Top 21 Private Equity Firms in Virginia
Top 21 Private Equity Firms in Virginia
Virginia hosts a vibrant network of private equity firms, specializing in investing capital into businesses and guiding growth strategies. These firms typically engage with mid-market companies, offering financial backing and expertise tailored to enhance operational efficiency and increase market value. The industry has been witnessing a notable shift towards responsible investing, with an emphasis on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. A growing interest in sustainable businesses is shaping investment strategies, aligning with the preferences of institutional investors.
The featured companies in Virginia’s private equity sector vary in size from small firms to larger entities, with employee counts ranging from less than 10 to over 500. Many were founded from the late 1980s to 2010, reflecting a blend of experience and innovation. The firms primarily focus on sectors like technology, healthcare, and real estate, showcasing their specialization. With headquarters spread across major cities like Richmond, Arlington, and McLean, these companies bring unique investment approaches to different market segments.
Keep reading to discover notable private equity firms in Virginia.
Top 21 Private Equity Firms Companies in Virginia
1. PA Capital
- Website: pacapital.com
- Ownership type: Family Owned
- Headquarters: Richmond, Virginia, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 1997
- Headcount: 51-200
- LinkedIn: pa-capital
PA Capital, founded in 1997, is an investment firm based in Richmond, Virginia, specializing in private equity and alternative investments. The firm has built a reputation for its focus on the middle market, providing capital solutions that cater to institutional investors and sponsors. PA Capital has been involved in various investment strategies, including primary fund investments, secondary investments, and direct co-investments. In 2022, PA Capital merged with GoldPoint Partners and Madison Capital Funding to form Apogem Capital, which now manages approximately $40 billion in assets. This merger has allowed PA Capital to leverage a broader network and enhanced resources, further solidifying its position in the private equity sector. The firm emphasizes responsible investing, integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into its investment processes, which aligns with current trends in the investment community.
2. Sands Capital
- Website: sandscapital.com
- Ownership type: Private
- Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, India 2%
- Founded year: 1992
- Headcount: 201-500
- LinkedIn: sands-capital-management
Sands Capital, founded in 1992 and based in Arlington, Virginia, is an investment management firm that specializes in venture capital, growth equity, and public equity. With a dedicated team of professionals, Sands Capital focuses on providing growth capital solutions to institutional investors and fund sponsors across the globe. The firm emphasizes a long-term investment approach, aiming to enhance client wealth through prudent asset management. Sands Capital has a notable presence in the industry, managing over $53 billion in client assets as of June 30, 2024. Their investment strategies are designed to identify and support high-quality growth businesses, reflecting their commitment to fostering innovation and driving economic progress.
3. Private Advisors Alternative Asset Management
- Website: privateadvisors.com
- Ownership type: Family Owned
- Headquarters: Richmond, Virginia, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 1997
- Headcount: 51-200
- LinkedIn: private-advisors-llc
Private Advisors Alternative Asset Management, now operating under the name Apogem Capital, is an investment firm based in Richmond, Virginia. Founded in 1997, the firm has evolved significantly over the years, culminating in its recent formation in 2022 through the merger of three firms: GoldPoint Partners, Madison Capital Funding, and PA Capital. Apogem Capital specializes in alternative investments, managing approximately $40 billion in assets. The firm focuses on private equity, private credit, and private real assets, catering primarily to institutional investors and sponsors. Their investment strategies include primary fund investments, secondary investments, direct co-investments, and GP stakes, all aimed at unlocking opportunities in the middle market. Apogem Capital's affiliation with New York Life Insurance Company provides additional stability and resources, enhancing their ability to navigate the complexities of the investment landscape.
