Private equity firms in North Carolina play a pivotal role in financing and nurturing businesses across various sectors. These firms typically invest in different stages of company growth, from startups to established enterprises. Their focus often lies on enhancing operational efficiency and fostering innovation in industries like technology, healthcare, real estate, and consumer services. With a growing interest in sustainable and impact investing, these firms are increasingly prioritizing companies that demonstrate environmental responsibility. The industry's evolution is driven by changing market dynamics, leading to a formidable presence of investment firms in the state.

The listed companies in North Carolina's private equity sector range from small teams to established firms, generally housing between 10 to 200 employees. Most operate from Charlotte and Raleigh, with founding dates spanning several decades up to 2020. Specializations include healthcare, technology, and consumer services, showcasing a robust focus on growth sectors. Firms like Ridgemont Equity Partners and Cherokee Investment Partners illustrate the breadth of expertise and investment strategies available within this vibrant market, reflecting evolving trends and opportunities.

Continue reading to discover the top private equity firms in North Carolina.

Top 20 Private Equity Firms Companies in North Carolina

1. Ridgemont Equity Partners

• Website: ridgemontep.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), October 2021
• Founded year: 1993
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: ridgemont-equity-partners

Ridgemont Equity Partners, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a private equity firm founded in 1993. The firm specializes in investment management, focusing on sectors like technology, healthcare, and industrial services. Ridgemont partners with management teams to drive growth and improve operational efficiency. Their investment strategy is characterized by a commitment to transparent communication and collaboration, which helps unlock long-term value in their portfolio companies. Ridgemont has a track record of supporting companies through strategic guidance and capital, enabling them to enhance their market presence. The firm has been recognized for its workplace culture and has made notable investments in various companies, demonstrating its active role in the private equity industry.

2. Kian Capital Partners

• Website: kiancapital.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: kian-capital-partners-llc

Kian Capital Partners, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a private equity firm established in 2011. The firm specializes in providing investment management and capital solutions tailored for lower-middle-market businesses. Kian Capital focuses on sectors such as consumer services, specialty manufacturing, and value-added distribution. With a team that boasts over 100 years of collective experience, they offer not just capital but also operational guidance to help their portfolio companies achieve sustainable growth. Kian Capital manages approximately $1 billion in assets and has made 13 current investments, along with 25 realizations and 47 add-on acquisitions. Their commitment to fostering genuine partnerships is evident in their collaborative approach, which emphasizes shared success and open communication with management teams. Kian Capital has been recognized for its founder-friendly investment strategy, reflecting its dedication to supporting entrepreneurs in their growth journeys.

3. Broadtree Partners, LLC

• Website: broadtreepartners.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: broadtreepartners

Broadtree Partners, LLC is a private equity firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina, established in 2016. The firm specializes in investing in micro-cap and lower middle market companies, focusing on creating sustainable growth through tailored investment strategies and operational support. Broadtree Partners aims to partner with business owners who are either transitioning from their roles or looking to expand their companies. Their unique operator-centric model allows them to invest not just capital but also time and expertise into their portfolio companies. With a portfolio that spans various industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and technology, Broadtree has worked with over 25 companies to date, emphasizing their commitment to fostering long-term success while preserving the core values of the businesses they acquire.

4. Hatteras Investment Partners

• Website: hatterasinvestmentpartners.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Raleigh, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: hatteras-funds

Hatteras Investment Partners, founded in 2003 and based in Raleigh, North Carolina, is an investment management firm that specializes in private equity and alternative investment funds. The firm offers a range of products, including the Core Alternatives Fund and the Evergreen Private Equity Fund, designed to help clients achieve their investment objectives. Hatteras serves a clientele that includes individual investors and financial professionals, providing tailored investment solutions. The firm operates primarily within the financial services sector, focusing on private equity investments that often involve higher risks and potential rewards. Their approach emphasizes a partnership with clients, aiming to align investment strategies with individual goals. Hatteras Investment Partners has established itself as a player in the private equity market, despite not being among the largest firms in the industry.

