Ohio's private equity firms are active participants in the business landscape, engaging in significant capital investments that drive growth and innovation. Predominantly, these companies provide funds and guidance to lower middle-market businesses across varied sectors, including healthcare, manufacturing, and technology. They deploy strategic resources to enhance profitability, operational efficiency, and market competitiveness, while many firms also engage in community-oriented initiatives. With the upcoming rise in technology and sustainability demand, private equity is poised to adopt adaptive investment strategies, ensuring that companies not only thrive but also align with contemporary market trends for long-term success.


The list highlights 21 private equity firms primarily based in Ohio, encompassing a blend of sizes and specializations. With team sizes ranging from a handful to about 1,000 employees, these firms have been founded between 1946 and 2018. They focus on enhancing operational performance, fostering growth capital, and managing investments securely. Firms like Resilience Capital and Blue Point Capital partner with a variety of businesses, illustrating Ohio's role as a significant player in the private equity sector.


Continue reading to discover Ohio's top private equity firms.


Top 21 Private Equity Firms Companies in Ohio


1. Resilience Capital Partners


Resilience Capital Partners, based in Cleveland, Ohio, is a private equity firm founded in 2001 by co-CEOs Steve Rosen and Bassem Mansour. The firm specializes in investment management and advisory services, focusing on operational improvements and strategic guidance for businesses across various sectors. Resilience Capital Partners targets companies with revenues between $25 million and $250 million, typically investing between $10 million and $75 million. Their investment philosophy is rooted in fostering long-term success rather than short-term gains, which is reflected in their structured approach to identifying operational enhancements and instilling a culture of resilience within their portfolio companies. The firm has raised and advised funds with aggregate capital commitments exceeding $675 million, drawing from a global investor base that includes pension funds, insurance companies, and foundations. Resilience Capital Partners also emphasizes community involvement, exemplified by their Pathway to Resilience program, which aims to provide at-risk youth with skills and training for meaningful employment. This commitment to both business growth and social responsibility highlights their multifaceted role in the private equity industry.


2. Rockwood Equity Partners

  • Website: rockwoodequity.com
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: rockwood-equity-partners

Rockwood Equity Partners is a private equity firm based in Cleveland, Ohio, founded in 1999. The firm specializes in investment management and consulting services for lower middle-market businesses, focusing on sectors such as aerospace, defense, environmental, and healthcare. With a team of experienced professionals, Rockwood aims to provide operational improvements and strategic partnerships to help companies navigate ownership transitions and achieve sustainable growth. They typically target B2B companies in North America with EBITDA ranging from $2 to $7 million. Rockwood's approach is characterized by a commitment to integrity, collaboration, and continuous learning, ensuring that they work closely with company leaders to foster long-term value. Their portfolio includes companies that have benefited from their operational expertise and industry insights, showcasing their ability to drive growth and enhance business performance.


3. Blue Point Capital Partners

  • Website: bluepointcapital.com
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 90%, China 10%
  • Founded year: 2000
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: blue-point-capital-partners

Blue Point Capital Partners is a private equity firm based in Cleveland, Ohio, founded in 2000. The firm specializes in investing in and growing lower middle-market companies across various sectors, including industrial, business services, and consumer markets. With a commitment of over $1.8 billion in capital, Blue Point partners with management teams to enhance operational capabilities and seize growth opportunities. Their approach combines financial investment with strategic operational support, leveraging expertise in data, digital solutions, and human capital. Blue Point has completed around 150 investments, with a total transaction value exceeding $9.5 billion, showcasing their active role in the private equity industry. Their portfolio includes companies in niche manufacturing, telecom services, and food and beverage manufacturing, among others, reflecting their broad engagement in the market.


