Private equity firms in Massachusetts play a crucial role in the financial ecosystem by investing in private companies, providing capital for growth, and driving operational improvements. These businesses focus on various sectors, ranging from technology and healthcare to real estate and services. As the industry evolves, firms are increasingly emphasizing sustainable practices and demographic trends. With the rise of technology and innovation, private equity firms are not just financial backers but also strategic partners in shaping the future of the companies they invest in, seeking long-term value and significant returns for their investors.

The private equity firms listed here are predominantly based in Boston, Massachusetts, with a history spanning from 1973 to 2018. Comprising various company sizes, from boutique firms with fewer than 20 employees to larger organizations with over 3,600 staff members, each firm specializes in unique investment strategies. Notable among them are Advent International and HarbourVest Partners, which are recognized for their significant impacts on the industry through comprehensive investment approaches and well-established global networks.

Continue reading to explore the top private equity firms in Massachusetts.

Top 24 Private Equity Firms Companies in Massachusetts

1. Advent

• Website: adventinternational.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 47%, United Kingdom (UK) 22%, Brazil 5%, Other 26%
• Founded year: 1984
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: advent-international

Advent International Corporation, founded in 1984 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a private equity firm that specializes in buyouts and investments across multiple sectors. With a workforce of approximately 1,239 employees, Advent operates on a global scale, with significant presence in the United States, the United Kingdom, Brazil, India, and Germany. The firm partners with companies to provide not only capital but also strategic guidance, helping them to achieve growth and effectively navigate market challenges. Advent's investment strategy focuses on long-term value creation, which is evident in their extensive portfolio that includes various case studies and successful IPOs. Their commitment to responsible investment and community engagement further highlights their role in the industry, as they actively contribute to the societies in which they operate. Advent's approach to private equity is characterized by a partnership model that emphasizes collaboration with management teams to overcome challenges and seize opportunities for growth.

2. HarbourVest Partners

• Website: harbourvest.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 75%, United Kingdom (UK) 11%, Singapore 6%, Other 8%
• Founded year: 1982
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: harbourvest-partners

HarbourVest Partners is an investment management firm based in Boston, Massachusetts, specializing in private equity. Established in 1982, the firm has built a strong reputation for its comprehensive approach to private markets. HarbourVest offers a range of services tailored for institutional investors, including fund of funds, direct co-investments, and secondary investments. With a global footprint, the firm operates in major financial hubs, providing clients with access to a wide array of investment opportunities. HarbourVest's expertise spans various asset classes, including infrastructure and private credit, allowing them to navigate complex market conditions effectively. The firm prides itself on fostering long-term partnerships and delivering customized investment solutions to meet the unique needs of its clients.

3. TA Associates

• Website: ta.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 68%, United Kingdom (UK) 20%, India 7%, Other 6%
• Founded year: 1968
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: ta-associates

TA Associates, founded in 1968 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a private equity firm that specializes in growth investments. With a focus on technology, healthcare, consumer products, financial services, and business services, TA Associates partners with management teams to provide capital and strategic resources aimed at scaling businesses and enhancing their market positions. Over the years, the firm has raised $65 billion and completed more than 560 investments, showcasing its significant involvement in the private equity industry. TA operates globally, with offices in key financial hubs including Menlo Park, Austin, London, Mumbai, and Hong Kong. Their investment strategy emphasizes collaboration with portfolio companies, aiming to drive growth and create lasting value. The firm has a strong track record, having participated in numerous successful exits and public offerings, further solidifying its reputation in the private equity sector.

4. Audax Group

• Website: audaxgroup.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: audax-group

Audax Group, founded in 1999 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, is an investment firm that specializes in private equity and private debt. With a workforce of around 415 employees, Audax focuses on providing customized financing solutions to middle market companies, helping them to grow and enhance their value. The firm manages approximately $39 billion in assets, reflecting its substantial involvement in the industry. Audax operates through three main business lines: Audax Private Equity, Audax Private Debt, and Audax Strategic Capital. Their investment strategy spans the full capital structure, allowing them to engage with a wide array of companies across various sectors. Over the years, Audax has completed more than 2,500 transactions, showcasing their active role in the market. Their commitment to responsible investment practices and social responsibility initiatives further underscores their dedication to sustainable growth and value creation.