5. Cherokee Investment Partners

• Website: cherokeefund.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Raleigh, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: cherokee-investment-partners

Cherokee Investment Partners, based in Raleigh, North Carolina, is an investment management firm that specializes in private equity and environmental investments. Founded in 1996, the firm has raised and managed over $2.2 billion through five institutional private equity funds. Cherokee focuses on the acquisition, cleanup, and redevelopment of contaminated real estate assets, primarily serving institutional investors and businesses that prioritize sustainability. The firm has successfully invested in approximately 550 environmentally contaminated properties across the United States, Europe, and Canada. Cherokee's approach not only aims to generate financial returns but also emphasizes environmental responsibility, playing a crucial role in revitalizing properties and promoting sustainable practices in real estate. The leadership team, including founder Tom Darden and managing principal John Mazzarino, brings a wealth of experience from various sectors, enhancing the firm's strategic direction and operational execution.

6. Summit Park

• Website: summitparkllc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: summit-park-llc

Summit Park LLC is a private equity firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina, established in 2006. The firm specializes in investments within the lower middle market, focusing on companies with revenues between $20 million and $150 million or EBITDA between $4 million and $15 million. Summit Park partners with business owners and management teams, providing not just capital but also strategic guidance to foster growth. Their investment focus spans several industries, including services, consumer goods, and industrial sectors. Summit Park has been active in the market, leading recapitalizations and acquisitions, and has been recognized as a top firm in the middle market. Their approach emphasizes collaboration and maintaining the unique culture of the companies they invest in, which is crucial for successful transitions and growth.

7. Banbury Private Capital

• Website: banburyprivatecapital.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Pre-seed, $220,000, June 2013
• Founded year: 2020
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: banbury-private-capital

Banbury Private Capital is a private equity firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina, specializing in investments within the aerospace, defense, and industrial growth sectors. Founded in 2020, the firm aims to create long-term value for entrepreneurs and investors by partnering with unique companies and principled management teams. Banbury focuses on middle-market businesses, often providing first-time institutional capital to help these companies enhance their operations and achieve growth. Their investment strategy includes making majority and strategic minority investments, allowing them to support management teams effectively. The firm has a strong emphasis on leveraging its industry expertise and relationships to drive value creation. Banbury's portfolio includes companies like Turbine Engine Specialists and Dynamic NC, showcasing their commitment to the aerospace and defense industries. They manage capital on behalf of a select group of global investors, including financial institutions and family offices.

8. South Street Partners

• Website: southstreetpartners.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: south-street-partners

South Street Partners is a private equity real estate investment firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina, and Charleston, South Carolina. Founded in 2009, the firm has built a robust portfolio with over $2 billion in assets under management. South Street focuses on the acquisition, development, and management of institutional-quality real estate assets, primarily in the Southeastern United States. They cater to a range of investors, including institutional partners, family offices, and individual investors. The firm has a strong operational orientation, leveraging its in-house expertise to enhance property value and navigate complex investment landscapes. Their portfolio includes notable projects such as Kiawah Partners, The Cliffs, and Palmetto Bluff, showcasing their commitment to high-quality developments. South Street Partners raised over $225 million for its inaugural fund, SSP GP Fund I, in 2022, which further solidifies their position in the private equity space.

9. Tailwind Investment Partners

• Website: tailwindinvestmentpartners.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Raleigh, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: hatteras-funds

Tailwind Investment Partners, operating under the name Hatteras Investment Partners, is an investment management firm based in Raleigh, North Carolina. Founded in 2003, the firm specializes in alternative investments and private equity. They manage several funds, including the Core Alternatives Fund and the Evergreen Private Equity Fund, which are designed to meet the needs of businesses and organizations seeking to enhance their investment strategies. Tailwind focuses on providing customized investment solutions to help clients achieve their financial goals. Their approach includes targeting lower middle market buyouts, indicating a strategic focus on smaller, potentially high-growth companies. The firm has a team of around 20 employees, reflecting a boutique investment model that emphasizes personalized service and expertise in the private equity sector.

10. Reynolda Equity Partners

• Website: reynoldaequity.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Winston-Salem, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1997
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: reynolda-equity-partners

Reynolda Equity Partners, founded in 1997 and based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is a private equity firm that specializes in investment advisory services. The firm primarily targets lower-middle-market businesses, focusing on sectors such as healthcare, commercial and industrial solutions, and business services. With a team of 24 professionals, Reynolda has raised over $700 million across its equity funds and completed nearly 50 platform investments. Their investment strategy is centered on partnering with management teams to provide strategic, operational, and financial guidance, helping businesses navigate growth opportunities. Reynolda's commitment to community engagement and responsible investment practices further underscores their role in the industry, as they actively participate in initiatives that support local communities and promote environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles.