4. Brixey & Meyer Capital


Brixey & Meyer Capital is a private investment firm based in Cincinnati, Ohio, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in private equity and investment management, focusing on lower middle market companies. With a commitment to raising capital, Brixey & Meyer Capital provides essential financial resources and strategic guidance to help businesses achieve growth. The firm has raised over $124 million across multiple funds and has made more than ten investments since its inception. Their portfolio includes companies in various sectors, such as healthcare, logistics, and manufacturing. Brixey & Meyer Capital works closely with high net worth investors and businesses seeking investment opportunities, demonstrating a strong presence in the private equity industry.


5. Stonehenge Partners


Stonehenge Partners, Inc. is a private equity firm based in Columbus, Ohio, founded in 1999. The firm specializes in investments in middle-market companies, focusing on sectors such as manufacturing, distribution, healthcare, and business services. With a commitment of over $1.4 billion in capital, Stonehenge Partners partners with management teams to provide not just financial backing but also strategic and operational support. Their investment strategy includes management buyouts, acquisitions, recapitalizations, and growth equity, with investment amounts typically ranging from $10 million to $50 million. Stonehenge has a history of active engagement in the market, having deployed significant capital in recent years and maintaining a portfolio that reflects their focus on driving growth and creating value for their partners.


6. Walnut Ridge

  • Website: wrfo.com
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Orange, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1946
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: walnut-ridge

Walnut Ridge Family Office is a private family investment firm based in Orange, Ohio, founded in 1946. With a focus on building enduring businesses, Walnut Ridge specializes in investing in founder- and family-owned enterprises. The firm aims to create long-term value through strategic partnerships, leveraging its experience in operational excellence and entrepreneurship. Walnut Ridge primarily targets profitable, lower middle market businesses, providing equity investments ranging from $15 million to $50 million. Their investment strategy is centered on recurring demand and sustainable competitive advantages, particularly in sectors such as business services, specialty manufacturing, and healthcare products. The firm operates with a patient and flexible approach, aligning its interests with those of its partners to foster growth and success. Walnut Ridge is closely tied to GOJO Industries, the maker of PURELL, which informs its investment philosophy and operational insights.


7. Edgewater Capital Partners


Edgewater Capital Partners is a private equity firm based in Cleveland, Ohio, founded in 1998. The firm specializes in investment management and consulting services, primarily targeting sectors such as Specialty Industrials, Life Science, Advanced Materials, and Specialty Chemicals. With a team of 25 employees, Edgewater leverages over two decades of sector-specific investing experience to navigate complex market challenges. They focus on enhancing the growth potential of businesses by providing tailored investment strategies and operational support. Edgewater's recent activities include raising a $330 million private equity fund in December 2023 and facilitating acquisitions within their portfolio, showcasing their active involvement in the industry. Their commitment to Midwestern values, integrity, and accountability underpins their approach to partnerships and investments, making them a notable player in the private equity landscape.


8. Primus Capital Funds (Primus Capital)

  • Website: primuscapital.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1984
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: primus-capital-funds

Primus Capital Funds, established in 1984, is a private equity firm based in Cleveland, Ohio, with an additional office in Atlanta, Georgia. The firm specializes in growth-oriented investments in the healthcare, software, and technology-enabled services sectors. With a focus on partnering with exceptional management teams, Primus Capital aims to accelerate growth and improve operational performance in the companies they invest in. They have a flexible investment strategy that includes buyouts, minority recapitalizations, and expansion financings, allowing them to tailor their approach to meet the specific needs of each transaction. Over the years, Primus has built a portfolio of over 130 companies, demonstrating their commitment to fostering growth and creating shareholder value. Their investment professionals bring a wealth of experience from various backgrounds, enhancing their ability to support portfolio companies effectively. Primus Capital is currently investing from its ninth fund, which has an investment capacity of $800 million.


9. MPE Partners

  • Website: mpepartners.com
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2012
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: mpe-partners

MPE Partners, founded in 2012, is a private equity firm based in Cleveland, Ohio, with a focus on lower middle market investments. The firm specializes in leveraged buyouts and recapitalizations, primarily targeting entrepreneur- and family-owned businesses. MPE Partners aims to enhance the growth and operational performance of its portfolio companies, which are mainly in the high-value manufacturing and commercial services sectors. Their current portfolio includes companies like 80/20, DecoArt, and Mid-States Bolt & Screw, showcasing their commitment to investing in profitable, stand-alone companies as well as divisions of larger corporations. MPE Partners operates with a hands-on approach, providing capital and strategic support to help their investments thrive. They have also established a strong network of operating resources, which further strengthens their ability to drive value in their investments.