5. Berkshire Partners

• Website: berkshirepartners.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1980
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: berkshire-partners

Berkshire Partners is a private equity firm based in Boston, Massachusetts, established in 1986. The firm specializes in investing in middle-market companies across multiple sectors, including healthcare, technology, and consumer products. With a focus on partnering with management teams, Berkshire provides both capital and strategic support to help these companies grow and achieve their potential. Over its 35-year history, Berkshire has raised ten private equity funds and made over 150 investments, demonstrating a robust track record in the industry. The firm operates with a commitment to responsible investing and sustainability, having become a signatory to the United Nations-supported Principles for Responsible Investment. Their portfolio includes notable companies such as Ensemble Health Partners and IVC Evidensia, reflecting their active engagement in various sectors. Berkshire Partners continues to evolve, adapting to market changes while maintaining a strong focus on creating lasting value for their portfolio companies and investors.

6. Audax Private Equity

• Website: audaxprivateequity.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: audax-private-equity

Audax Private Equity, headquartered in Boston with additional offices in San Francisco, New York, and London, is a private equity firm that specializes in investment management and capital growth. Since its inception in 1999, Audax has focused on partnering with middle market companies across various sectors, providing them with not only financial resources but also strategic guidance to enhance their operations. The firm employs a Buy & Build approach, which aims to optimize the value of its portfolio companies through targeted investments and operational support. With approximately $19 billion in assets under management, Audax has made over 170 platform investments and 1,300 add-on acquisitions, showcasing its active role in the industry. The firm is committed to fostering growth in its portfolio companies, leveraging its extensive resources and industry expertise to drive significant value creation.

7. Charlesbank Capital Partners

• Website: charlesbank.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: charlesbank-capital-partners

Charlesbank Capital Partners is a private equity firm based in Boston, Massachusetts, specializing in management-led buyouts and growth capital financing for middle-market companies. Since its inception in 1998, following a spin-out from Harvard University's endowment, Charlesbank has focused on helping businesses unlock value and accelerate growth. The firm operates with a disciplined investment strategy and has built a reputation for partnering closely with management teams to drive profitability. With approximately 170 employees, Charlesbank manages around $22 billion in total assets across three main strategies: flagship private equity, technology opportunities, and opportunistic credit. Their investment approach is characterized by a focus on sectors such as business and consumer services, healthcare, industrial, and technology. Charlesbank's commitment to responsible investing and its recognition as a top private equity firm by GrowthCap highlight its active role and relevance in the private equity industry.

8. Summit Partners

• Website: summitpartners.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 83%, United Kingdom (UK) 13%, Other 5%
• Founded year: 1984
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: summit-partners

Summit Partners is a private investment firm based in Boston, Massachusetts, founded in 1984. The firm specializes in growth equity investments, primarily targeting category-leading companies in technology, healthcare, and life sciences. With a team of experienced professionals, Summit Partners aims to provide not only capital but also strategic resources to help businesses achieve their growth objectives. Over the years, they have invested more than $32 billion in over 550 companies, resulting in 175 public offerings and 250 strategic sales or mergers. Their portfolio includes notable companies like Klaviyo and Darktrace, showcasing their commitment to supporting innovative firms. Summit Partners operates with a collaborative approach, often taking minority or majority stakes in their investments, and has a significant presence in both the U.S. and European markets.

9. Glouston Capital Partners

• Website: glouston.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: permal-capital-management

Glouston Capital Partners, based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a private equity firm that specializes in investment management. Founded in 1994, the firm has built a strong presence in the private equity sector, particularly in the secondary market. As of June 30, 2024, Glouston has over $3.3 billion in committed capital, reflecting its ability to attract significant investments. The firm focuses on North American buyout and growth funds, providing tailored investment solutions to institutional investors. Their investment strategies include secondary investments, co-investments, and primary investments, allowing them to navigate various economic cycles effectively. Glouston's team leverages long-standing relationships and deep market knowledge to evaluate managers and investment opportunities, ensuring they meet the unique objectives of their clients.