4. EJF Capital LLC
- Website: ejfcap.com
- Ownership type: Private
- Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, United Kingdom (UK) 8%
- Latest funding: Other (Debt), $57.0M, March 2022
- Founded year: 2005
- Headcount: 51-200
- LinkedIn: ejf-capital
EJF Capital LLC, founded in 2005 and based in Arlington, Virginia, is an investment management firm that specializes in alternative asset management. The firm is particularly focused on regulatory event-driven investing within the financial and real estate sectors. EJF offers a range of investment strategies, including private credit, litigation lending, and venture capital, catering primarily to institutional investors seeking innovative solutions. As of June 30, 2024, EJF manages approximately $6 billion in assets, which includes $3.2 billion in collateralized debt obligations through affiliates. The firm operates with a team of around 59 employees, with a significant presence in the United States and a growing footprint in the United Kingdom. EJF's approach combines investment expertise across various capital structures, aiming to identify creative solutions for complex and mispriced securities. Their recent funding activities, including a $57 million debt round in March 2022, further underscore their active role in the investment community.
5. Unity Growth
- Website: unitygrowthfund.com
- Ownership type: Family Owned
- Headquarters: Reston, Virginia, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 62%, India 38%
- Founded year: 2020
- Headcount: 11-50
- LinkedIn: unity-growth-fund
Unity Growth Fund, based in Reston, Virginia, is a family-owned investment firm that specializes in private equity investments. Founded in 2020, the firm aims to provide accredited investors with opportunities to invest in private companies through special purpose vehicles (SPVs). Unity Growth focuses on managing investments in high-growth sectors, catering to individuals and organizations looking to diversify their portfolios. The firm emphasizes the importance of understanding the risks associated with private equity investments, which are often illiquid and speculative. With a small team of 16 employees, Unity Growth is still establishing its presence in the industry, and while it offers a platform for investment, it has not reported any funding rounds to date.
6. Willow Creek Partners
- Website: willowcreekpartners.com
- Ownership type: Corporate
- Headquarters: Tysons, Virginia, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
- Latest funding: $25.3M, May 2022
- Founded year: 2017
- Headcount: 11-50
- LinkedIn: willow-creek-partners
Willow Creek Partners, founded in 2017 and based in Tysons, Virginia, is a private equity firm that specializes in investment management across real estate, government services, and business and consumer services. The firm is dedicated to uncovering undervalued assets and creating value through strategic investments. With a focus on less efficient markets, Willow Creek Partners aims to identify unique investment opportunities that others may overlook. Their investment strategies include acquiring underperforming properties in high-growth markets and partnering with small to mid-sized government services companies to enhance execution and create long-term value. The firm caters to institutional investors and high-net-worth individuals seeking attractive returns. In May 2022, Willow Creek Partners secured $25.3 million in funding, further solidifying their position in the market and demonstrating their active engagement in investment opportunities.
7. DC Capital Partners Management, LP
- Website: dccp.com
- Ownership type: Private
- Headquarters: Alexandria, Virginia, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 86%, Georgia 14%
- Latest funding: $700.0M, November 2022
- Founded year: 2007
- Headcount: 11-50
- LinkedIn: dc-capital-partners-llc
DC Capital Partners Management, LP is a private equity investment firm based in Alexandria, Virginia, established in 2007. The firm specializes in control equity investments in middle market companies that provide innovative services and solutions primarily in the Government and Engineering sectors. With a team that boasts extensive industry expertise, DC Capital Partners employs a systematic investment process that emphasizes strategic consulting and active management involvement to foster growth and innovation within their portfolio companies. The firm has successfully executed over 60 acquisitions and has invested more than $1 billion across various sectors. Their recent funding round, which raised $700 million in November 2022, underscores their financial strength and commitment to expanding their investment capabilities. DC Capital Partners is dedicated to creating value through a disciplined approach that combines market focus with a strategic process, ensuring they remain a relevant player in the private equity landscape.
8. Quad-C Management, Inc.
- Website: quadcmanagement.com
- Ownership type: Family Owned
- Headquarters: Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
- Founded year: 1989
- Headcount: 11-50
- LinkedIn: quad-c-management-inc.
