Owners Feeling Stuck

The Q3 2025 DealStream survey tells us the “Main Street” M&A market is alive and active. Valuations are stable to down, deals are increasing, and buyers have leverage.

That’s the headline.
But here’s the truth for MSP owners: this isn’t just about numbers. It’s about the daily grind.

Over the years, we’ve spoken with hundreds of MSPs across the U.S. The story is remarkably consistent:

You’re too small to hire the extra help you need to grow.
You’re not small enough to step away without everything grinding to a halt.
The result? A constant, quiet burnout that comes from being trapped in the middle.
This is where the M&A market matters. It’s not just about buying or selling—it’s about creating options.

If you’re burnt out and want to exit: Now is a favorable moment to package your MSP for a buyer. Buyers are looking for recurring revenue, sticky clients, and clean operations.

If you want to grow but feel stuck: Acquiring a peer firm might be the leapfrog you need. With valuations stable or down, deals are more approachable.

If you just want breathing room: Positioning your business now—better systems, stronger margins—will give you flexibility when the right opportunity comes along.

👉 At Praesto Network, we’ve been in your shoes. We’ve built MSPs, lived the sleepless nights, and know what it means to push through burnout. That’s why we exist: to help MSPs find their next step, whether that’s growth, exit, or just space to breathe.

Final thought: The M&A data says opportunity. But for MSPs, it’s more than that—it’s a path out of being stuck in the middle.