11. Pamlico Capital

• Website: pamlicocapital.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: pamlico-capital

Pamlico Capital is a private equity firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina, founded in 1988. With a focus on growth equity and buyout investments, Pamlico specializes in the middle market, targeting companies with annual revenues between $10 million and $150 million. The firm operates primarily in sectors such as healthcare IT, software, communications, information services, and tech-enabled services. Over its 35-year history, Pamlico has developed a strong network of industry executives and advisors, which plays a crucial role in their investment strategy. They have successfully completed over 135 platform investments and facilitated more than 220 add-on acquisitions, showcasing their active engagement in the market. Pamlico Capital manages approximately $3.5 billion in assets, reflecting their significant presence in the private equity space. Their approach emphasizes collaboration with management teams, aiming to drive growth and operational improvements while maintaining a focus on value creation.

12. Carousel Capital

• Website: carouselcapital.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: carousel-capital

Carousel Capital, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a family-owned private equity firm founded in 1996. The firm specializes in investing in business services, consumer services, and healthcare services. Carousel Capital partners with management teams to provide not just capital but also strategic support, helping businesses achieve growth and operational success. With a focus on the Southeastern United States, Carousel Capital leverages its extensive experience and network to foster successful partnerships. Since 2006, the firm has managed over $2 billion in private equity commitments across multiple funds, with a strong emphasis on first-time institutional equity capital. Their investment strategy has led to impressive average revenue and EBITDA growth in their portfolio companies, showcasing their effectiveness in the private equity space.

13. Morgan Creek Capital Management, LLC

• Website: morgancreekcap.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 84%, China 16%
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: morgan-creek-capital-management

Morgan Creek Capital Management, LLC, founded in 2004 and based in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, is an investment management firm that provides tailored investment solutions and advisory services to institutions and high-net-worth individuals. The firm has carved out a niche in alternative investments, focusing on private equity, venture capital, and hedge funds. With a team that boasts extensive experience in the investment industry, Morgan Creek emphasizes asset allocation, manager selection, and portfolio construction. Their investment strategies are informed by a deep understanding of market dynamics and a commitment to risk management. The firm operates globally, with a significant presence in Asia, particularly in private equity investments, where they engage with entrepreneurs and venture capitalists to capitalize on growth opportunities. Morgan Creek's approach is characterized by a consultative model, ensuring that each client's unique investment goals are met through customized strategies.

14. HDG Inc.

• Website: hdg.ca
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Wilson, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: hdg-inc-

HDG Inc., founded in 2001 and based in Wilson, North Carolina, is a family-owned investment firm that focuses on private placements, real estate investments, and recreational tourism development. The firm partners with private businesses and real estate developers, providing not just capital but also strategic support to help these entities grow and optimize their operations. One of their notable projects is the Massif de Charlevoix, a four-season recreational destination that showcases their commitment to tourism and community development. HDG Inc. emphasizes long-term partnerships and aims to create wealth while contributing to the development of exceptional companies. Their approach includes a focus on socially responsible investments, which reflects their commitment to community engagement and sustainable practices.

15. Plexus Capital, LLC

• Website: plexuscap.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Raleigh, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: plexus-capital-llc

Plexus Capital, LLC, based in Raleigh, North Carolina, is an investment firm founded in 2005. The company specializes in providing capital to lower middle market businesses, focusing on facilitating growth and change of control transactions through customized financial solutions. Plexus Capital has raised approximately $2.22 billion and has funded 189 companies across various sectors, including industrials and healthcare. Their approach emphasizes building strong partnerships with their portfolio companies, offering not just capital but also strategic support to drive growth and operational excellence. The firm is family-owned and operates with a team that has decades of experience in the industry, reflecting a commitment to long-term relationships and value creation. Plexus Capital's portfolio includes companies like Guardian Logistics Solutions and SurgeryStuff, showcasing their active involvement in sectors that are essential to the economy.

