Manuel Santana
Business Advisor, MBA, CBI
612-431-1455
763-218-1709
msantana@sunbeltmidwest.com
1300 Godward St. NE, Suite 6000, Minneapolis, MN 55413
About
As a seasoned Business Broker and Transaction Advisor, Manuel’s passion lies in guiding his clients toward achieving their objectives with the highest possible returns. Drawing from his extensive experience in business advisory, entrepreneurship, and diverse industries, he has a keen eye for identifying the unique elements that make each enterprise attractive to qualified buyers.
Manuel brings a wealth of expertise and a multifaceted background as a founder, owner/operator, chief executive, advisor, and investor in the consumer goods, business services, manufacturing, technology, and hospitality sectors. His tenure as an internal consultant in business strategy and M&A projects has honed his skills in confidentially marketing businesses and vetting interested buyers.
Manuel’s deep understanding of the nuances involved in ownership transfers stems from his recognition that every business owner has distinct needs and expectations. For those considering a sale, whether immediately or soon, Sunbelt offers a complimentary, confidential Value Range assessment, empowering clients to be better prepared when the time to sell arises.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Manuel finds comfort in cycling around town, fueling his passion for eventual long bike expeditions – a testament to his well-rounded approach to life and business.
Awards and Credentials
- President’s Club Award, 2021, 2022
- Torch Award, 2022
- 5-Star Award, 2023
- IBBA Outstanding Producer Award, 2023
- IBBA Platinum Chairman’s Circle Award, 2024
- IBBA Deal Maker Award, 2024
- M&A Source Executive Club, 2024
- Certified Business Intermediary (CBI) by IBBA
- Business Certified Appraiser (BCA) by ISBA
- Business Certified Appraiser In Review (BCA-R) by ISBA
- Certified Professional Project Manager, CPPM by the University of St. Thomas
- Master of Business Administration, MBA from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
- Master of Science in Engineering, Applied Statistics, MSE from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
- President, AESTIMATIO – Business Valuations
Areas of Expertise
Digital Businesses
It doesn’t hurt to be a geek sometimes. Manuel’s passion for technology has enabled numerous clients, including e-commerce companies, SaaS providers, and other digital service providers, to exit their businesses successfully. ROAS, ARR, NAU, Churn rate, ACC? Yes, we speak your language and understand your data.
Business Valuations
With his strong analytical capabilities and practical transactional experience, Manuel provides valuation engagements as part of his appraisal practice. These range from Broker-Price Opinions to Certified Business Appraisals, and he is even credentialed to review valuations from third parties based on the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP).
Franchised Businesses
With multiple transactions in business services, transportation, fast-casual restaurants, packaging, and shipping businesses, Manuel has developed processes that ensure potential buyers are qualified by the franchisor and other parties, resulting in efficient and timely closings.
Cleaning & Janitorial Services
From residential to commercial and specialty services (window cleaning, restoration, construction), Manuel highlights the key value drivers of recurrent revenue, customer concentration, and efficient operation through technology and staffing.
Association Memberships
Blog Posts
What It’s Like to Work Together
Authentic perspectives from business owners I’ve helped successfully reach their goals.
In Their Words
Our clients trust Sunbelt Business Advisors to protect their legacy, navigate every detail, and secure the outcome their life’s work deserves. Their stories reflect the honesty, care, and expertise we bring to every engagement.
Joe Jelinek
AEC - Roofing & Exterior Construction
Mitchell Mulert
Landscaping
Dan Sundin
Technology/IT
Maximize Your Life’s Work
Your business is more than an asset–it’s your heart, your team, and your impact. Partner with Sunbelt Business Advisors to navigate your exit while honoring everything you’ve built or to buy a business and continue building your legacy.