10. Cyprium Partners

  • Website: cyprium.com
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1998
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: cyprium-partners

Cyprium Partners, founded in 1998 and based in Cleveland, Ohio, is a private equity firm that specializes in providing non-control capital and strategic guidance to middle-market companies. With a team of experienced professionals, Cyprium focuses on investments ranging from $5 million to $60 million, primarily targeting sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, and business services. The firm has invested approximately $1.9 billion across 100 platform investments, demonstrating a strong commitment to supporting business owners and management teams. Their investment strategy includes various transaction types, such as acquisitions, growth capital, and shareholder liquidity, all while allowing entrepreneurs to maintain control of their businesses. Cyprium's recent achievements include receiving an SBIC license, which enables them to extend their investment strategy to lower middle-market companies, further solidifying their presence in the private equity industry.


11. ScaleCo Capital

  • Website: scaleco.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2018
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: scaleco

ScaleCo Capital is a private equity firm based in Cleveland, Ohio, established in 2018. The firm specializes in investing in small businesses across the Midwest, particularly in the Great Lakes region. ScaleCo Capital provides not only capital but also strategic consulting services aimed at helping companies navigate growth challenges. Their portfolio includes businesses in sectors such as business services, tech-enabled services, value-added distribution, and education and compliance. ScaleCo's approach is characterized by a commitment to operational efficiency and profitability enhancement for their clients. They focus on companies with revenues up to $50 million and EBITDA up to $5 million, indicating a targeted strategy in the lower middle market. ScaleCo Capital's active engagement in the private equity sector is evident through their portfolio management and support for their companies' growth initiatives.


12. Align Capital Partners

  • Website: aligncp.com
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Shaker Heights, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2016
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: align-capital-partners

Align Capital Partners, based in Shaker Heights, Ohio, is a private equity firm founded in 2016. The firm specializes in investing in lower-middle market companies across various sectors, including software and tech-enabled services, professional business services, industrial services, and specialty manufacturing and distribution. Align Capital Partners aims to provide more than just financial backing; they focus on strategic consulting to help management teams drive growth and achieve transformational outcomes. Their approach is characterized by collaboration and alignment with business owners, which allows them to unlock potential in their portfolio companies. They have made several investments in companies like E Source, Marco Rubber & Plastics, and Custom Veterinary Services, showcasing their active role in the industry. Align Capital Partners operates with a team of experienced investors who are committed to creating shared success for all stakeholders involved.


13. Crossroads Group LLC

  • Website: crossroads-group.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Richfield, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, United Arab Emirates 8%
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: crossroads-group-llc

Crossroads Group LLC, founded in 2006 and based in Richfield, Ohio, is a holding company that specializes in real estate and early-stage venture businesses. The firm has expanded its portfolio significantly since its inception, focusing on creating value through strategic investments and partnerships. Crossroads Group is dedicated to not just immediate capital returns but also to the ongoing growth of its investments. This growth is achieved through a combination of management expertise, capital infusion, and repositioning strategies. The company actively seeks opportunities across various industries, showcasing its adaptability and commitment to value creation. With a small team of around 26 employees, Crossroads Group operates primarily in the United States, with a minor presence in the United Arab Emirates. The firm invites businesses and organizations looking to sell or partner in real estate and venture opportunities to engage with them, highlighting their proactive approach to investment.