Quad-C Management, Inc. is a private equity firm based in Charlottesville, Virginia, founded in 1989. The firm specializes in investing in middle-market companies, focusing on sectors such as healthcare, industrials, and consumer services. Quad-C partners with management teams to provide not just capital but also strategic guidance, aiming to help businesses achieve sustainable growth and profitability. Over its three-decade history, Quad-C has invested approximately $4.4 billion across 83 platform companies, showcasing its active role in the private equity industry. The firm operates primarily in North America and has a strong emphasis on collaboration and long-term commitment to its portfolio companies, which enhances its reputation in the market.
9. LNC Partners
- Website: lnc-partners.com
- Ownership type: Private
- Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
- Latest funding: $9.6M, May 2018
- Founded year: 2011
- Headcount: 11-50
- LinkedIn: lnc-partners
LNC Partners, founded in 2011 and based in Arlington, Virginia, is a private equity firm that specializes in investing in lower middle market businesses. The firm has committed over $700 million across four investment funds, focusing on sectors such as business services, technology, and healthcare. LNC Partners aims to enhance operational efficiency and financial performance for its portfolio companies by providing not just capital but also strategic support. They have completed 30 platform investments and 116 add-on acquisitions, showcasing their active role in the industry. Their investment criteria include companies with revenues of $5 million or more and EBITDA between $2 million and $10 million, although they are open to considering other opportunities that present compelling circumstances. LNC Partners emphasizes flexibility in their investment approach, offering a range of equity and debt securities to meet the unique needs of each company they partner with.
10. The Gladstone Companies
- Website: gladstonecompanies.com
- Ownership type: Corporate
- Headquarters: Mclean, Virginia, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
- Latest funding: $1.5M, October 2022
- Founded year: 2001
- Headcount: 51-200
- LinkedIn: the-gladstone-companies
The Gladstone Companies, Inc., based in McLean, Virginia, is an investment management firm that specializes in providing financing solutions to lower middle market companies. Founded in 2001, the firm operates through a family of publicly traded investment funds, which include Gladstone Capital Corporation, Gladstone Investment Corporation, Gladstone Commercial Corporation, and Gladstone Land Corporation. These funds focus on various investment strategies, including private equity investments in mature companies and real estate investments in commercial properties and farmland. The Gladstone Companies aim to deliver monthly cash distributions to their shareholders, reflecting their commitment to providing reliable returns. Their strategic focus on lower middle market businesses positions them as a key player in this niche of the private equity market, catering to both businesses seeking capital and investors looking for consistent income.
11. Excel Group
- Website: excelgp.com
- Ownership type: Corporate
- Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 83%, Mexico 9%, India 9%
- Latest funding: August 2019
- Founded year: 2011
- Headcount: 1-10
- LinkedIn: excel-group
Excel Group, founded in 2011 and based in Arlington, Virginia, is a specialized hotel investment firm. The company focuses on acquiring and developing premium-branded limited-service hotels, providing tailored asset management services and investment strategies to institutional investors and capital partners. With a portfolio that spans multiple states and a commitment to maximizing performance through intensive asset management, Excel Group has successfully executed over 40 transactions, managing assets valued at over $9.5 billion. Their approach combines a data-driven strategy with a keen understanding of market dynamics, allowing them to identify and capitalize on opportunities in both primary and secondary markets. Excel Group's team boasts extensive experience in hotel real estate, further enhancing their capability to deliver superior returns in a competitive market.