16. Fidus Partners

• Website: fiduspartners.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: fidus-partners

Fidus Partners, founded in 2005 and based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is an investment bank that specializes in financial advisory services tailored for middle market companies. With a team of experienced professionals, Fidus Partners offers a range of services including mergers and acquisitions, debt advisory, and capital raising. They cater to a variety of clients, including private equity firms, public corporations, and family-owned businesses. The firm prides itself on its hands-on approach, ensuring that senior professionals are involved in every engagement. Fidus Partners has completed over 400 advisory assignments, managing an aggregate transaction volume exceeding $30 billion across various industries such as healthcare, technology, and consumer goods. Their focus on the middle market allows them to provide customized solutions that address the unique challenges faced by their clients.

17. White Oak Partners LLC

• Website: whiteoakpartnersllc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Durham, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: whiteoakpartnersllc

White Oak Partners LLC, founded in 2005 and based in Durham, North Carolina, is a private mergers and acquisitions firm that specializes in buyside acquisition searches. The firm operates primarily in the lower end of the middle market, targeting companies with annual sales exceeding $5 million. White Oak Partners has a generalist strategy, seeking unique acquisition opportunities across various industries, including manufacturing, technology, and consumer products. Their team has a strong history, with managing directors having sourced over 100 transactions valued at more than $1.5 billion. The firm prides itself on its proactive sourcing process and maintains confidentiality and professionalism in its dealings with business owners. They have established a solid reputation among private equity groups and corporate buyers, evidenced by numerous testimonials highlighting their effectiveness in generating deal flow and facilitating successful transactions.

18. HCG Fund Management

• Website: hcgfunds.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Raleigh, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 85%, Switzerland 15%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: hcg-funds

HCG Fund Management, founded in 2009 and based in Raleigh, North Carolina, is an investment management firm that specializes in private credit and fintech solutions. The firm offers a range of services, including private credit, private loan programs, and venture capital investments, primarily targeting institutional investors and capital allocators. HCG has invested over $5.5 billion in private fintech assets and has evaluated more than 500 fintech companies, showcasing their commitment to identifying and capitalizing on emerging opportunities in the financial technology sector. Their team, consisting of around 20 professionals, collaborates across multiple continents, emphasizing a multi-disciplinary approach to investment management. HCG's proprietary technology platform processes and stores over 100 billion data points, enhancing their ability to make informed investment decisions. The firm aims to navigate the evolving financial landscape through tailored investment strategies that reflect their principles of trust, innovation, and capital.

19. Capitala Group

• Website: capitalagroup.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: October 2019
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: capitala-investment-advisors

Capitala Group is an asset management firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina, specializing in private credit and private equity capital for lower- and middle-market businesses. Founded in 1998, the firm has invested over $2.2 billion into small businesses across North America. Capitala Group operates with a flexible capital mandate, providing creative financing solutions tailored to the unique needs of each business. They have raised 11 funds, including five Small Business Investment Company (SBIC) funds, and have completed 183 investments in 33 states. The firm is dedicated to partnering with strong management teams to foster growth and create value through strategic partnerships and operational expertise. Notably, Capitala has also made significant strides in social impact investing, deploying over $1.3 billion into designated impact investments, which focus on minority, veteran, and women-owned businesses, as well as those in low- to moderate-income areas. This commitment to social responsibility is a core aspect of their investment strategy.

20. Falfurrias Management Partners

• Website: falfurrias.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: falfurrias-capital-partners

Falfurrias Management Partners is an investment management firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina, specializing in private equity and growth capital investments. Founded in 2006 by Hugh McColl, Marc Oken, and Ed McMahan, the firm targets family-owned and entrepreneur-owned businesses, providing not just capital but also operational expertise to help these companies scale effectively. Falfurrias operates through two distinct funds: Falfurrias Capital Partners, which focuses on majority and controlling investments, and Falfurrias Growth Partners, which targets emerging growth software and business services companies. The firm has raised a total of $2.25 billion across its six funds, demonstrating its capability in managing substantial investments. Falfurrias is known for its 'Industry First' approach, which relies on thorough market research and partnerships with experienced management teams to drive value creation. This operationally focused strategy has allowed Falfurrias to build a portfolio of successful businesses across various sectors.

Private Equity Firms Insights: Key Companies in North Carolina

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