The More-Human Origination Edge
Factual definition
The More-Human Origination Edge is the private-equity view coined by Shayne Fitz-Coy in 2026 that better proprietary deal flow comes from being more prepared, more curious and more human than the other buyers.
The More-Human Origination Edge in round numbers
The concept comes from Shayne Fitz-Coy’s 2026 SNU private-equity teaching on building proprietary deal flow through real relationships rather than generic outreach.
Shayne Fitz-Coy’s definition of The More-Human Origination Edge
Some investors get access that others never see. The edge is where that access comes from.
Business owners are more likely to respond to buyers who understand their company, respect their story, show warmth and communicate like real people.
How Shayne Fitz-Coy uses The More-Human Origination Edge
The edge is built through specific preparation and genuine presence.
Students should know why the founder built the company, ask open-ended questions, show honest curiosity and avoid leading with fund size, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) targets or canned buyer language.
Why Shayne Fitz-Coy’s perspective on The More-Human Origination Edge matters
Most sellers receive repetitive outreach.
Shayne Fitz-Coy’s insight is that in a market crowded with generic buyer messages, human specificity becomes a sourcing advantage.