12. Blue Heron Capital
- Website: blueheroncap.com
- Ownership type: Private
- Headquarters: Richmond, Virginia, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
- Founded year: 2006
- Headcount: 1-10
- LinkedIn: blue-heron-capital
Blue Heron Capital, founded in 2006 and based in Richmond, Virginia, is a private investment firm that specializes in growth equity investments. The firm primarily targets early-stage companies in the healthcare and enterprise technology sectors. Their investment strategy is centered around providing not only financial capital but also operational support to help these companies scale effectively. Blue Heron Capital prides itself on fostering strong relationships with its portfolio companies, ensuring that they are not just investors but partners in the entrepreneurial journey. Their focus on healthcare innovation includes addressing cost containment and improving patient care, while in enterprise technology, they seek platforms with scalable business models. The firm operates with a small team, emphasizing a hands-on approach to investment management, which is further enhanced by their OA Collaborative, a network of experienced entrepreneurs and business operators who provide additional insights and support to portfolio companies.
13. Battle Monument Group
- Website: battlemonument.com
- Ownership type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Richmond, Virginia, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
- Latest funding: Seed, $1.0M, November 2017
- Founded year: 2014
- Headcount: 1-10
- LinkedIn: battlemonument
Battle Monument Group, founded in 2014 and based in Richmond, Virginia, is an investment management firm that specializes in private real estate funds. The firm is dedicated to providing stable fixed income to accredited investors, with a particular emphasis on veterans and industry professionals. They have developed a strategy centered on investing in stabilized commercial properties, which allows them to offer consistent returns to their investors. With a track record of over 30 consecutive quarters of performance, they have built a reputation for reliability, boasting a nearly 70% reinvestment rate among their investors. The firm also actively supports veteran charities, allocating a portion of their surplus yield to these causes. As of now, they have successfully managed over 150 properties and have recently expanded their portfolio with significant acquisitions, including a $41 million deal for 44 Dollar General stores. This growth reflects their commitment to enhancing the economic power of their investor base while maintaining a focus on stability and risk management.
14. Aldrich Capital Partners
- Website: aldrichcap.com
- Ownership type: Private
- Headquarters: Vienna, Virginia, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 63%, India 37%
- Founded year: 2014
- Headcount: 11-50
- LinkedIn: aldrich-capital-partners
Aldrich Capital Partners, founded in 2014 and based in Vienna, Virginia, is a growth equity firm that specializes in providing capital and strategic support to ambitious companies, particularly in the technology sector. The firm partners with founder-run businesses, leveraging its extensive experience and network to help these companies scale and achieve their growth objectives. Aldrich Capital has managed over $1.2 billion in assets and has a strong focus on technology investments, having been responsible for significant capital deployment in this area. Their portfolio includes companies across various sectors, such as fintech and healthcare IT, showcasing their commitment to supporting innovative solutions. Aldrich Capital's team comprises experienced investors and operators who understand the challenges of entrepreneurship, allowing them to offer valuable insights and resources to their partners.
15. Blue Delta Capital Partners
- Website: bluedeltacapitalpartners.com
- Ownership type: Private
- Headquarters: Mclean, Virginia, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
- Latest funding: $215.0M, December 2021
- Founded year: 2009
- Headcount: 1-10
- LinkedIn: blue-delta-capital-partners
Blue Delta Capital Partners, founded in 2009 and based in McLean, Virginia, is a venture capital firm that specializes in growth equity investments. The firm is dedicated to supporting companies that provide technology-enabled solutions to the U.S. Federal Government. With a focus on sectors such as defense, intelligence, homeland security, health, and civilian agencies, Blue Delta partners with promising firms to help them accelerate growth and meet critical mission needs. The firm employs a patient and flexible investment strategy, typically investing between $15 million and $50 million in cash flow positive companies with revenues ranging from $20 million to over $100 million. Blue Delta's team consists of experienced professionals, many of whom have held senior positions in government contracting and venture capital, allowing them to offer valuable insights and strategic guidance to their portfolio companies. In December 2021, Blue Delta secured $215 million in funding, further solidifying its capacity to support its investments and enhance its operational capabilities.
