NIC Acquisition: Key Details, Impact, and What Comes Next

Tyler Technologies' acquisition of NIC Inc. marks a significant milestone in the public sector technology landscape. This $2.3 billion all-cash transaction combines Tyler's local government expertise with NIC's state government solutions, enhancing their ability to provide comprehensive digital services across all government levels. The merger is poised to address the growing demand for innovative platform solutions, benefiting citizens and public sector stakeholders alike.

What Is NIC?

Founded in 1992, NIC Inc. specializes in providing digital government services and payment processing solutions. Its core products include eGovernment portals, payment processing, and secure data exchange services. NIC stands out in the market with its unique public-private partnership model, which allows it to offer innovative solutions without upfront costs to government agencies. This approach has enabled NIC to streamline government operations and enhance citizen engagement effectively.

Who Acquired NIC?

Tyler Technologies is a prominent provider of software and services tailored for the public sector. The company offers a wide range of solutions, including appraisal and tax management, civic services, corrections, courts and justice, cybersecurity, and ERP systems. Tyler Technologies serves diverse clients, from small rural counties to large metropolitan cities, enhancing transparency, efficiency, and accessibility in public administration. Their extensive product offerings and specialized services position them as a leader in the public sector technology market.

When Was NIC Acquired?

Tyler Technologies completed its acquisition of NIC Inc. on April 21, 2021. This strategic move occurred during a period of heightened demand for digital government solutions, driven by the COVID-19 pandemic. The acquisition aligns with industry trends towards digital transformation and increased online services in the public sector, allowing Tyler Technologies to expand its capabilities and address the growing need for efficient and accessible government technology solutions.

Why Was NIC Acquired?

• Market Expansion: The acquisition of NIC Inc. significantly broadens Tyler Technologies' market reach. NIC serves over 7,100 federal, state, and local government agencies, which will now be part of Tyler's client base. This expansion allows Tyler to address the demand for innovative platform solutions at various government levels.
• Technology Integration: Integrating NIC's digital government solutions and payment services with Tyler's existing offerings enhances the delivery of essential products and services to public sector stakeholders. NIC’s expertise in digital services, such as applying for unemployment insurance and renewing licenses, complements Tyler’s end-to-end solutions, making government operations more efficient and accessible.
• Competitive Advantage: The combined strengths of Tyler and NIC provide a competitive edge by offering a comprehensive suite of technology solutions to government entities. NIC’s extensive expertise in government payments, processing over $24 billion in payments in 2020, accelerates Tyler’s strategic payments initiatives. This merger positions the company to better compete in the state government market, enhancing its overall market presence.

Acquisition Terms

• Acquisition Price: $2.3 billion
• Payment Method: All-cash transaction
• Key Conditions or Agreements:
  • NIC stockholders will receive $34.00 per share in cash.
  • The transaction has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both companies.
  • The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals and approval by NIC’s stockholders.
  • Tyler plans to fund the transaction with approximately $700 million of cash on hand and new debt, including a $1.6 billion bridge facility from Goldman Sachs Bank USA.
  • The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2021.
  • NIC will continue to manage its operations from its home office in Kansas and retain its employees and leadership team.

Impact on NIC

The acquisition of NIC by Tyler Technologies has led to notable changes in operations and management. NIC's CEO, Harry Herington, retired, but the rest of the leadership team remains in place, continuing to manage operations from the Olathe, Kansas office. Tyler has initiated an integration plan to merge the operations of both companies, aiming to leverage NIC's expertise in digital government solutions and payments to enhance Tyler's offerings. This strategic move is expected to streamline operations and foster growth, particularly in the state and federal sectors.

In terms of product offerings and services, the acquisition has significantly expanded Tyler's capabilities. NIC's proficiency in government payments, which processed over $24 billion in 2020, complements Tyler's existing solutions, enabling the combined company to offer more comprehensive digital services. Employee reactions have been generally positive, with NIC's team expected to benefit from new career opportunities within Tyler. Customer reactions have also been favorable, as the merger promises more efficient and accessible technology solutions for government agencies. For founders considering business transitions, tools like Sunset can assist in managing such processes compliantly and efficiently.