14. Signet, LLC

  • Website: signetllc.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Akron, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • LinkedIn: signetllc

Signet, LLC, founded in 1995 and based in Akron, Ohio, is a private investment firm that specializes in real estate development, capital solutions, chemical manufacturing, and health & wellness services. With a workforce of around 23 employees, the firm has built a robust portfolio over its 25 years of operation. Signet focuses on providing tailored investment and management solutions to healthcare systems, universities, and municipalities, emphasizing long-term community impact. Their real estate group has successfully completed projects worth over $5 billion, showcasing their expertise in project management and development. Additionally, Signet's health and wellness platform has developed numerous medically integrated fitness centers, serving thousands of members across the United States. Their commitment to community-driven projects and innovative capital solutions positions them as a significant player in the private equity space.


15. Fillmore Capital Partners, LLC

  • Website: fillmorecap.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Powell, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2003
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: fillmorecapitalpartners

Fillmore Capital Partners, LLC, founded in 2003 and based in Powell, Ohio, is an investment company that specializes in real estate and private debt alternatives. The firm operates with a focus on four main initiatives: Fillmore Micro-Core Properties, a private REIT that invests in reliable income-producing real estate; Scioto Properties, which provides tailored real estate solutions for health care providers serving vulnerable populations; a health care operating company that offers post-acute and transitional care; and Fillmore Buckeye Investments, an institutionally sponsored account designed to develop scalable investment strategies. With a team of experienced professionals, Fillmore is committed to delivering strategic investment opportunities and managing a mix of open-end, closed-end, and separate accounts primarily backed by institutional capital. Their vertical integration with affiliates for property and construction management enhances their investment capabilities, positioning them as a significant player in the investment landscape.


16. Kirtland Capital Partners


Kirtland Capital Partners is a private equity firm based in Orange, Ohio, with a history dating back to 1977. The firm specializes in investing in family and founder-owned businesses, primarily in the sectors of precision machining, business services, and food and beverage. Kirtland's approach is centered on providing not just capital, but also management support to help these businesses navigate growth challenges. With a small team of experienced professionals, Kirtland has built a reputation for fostering strong partnerships and leveraging its extensive network to assist portfolio companies. Their investment criteria focus on companies with tangible growth opportunities and a solid financial foundation, typically looking for businesses with revenues over $10 million and EBITDA exceeding $1 million. Kirtland has successfully completed numerous platform and add-on acquisitions, demonstrating their capability to enhance the value of their investments over time.


17. CapitalWorks LLC

  • Website: capitalworks.net
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: capitalworks-llc

CapitalWorks LLC, also known as CW Industrial Partners, is a private equity firm based in Cleveland, Ohio, founded in 1999. The firm specializes in investing in lower middle-market industrial businesses, focusing on sectors such as Aerospace and Defense, Electrical Components, and Motion and Flow Control. With a team of experienced professionals, CapitalWorks partners with skilled entrepreneurs and executives to provide not just capital, but also strategic guidance aimed at driving growth. Their approach emphasizes long-term relationships and operational excellence, which has led to over 40 acquisitions and an enterprise value exceeding $500 million. The firm is committed to understanding the unique challenges of the industries they invest in, leveraging their Industry Advisor Network to enhance the value of their portfolio companies. This focus on partnership and industry expertise distinguishes CapitalWorks in the private equity landscape.


18. Crec

  • Website: crecrealestate.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Columbus, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 83%, Bangladesh 12%, Egypt 6%
  • Founded year: 2001
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • LinkedIn: core-real-estate-capital-llc

CREC Real Estate, LLC, established in 2001, is a private equity firm based in Columbus, Ohio, that specializes in multifamily real estate investments. The firm provides institutional and private investors with access to high-quality investment opportunities, primarily focusing on value-add acquisitions and active asset management. With a disciplined investment process, CREC aims to deliver strong returns while minimizing risks. The company has successfully managed over $1.1 billion in real estate assets, showcasing its capability in navigating various market conditions. CREC's investment strategy emphasizes identifying properties with unrealized value, structuring deals to support desirable returns, and implementing improvements to enhance net operating income. Their commitment to transparency and investor relations further solidifies their position in the private equity space, making them a noteworthy player in the multifamily real estate sector.


