IOI
An indication of interest — an earlier, often less detailed expression of price range and fit than a letter of intent.
Last updated September 5, 2026
An IOI (indication of interest) tells a seller or broker that a buyer is serious enough to name a valuation range and basic structure before full access to the CIM or data room. It is typically non-binding and less specific than an LOI. Intermediaries use IOIs to compare buyers and decide who receives deeper information. On Main Street, many deals skip a formal IOI and go straight from NDA to LOI.