Qualifications

Marla DiCarlo is an SMB Managing Director at SDR Ventures, where she serves as an investment banker to small business owners—guiding clients through sell-side M&A, value positioning, deal execution, and successful transitions. With more than 30 years of experience across accounting, finance, and leadership advisory, Marla brings a rare combination of technical depth and founder-level perspective to every engagement. Marla is the co-owner of BizNavigators, a business advisory firm, and the co-founder of Deal Pilot, a platform built to help advisors and business owners successfully sell their businesses. She is also the co-founder and former CEO and co-owner of Raincatcher, which was recognized by Inc. Magazine as the #1 Business Broker, a Best Workplace in 2020, and ranked #376 on the Inc. 5000 list in 2021. Marla’s work is grounded in helping entrepreneurs increase enterprise value and navigate complex transactions with clarity and confidence.

Experience

Marla’s career spans fractional CFO leadership, accounting, financing, and M&A advisory across a wide range of industries. From 2000 to 2008, she served as Director of Accounting for an M&A and investment group specializing in acquiring, capitalizing, and managing real estate and operating businesses, where she supported new business deals, investments, and financing. Throughout her career, Marla has worked with and supported groups such as Credit Suisse First Boston, ISS Group, Venture West Group, and Madison Dearborn Partners. In 2009, Marla founded a fractional CFO, accounting, and bookkeeping firm that was later acquired by a private equity group in 2016. She continues to be an active leader in the small business community, supporting entrepreneurs through education, advisory services, and strategic transaction planning.

Education

Marla holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and is a member of multiple professional organizations.

Interests

Marla is passionate about helping small business owners build long-term value and achieve successful exits through strong financial strategy, disciplined execution, and trusted advisory support. She serves on the board of Dress for Success Denver and is committed to advancing economic empowerment within her community. Outside of work, Marla enjoys spending time with her family and doing anything outdoors.