16. Wellings Capital
- Website: wellingscapital.com
- Ownership type: Private
- Headquarters: Lynchburg, Virginia, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
- Founded year: 2015
- Headcount: 11-50
- LinkedIn: wellings-capital-llc
Wellings Capital is a private equity firm based in Lynchburg, Virginia, established in 2015. The firm focuses on real estate investments, particularly in commercial sectors such as self-storage facilities and manufactured housing communities. With a portfolio valued at approximately $330 million, Wellings Capital manages around $160 million in investor equity. The firm has attracted over 900 accredited investors, emphasizing a thorough 27-step due diligence process to ensure quality investment opportunities. Their mission is to help high earners and high net worth individuals protect and grow their wealth through strategic investments in private commercial real estate. Wellings Capital aims to provide transparency and regular updates to its investors, fostering trust and long-term relationships in the investment community.
17. Columbia Capital
- Website: colcap.com
- Ownership type: Private
- Headquarters: Alexandria, Virginia, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 89%, Canada 5%, United Kingdom (UK) 5%
- Founded year: 1989
- Headcount: 11-50
- LinkedIn: columbia-capital
Columbia Capital, founded in 1989 and based in Alexandria, Virginia, is an investment firm that specializes in the Communications and Technology sectors. The firm has raised $7.1 billion in fund commitments and is currently investing from its seventh institutional fund, which totals $680 million. Columbia Capital has a history of partnering with entrepreneurs to create and grow businesses that address the challenges of digital infrastructure and enterprise technology. Their investment strategy is characterized by a focus on equity capital and consulting services, helping companies navigate the complexities of the tech landscape. Over the years, Columbia Capital has invested in more than 175 portfolio companies, demonstrating a commitment to fostering innovation and growth in the sectors they target. Their portfolio includes notable names such as Zayo and Cologix, reflecting their deep engagement in the industry.
18. GEF Capital Partners
- Website: gefcapital.com
- Ownership type: Private
- Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: India 43%, Brazil 32%, United States (USA) 25%
- Founded year: 2018
- Headcount: 11-50
- LinkedIn: gef-capital-partners
GEF Capital Partners, based in Arlington, Virginia, is an investment firm dedicated to sustainability and environmental impact. Established in 2018, the firm emerged from a spinout of the Global Environment Fund, which has a long history in environmental investing. GEF Capital focuses on providing investment management and consulting services to businesses in the clean energy and resource efficiency sectors. Their investment strategy is centered on addressing climate change and pollution mitigation, with a portfolio that includes companies involved in energy efficiency, waste management, and water conservation. GEF Capital actively integrates ESG factors into their investment processes, believing that responsible investment can lead to superior risk-adjusted returns. The firm has a global presence with offices in the United States, Brazil, and India, allowing them to tap into high-growth markets while maintaining a local focus. Their recent fundraising efforts, including the closing of the US Climate Solutions Fund II at $325 million, highlight their active role in the private equity industry and commitment to promoting sustainable business practices.
19. Clarendon Capital, LLC
- Website: clarendongrp.com
- Ownership type: Private
- Headquarters: Tysons, Virginia, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
- Founded year: 1998
- Headcount: 11-50
- LinkedIn: clarendoncapital
Clarendon Capital, LLC, founded in 1998 and based in Tysons, Virginia, is an investment management and consulting firm that specializes in the transportation, logistics, and distribution sectors. With a team of experienced professionals, Clarendon Capital provides strategic advisory services and investment management to businesses in these industries. Their focus is on helping companies optimize operations and achieve growth. Notably, Clarendon Capital was instrumental in the creation of RoadLink, an intermodal logistics company, which highlights their active role in shaping and supporting businesses within their sector. The firm operates with a small team of 11-50 employees, emphasizing a hands-on approach to investment and management. Their expertise and commitment to the transportation and logistics industries make them a significant player in this niche market.
