In a development that could reshape how mergers and acquisitions are executed, Eilla AI has completed Europe’s first M&A transaction led by an AI native advisory firm. The company advised on the acquisition of CreateX and Native Digital by White Pearl Technology Group, marking a significant shift in how dealmaking is approached in the region.
Redefining M&A Through AI
Founded in 2022, Eilla AI initially focused on building AI tools for the M&A industry. However, after engaging with more than a thousand advisory firms and private equity funds, the company identified two major gaps. The industry has been slow to adopt AI, and small and mid sized businesses remain underserved by traditional advisory models.
To address this, Eilla AI evolved into a full service advisory firm powered by its proprietary AI infrastructure, combining automation with human expertise to execute transactions more efficiently.
How AI Native Advisory Works
At the core of Eilla AI’s model is a hybrid approach where artificial intelligence handles data intensive tasks while experienced advisors oversee strategy and decision making. The firm follows a structured M&A process similar to top investment banks but optimised for speed and scale.
The process begins with identifying potential buyers using a proprietary database that includes detailed information on millions of companies. AI analyses past deals and strategic fit to generate a broad and highly relevant pool of acquirers.
It then automates the creation of key deal materials such as confidential information memorandums, reducing preparation time from several weeks to just a few days.
Expanding Buyer Reach at Scale
One of Eilla AI’s key advantages lies in its ability to reach a much larger universe of buyers compared to traditional advisors. Using a database of approximately nine million companies, the platform enables highly personalised outreach tailored to each potential acquirer.
This approach increases response rates and helps create competitive tension by engaging multiple interested buyers simultaneously. Instead of relying on a limited network of known contacts, the system identifies opportunities that might otherwise be overlooked.
In the recent transaction, the eventual buyer was identified through AI driven pattern matching rather than traditional relationships, demonstrating the platform’s ability to uncover non obvious matches.
Human Judgment Still Central
Despite its heavy reliance on AI, Eilla AI maintains a strong human element throughout the process. Experienced advisors review all outputs, refine messaging, and make final decisions in areas requiring judgment.
This ensures that while efficiency is improved, the quality and strategic depth of advisory services remain intact.
The company emphasises that its goal is not to replace advisors but to amplify their capabilities, enabling smaller teams to operate with the effectiveness of much larger organisations.
Addressing a Growing Market Need
The timing of Eilla AI’s model aligns with a broader structural challenge in Europe. Millions of business owners are expected to exit their companies over the next decade, creating a surge in demand for M&A advisory services.
Traditional firms often struggle to serve smaller deals due to high operational costs, leaving many businesses without access to quality advisory. Eilla AI’s model, which relies on automation for volume heavy tasks, allows it to operate on a success fee only basis, making it more accessible to this underserved segment.
Early Traction and Rapid Growth
Since launching its advisory practice, Eilla AI has already built a strong pipeline of deals. The company reports around 20 active mandates and significant growth in potential fees within a short period.
Its approach has also demonstrated improved engagement, with a higher proportion of companies progressing to buyer presentations and securing multiple non disclosure agreements.
A Broader Shift in Professional Services
Eilla AI reflects a wider trend where technology companies are moving beyond selling software to directly delivering services. By owning both the tools and the outcomes, these firms are redefining traditional industries such as finance, legal, and consulting.
As AI continues to evolve, this model could become increasingly common, particularly in sectors where efficiency and scalability are critical.
Building the Future of Dealmaking
With its first completed transaction, Eilla AI has moved beyond proof of concept to real world execution. The company now aims to scale its platform and expand its reach across the European M&A market.
By combining advanced AI with human expertise, Eilla AI is positioning itself to transform how deals are sourced, structured, and closed, potentially setting a new standard for investment banking in the digital age.