10. Solamere Capital, LLC

• Website: solamerecapital.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: solamere-capital-llc

Solamere Capital, LLC is a private equity firm based in Boston, Massachusetts, founded in 2008 by Tagg Romney, Eric Scheuermann, and Spencer Zwick. The firm specializes in investing in growing founder and family-led businesses, leveraging a strategic network of over 200 investors to provide capital and expertise. Solamere focuses on companies with EBITDA greater than $7 million, aiming to create value through both direct investments and partnerships with other private equity and venture capital investors. The firm operates across various sectors, including commercial services, professional services, and aerospace, among others. With a dedicated team and a commitment to long-term investment strategies, Solamere Capital continues to play an active role in the private equity industry.

11. Parthenon Capital

• Website: parthenoncapitalpartners.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: parthenon-capital

Parthenon Capital Partners is a private equity firm based in Boston, Massachusetts, founded in 1998. The firm specializes in providing capital and strategic resources to growth companies primarily in the financial services, healthcare services, and business services sectors. Parthenon Capital partners with management teams to enhance operational efficiency and drive growth through both acquisitions and organic strategies. They have completed over 50 platform acquisitions and 200 add-on acquisitions, representing more than $5 billion in value. The firm employs a research-driven approach, leveraging deep industry expertise to create value and build market leaders. Their team includes specialists in various fields, allowing them to support management teams in executing acquisition-driven growth and navigating complex market dynamics.

12. The Baupost Group

• Website: baupost.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1982
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: the-baupost-group

The Baupost Group, founded in 1982 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, is an investment management firm that specializes in long-term, value-oriented investing. The firm was established by four founding families with the goal of protecting and growing their wealth over generations. Today, Baupost serves a clientele that includes families, foundations, and endowments, managing a portfolio that spans various asset classes, including publicly traded securities, private equity, and real estate. Under the leadership of CEO and Portfolio Manager Seth Klarman, the firm emphasizes rigorous risk management and a disciplined investment philosophy. Baupost's approach is characterized by thorough fundamental analysis and a commitment to continuous improvement, fostering a collaborative culture among its team of skilled investment professionals. While the firm does not actively seek new capital, its historical performance and strategic investment practices have made it a respected name in the investment community.

13. JMH Capital Partners, LLC

• Website: jmhcapital.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: jmh-capital

JMH Capital Partners, LLC is a private equity firm based in Boston, Massachusetts, established in 2003. The firm specializes in operationally-driven investments, primarily targeting established businesses with significant growth potential. JMH Capital focuses on companies within the Industrial, Services, and Consumer sectors, investing in firms that typically generate between $5 million and $100 million in revenue. Their investment strategy involves providing not just capital but also expertise to help management teams navigate transitions and improve operational performance. JMH Capital has a history of partnering with business owners and executives, emphasizing a collaborative approach to drive growth and enhance value. The firm has completed over 30 acquisitions, representing more than $500 million in invested capital, showcasing their active role in the private equity industry.

14. GroveStreet

• Website: grovestreet.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Newton, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: August 2019
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: grovestreet

Grove Street Advisors, LLC, based in Newton, Massachusetts, is an investment firm that specializes in private equity and venture capital. Founded in 1998, GroveStreet has built a reputation for providing customized investment management services to large institutional investors. The firm has successfully managed over $10 billion in commitments through 46 separate accounts, demonstrating its capability in navigating complex investment landscapes. GroveStreet focuses on creating tailored portfolios that allow investors to access hard-to-reach segments of private equity. Their investment strategy emphasizes long-term relationships and a disciplined approach to diversification, balancing risk across various strategies and sectors. The firm is registered with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission as an investment adviser, ensuring compliance with industry regulations. GroveStreet's commitment to performance and customization makes it a notable player in the private equity sector.

