Cetane celebrates 20 years in business

March 25, 2026 By Mason Kopy 0 Comments

Cetane Associates is marking its 20th anniversary in March 2026, highlighting two decades as a client-focused mergers and acquisitions (M&A) advisory firm.

Since its founding in 2006, the firm has advised hundreds of business owners through ownership transitions, helping them maximize the value of their companies.

Cetane is considered a top M&A advisory firm in the U.S. home services sector. Founder Steve Abbate established the firm with the goal of supporting business owners through what is often the most significant financial event of their lives.

Barrett Conway (left) and Steve Abbate (right). (Photo by Maggie Brill) — Barrett Conway (left) and Steve Abbate. (Photo by Maggie Brill)

“Cetane was founded on the principles of helping owners find the right company to transition their business to,” Abbate says. “It has never been just about the money; it’s about the right fit for the owners, for the employees and for the customers.”

Abbate says the firm has grown from its beginnings in his Maryland basement to a national presence, with offices in Houston and Denver and employees across the country.

“As I neared retirement age, I transitioned my business to Barrett Conway, who I knew would take it to the next level,” Abbate says. “I have remained with the company as an adviser and have had the privilege of seeing the company expand nationally to over 25 employees.”

Conway joined Cetane in 2020 and acquired the firm in 2022, continuing its client-focused approach. Under his leadership, the company has expanded into additional service industries and added staff to support that growth.

“I’m incredibly proud to carry forward what Steve built over the past 20 years,” Conway says. “Cetane has always been about doing right by our clients, and that commitment remains at the core of everything we do.”

Conway says the firm aims to maintain its emphasis on trust and consistent results as it expands its services and reach.

Cetane supports industry associations, participates in conferences and contributes to trade publications and speaking engagements. The firm also supports Safe House Project, a nonprofit organization focused on combating human trafficking.