Innovation Drives Growth
BDO’s 2026 Private Equity Survey reveals how private equity leaders investing in the technology industry are pairing acquisition-led growth with innovation, operational discipline and flexible exit strategies.
Based on responses from 182 PE firms that invest in technology, the spotlight examines the competitive pressures, talent and technology constraints and value creation priorities shaping capital deployment.
What Technology PE Leaders Should Know
Technology investors are under pressure to prove that innovation can translate into durable performance. The spotlight examines where firms are concentrating resources to create that distinction.
of technology investors identify implementing new technology, including AI and digital capabilities, as the value creation strategy likely to have the most impact this year.
Key Takeaways
Competition is shaping capital deployment
35% cite increased competition as their primary challenge to deploying capital.
Talent shortages are affecting deal execution
45% identify finding and retaining the right people as their primary limitation to executing deals at speed.
Acquisitions remain central to growth
Platform and add-on acquisitions remain central to technology investors’ growth plans.
Technology is supporting value creation
Investors are making AI and digital capabilities practical value creation priorities.
Sponsors are maintaining exit flexibility
Sponsors are evaluating several paths to liquidity.
2026 Private Equity Survey
Explore the full report and insights from all 400 respondents.
Methodology
This spotlight reflects responses from 182 PE firms that invest in technology. BDO’s 2026 Private Equity Survey polled 400 U.S. PE fund managers and operating partners in May 2026 to understand their strategies as well as the opportunities and challenges on the horizon for the next 12 months. The survey was conducted by Rabin Roberts Research.
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