15. THL Partners

• Website: thl.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1974
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: thomas-h-lee-partners

THL Partners, based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a private equity firm founded in 1974. The firm specializes in investing in middle-market growth companies across various sectors, including Financial Technology & Services, Healthcare, and Technology & Business Solutions. THL Partners focuses on partnering with companies to foster growth and enhance value through strategic investments and operational expertise. Over its history, THL has raised $36 billion in equity capital and has collaborated with over 170 partner companies globally. Their portfolio reflects a commitment to sectors that are not only vital to the economy but also poised for significant growth. THL is currently investing from its ninth flagship fund and has also established an Automation Fund aimed at driving digital transformation across multiple industries. Their approach emphasizes collaboration and trust, aiming to create lasting partnerships that yield substantial returns.

16. Constitution Capital Partners

• Website: concp.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Andover, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, United Kingdom (UK) 2%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: constitution-capital-partners

Constitution Capital Partners is an investment management firm based in Andover, Massachusetts, specializing in alternative asset management. Founded in 2008, the firm focuses on private equity and private credit investments primarily within the North American middle market. With a dedicated team of professionals, Constitution Capital has managed approximately $6.5 billion in committed capital across various funds. They have completed over 295 investments, showcasing their active engagement in the market. The firm prides itself on its disciplined, value-oriented investment approach, which has consistently delivered top quartile returns to its investors. Their client base includes institutional investors, pension plans, and foundations, reflecting their capability to tailor investment solutions to meet specific goals and risk profiles. Constitution Capital's strategy involves partnership investments in high-quality buyout funds and co-investments in promising companies, further solidifying their role in the private equity landscape.

17. Conjoin Group

• Website: conjoingroup.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: India 100%
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: conjoin-group

Conjoin Group, founded in 2018 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a private equity firm that specializes in providing capital and operational expertise to mid-sized companies in North America. The firm is dedicated to transforming businesses that face operational challenges or are undergoing ownership transitions. Their services include strategic consulting, business process reengineering, and market expansion strategies. Conjoin Group partners with companies across various sectors, including IT and healthcare, to enhance performance and drive growth. They operate as a fundless sponsor, which means they invest their own capital alongside their partners, ensuring alignment of interests. With a commitment of at least $350 million in equity capital, Conjoin Group is positioned to support significant transformations in their portfolio companies, focusing on those with strong fundamentals and high growth potential.

18. Cambridge Associates

• Website: cambridgeassociates.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 81%, United Kingdom (UK) 11%, Singapore 4%, Other 4%
• Latest funding: May 2018
• Founded year: 1973
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: cambridge-associates

Cambridge Associates LLC, founded in 1973 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, is an investment management firm that specializes in providing portfolio management and advisory services to institutional investors, private clients, and family offices. With a workforce of approximately 1,855 employees, the firm has built a reputation for crafting custom investment portfolios tailored to meet the unique financial objectives of its clients. Cambridge Associates focuses on various asset classes, including private equity, venture capital, hedge funds, and real assets. Their extensive experience and global network enable them to deliver investment outperformance and support clients in making informed investment decisions. The firm is particularly noted for its commitment to sustainable and impact investing, reflecting a growing trend among investors seeking to align their portfolios with their values. Although Cambridge Associates has not reported any recent funding, their established presence and expertise in the investment management industry underscore their relevance and influence.

19. Abry Partners

• Website: abry.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, United Kingdom (UK) 4%
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: abry-partners

Abry Partners, based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a private equity firm that specializes in investing in middle market companies across various sectors, including communications, media, information, and business services. Since its inception in 1989, Abry has focused on providing strategic support and capital to help businesses grow and achieve their objectives. The firm manages around $5.4 billion in active capital and has completed over $90 billion in investments globally. Abry's investment strategy targets profitable companies with strong operating characteristics, such as recurring revenues and high free cash flow. Their portfolio includes a range of companies in sectors like healthcare IT, data centers, and media, showcasing their ability to adapt and thrive in a competitive market. Abry's team of experienced investment professionals works closely with management teams to implement strategic initiatives that drive value creation.