19. Peppertree Capital

  • Website: peppertreecapital.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Chagrin Falls, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2004
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: peppertree-capital

Peppertree Capital Management, Inc. is a private equity firm based in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, founded in 2004. The firm focuses on investments in communication infrastructure, managing over $6.5 billion in assets. Peppertree targets growth equity investments in companies that own critical assets such as towers, wireless spectrum, and fiber networks. Their investment strategy is driven by the belief that the demand for data will continue to outpace the capacity of existing wireless networks. With a portfolio that spans 14 countries, Peppertree has made over 170 investments, primarily catering to institutional investors like insurance companies and university endowments. The firm is known for its patient, hands-on investment style, providing capital ranging from a few million dollars to several hundred million, depending on the growth potential of the companies they invest in.


20. LOUD Capital

  • Website: loud.vc
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Columbus, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: loud-capital

LOUD Capital, founded in 2015 and based in Columbus, Ohio, is an investment management firm that specializes in alternative investments and venture capital. The firm is dedicated to creating profit with purpose, leveraging capital to address some of the world's most pressing challenges. LOUD Capital offers a variety of services, including investment management, consulting for entrepreneurs, and workshops designed to foster growth in high-potential companies. Their clientele includes investors seeking diverse opportunities and businesses in need of strategic guidance. With a portfolio that boasts over 100 companies, LOUD Capital actively engages in sectors such as healthcare, technology, and social impact, reflecting their commitment to both financial success and societal improvement. The firm operates with a team of experienced professionals from various backgrounds, enhancing their ability to provide unique insights and opportunities in the investment landscape.


21. Copper Run

  • Website: copperruncap.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Columbus, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2008
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: copper-run

Copper Run, founded in 2008 and based in Columbus, Ohio, is an investment bank that specializes in merger and acquisition advisory services. The firm caters primarily to private equity firms and middle market businesses, providing expert guidance in both buy-side and sell-side transactions. With a team of over 20 deal professionals, Copper Run has established a strong reputation for its thorough approach to M&A, focusing on transactions valued between $10 million and $250 million. Their services include strategic advisory, where they assist clients in firm valuation and industry positioning, ensuring that businesses are well-prepared for the complexities of M&A. Copper Run has successfully completed numerous transactions across various industries, including healthcare, technology, and manufacturing, demonstrating their capability to support clients in achieving strategic growth and maximizing value.



Private Equity Firms Insights: Key Companies in Ohio


CompanyHeadquarterSizeFoundedOwnership
Resilience Capital PartnersCleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)11-502001Private
Rockwood Equity PartnersCleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)11-501999Family Owned
Blue Point Capital PartnersCleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)11-502000Family Owned
Brixey & Meyer CapitalCincinnati, Ohio, United States (USA)11-502015Private
Stonehenge PartnersColumbus, Ohio, United States (USA)11-501999Private
Walnut RidgeOrange, Ohio, United States (USA)11-501946Family Owned
Edgewater Capital PartnersCleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)11-501998Private
Primus Capital Funds (Primus Capital)Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)11-501984Private
MPE PartnersCleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)11-502012Family Owned
Cyprium PartnersCleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)11-501998Family Owned
ScaleCo CapitalCleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)51-2002018Private
Align Capital PartnersShaker Heights, Ohio, United States (USA)11-502016Family Owned
Crossroads Group LLCRichfield, Ohio, United States (USA)11-502005Private
Signet, LLCAkron, Ohio, United States (USA)501-10001995Private
Fillmore Capital Partners, LLCPowell, Ohio, United States (USA)51-2002003Private
Kirtland Capital PartnersOrange, Ohio, United States (USA)1-101977Family Owned
CapitalWorks LLCCleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)11-501999Family Owned
CrecColumbus, Ohio, United States (USA)1-102001Private
Peppertree CapitalChagrin Falls, Ohio, United States (USA)11-502004Private
LOUD CapitalColumbus, Ohio, United States (USA)11-502015Private
Copper RunColumbus, Ohio, United States (USA)11-502008Private


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