20. Attain
- Website: attain.com
- Ownership type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Mclean, Virginia, United States (USA)
- Latest funding: Seed, $250,000, March 2015
- Founded year: 2009
- Headcount: 201-500
- LinkedIn: attain_496899
Attain is a management, technology, and strategy consulting firm based in McLean, Virginia, founded in 2009. The company operates primarily in the government, education, healthcare, and non-profit sectors. Attain provides a range of services, including management consulting and technology solutions, aimed at improving client operations and achieving strategic objectives. A notable aspect of Attain's operations is Attain Capital, its private equity arm, which invests in firms that deliver high-value, technology-enabled solutions to government and education clients. This focus on active ownership and operational improvement reflects a commitment to fostering growth in these sectors. Attain has a workforce of approximately 422 employees, indicating a robust organizational structure to support its consulting and investment activities.
21. PBM Capital Group
- Website: pbmcap.com
- Ownership type: Private
- Headquarters: Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
- Founded year: 2010
- Headcount: 11-50
- LinkedIn: pbm-capital-group
PBM Capital Group, founded in 2010 and based in Charlottesville, Virginia, is a private investment firm with a strong focus on the healthcare sector. The firm partners with scientists and entrepreneurs to develop innovative pharmaceutical products, providing both funding and operational management to its portfolio companies. PBM Capital has been instrumental in bringing life-changing therapies to market, emphasizing its commitment to addressing unmet medical needs. The firm has successfully guided several companies, such as AveXis, Dova Pharmaceuticals, and Verrica Pharmaceuticals, through their growth phases, including initial public offerings. Since its inception, PBM Capital has created over $10 billion in shareholder value, showcasing its effectiveness in the private equity landscape. The firm operates with a small, dedicated team that leverages extensive industry knowledge and strategic relationships to enhance the success of its investments.
Private Equity Firms Insights: Key Companies in Virginia
| Company | Headquarter | Size | Founded | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PA Capital | Richmond, Virginia, United States (USA) | 51-200 | 1997 | Family Owned |
| Sands Capital | Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA) | 201-500 | 1992 | Private |
| Private Advisors Alternative Asset Management | Richmond, Virginia, United States (USA) | 51-200 | 1997 | Family Owned |
| EJF Capital LLC | Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA) | 51-200 | 2005 | Private |
| Unity Growth | Reston, Virginia, United States (USA) | 11-50 | 2020 | Family Owned |
| Willow Creek Partners | Tysons, Virginia, United States (USA) | 11-50 | 2017 | Corporate |
| DC Capital Partners Management, LP | Alexandria, Virginia, United States (USA) | 11-50 | 2007 | Private |
| Quad-C Management, Inc. | Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA) | 11-50 | 1989 | Family Owned |
| LNC Partners | Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA) | 11-50 | 2011 | Private |
| The Gladstone Companies | Mclean, Virginia, United States (USA) | 51-200 | 2001 | Corporate |
| Excel Group | Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA) | 1-10 | 2011 | Corporate |
| Blue Heron Capital | Richmond, Virginia, United States (USA) | 1-10 | 2006 | Private |
| Battle Monument Group | Richmond, Virginia, United States (USA) | 1-10 | 2014 | Venture Capital |
| Aldrich Capital Partners | Vienna, Virginia, United States (USA) | 11-50 | 2014 | Private |
| Blue Delta Capital Partners | Mclean, Virginia, United States (USA) | 1-10 | 2009 | Private |
| Wellings Capital | Lynchburg, Virginia, United States (USA) | 11-50 | 2015 | Private |
| Columbia Capital | Alexandria, Virginia, United States (USA) | 11-50 | 1989 | Private |
| GEF Capital Partners | Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA) | 11-50 | 2018 | Private |
| Clarendon Capital, LLC | Tysons, Virginia, United States (USA) | 11-50 | 1998 | Private |
| Attain | Mclean, Virginia, United States (USA) | 201-500 | 2009 | Venture Capital |
| PBM Capital Group | Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (USA) | 11-50 | 2010 | Private |
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