20. Riverside Partners

• Website: riversidepartners.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: riverside-partners

Riverside Partners is a Boston-based private equity firm founded in 1989, specializing in investments within the technology and healthcare sectors. The firm focuses on middle-market companies, providing them with capital and strategic support to facilitate growth and operational success. With approximately $1 billion in assets, Riverside Partners leverages its extensive network and industry expertise to assist portfolio companies in navigating challenges and maximizing value. Their team consists of former operators and consultants who understand the intricacies of the sectors they invest in. Riverside's investment strategy includes targeting companies with $3-15 million in EBITDA, emphasizing control investments and growth equity. Their portfolio reflects a commitment to companies that are poised for sustainable growth, showcasing their ability to identify and nurture businesses with distinctive models.

21. Rucker Investments

• Website: ruckerinvestments.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Beverly, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: rucker-investments

Rucker Investments is a private investment firm based in Beverly, Massachusetts, established in 2018. The firm specializes in providing capital and strategic support to businesses facing significant challenges. With a focus on private equity, real estate, sports, entertainment, and hospitality, Rucker Investments aims to assist companies during critical inflection points in their business lifecycle. Their methodology emphasizes immediate and transformative investments, aiming to create long-term positive impacts not only for the businesses they invest in but also for the communities they serve. The firm operates as a family office, reflecting a commitment to integrity and community engagement. Rucker Investments is led by Cliff Rucker, who has a background in equipment leasing and property management, and has also ventured into sports ownership with the Worcester Railers Hockey Club. The firm’s portfolio includes a variety of holdings across its targeted sectors, showcasing its multifaceted investment strategy.

22. HighVista Strategies

• Website: highvista.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $675.0M, May 2024
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: highvista-strategies

HighVista Strategies is an investment management firm based in Boston, Massachusetts, established in 2004. The firm specializes in alternative asset management, offering a range of investment strategies that include private equity, private credit, and public market strategies. With a focus on delivering enduring and outsized alpha, HighVista targets sophisticated investors seeking unique opportunities in inefficient markets. The firm manages over $10 billion in assets, reflecting its significant role in the investment landscape. HighVista's private market strategies include lower middle market private equity and early-stage venture capital, showcasing their commitment to identifying and capitalizing on niche investment opportunities. Their recent funding of $675 million in May 2024 further underscores their active engagement in the industry and ability to attract capital. HighVista's culture emphasizes rigorous investment practices and a collaborative approach, positioning them as a preferred partner for investors looking for differentiated ideas that can amplify returns.

23. Wellington Management

• Website: wellington.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 70%, United Kingdom (UK) 16%, Hong Kong S.A.R 4%, Other 10%
• Founded year: 1933
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: wellington-management

Wellington Management Company, founded in 1933 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, is a private investment management firm. With a workforce of over 3,600 employees, the firm serves more than 2,200 institutional clients globally. Wellington offers a wide range of investment solutions, including equity, fixed income, and alternatives, with a strong emphasis on sustainable investing. Their private investing teams focus on providing tailored solutions across various sectors, leveraging insights from public market experts to create value at different stages of company growth. The firm manages over $1 trillion in client assets, showcasing its significant presence in the investment management industry. Wellington's commitment to sustainability and responsible investing is evident in their various initiatives aimed at addressing climate change and promoting social equity.

24. Long Wharf Capital

• Website: longwharf.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: long-wharf-real-estate-partners

Long Wharf Capital LLC is a Boston-based private equity firm that specializes in real estate investments. Established in 2011, the firm focuses on value-added strategies aimed at enhancing returns for institutional clients, including pension funds, endowments, foundations, and family offices. With a team that averages over 30 years of experience, Long Wharf Capital has developed a strong track record in the industry. Since launching its first fund in 2012, the firm has invested $1.4 billion in equity across more than 80 investments, with a gross asset acquisition totaling $1.8 billion. Their approach combines deep market knowledge with hands-on experience in commercial property management, leasing, and development. Long Wharf Capital is committed to maintaining high standards of transparency and integrity, which are central to their investment philosophy.

Private Equity Firms Insights: Key Companies in Massachusetts

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