Top Private Equity Firms in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Grand Rapids, Michigan, has emerged as a growing hub for business, with several prominent private equity (PE) firms playing a key role in driving economic growth. These firms invest in diverse industries, such as manufacturing, healthcare, technology, and consumer goods, helping businesses expand and scale.

In this article, we’ll highlight some of the top private equity firms in Grand Rapids, showcasing their strategies, portfolio companies, and overall impact on the region.

Blackford Capital

Founded in 2010 and based in Grand Rapids, Blackford Capital is a leading private equity firm specializing in investing in family- and founder-owned, lower-middle-market businesses. The firm primarily focuses on sectors such as manufacturing, distribution, and consumer products. Blackford Capital's team of experienced managers leverages industry insight, data, and operational expertise to drive growth and maximize value creation in its portfolio companies.

Notable investments include Security Fire Systems, an industry leader in fire security and protection, and PACIV, a provider of process automation, instrumentation, and validation services. Blackford Capital focuses on companies with solid performance that are uniquely positioned to grow with the addition of capital and management support. 

VPE Group

VPE Group is a Grand Rapids-based private equity firm that invests exclusively in the technology sector. Established to support its internal business units as they expanded and diversified, VPE Group operates a unique shared services model. This approach allows the independent brands within its portfolio to leverage shared operational resources while maintaining their distinct identities and go-to-market strategies.

Today, VPE Group is made up of Vista IT Group, a comprehensive IT solutions provider, and V3 Distribution, a specialized distribution company. As a family-owned firm, VPE Group is one of the few private equity companies in the U.S. solely focused on driving innovation and growth in the technology industry.

LV2 Equity Partners

LV2 Equity Partners is a Michigan-based private investment group specializing in controlling interest investments in niche manufacturers, value-added distributors, and specialty service companies. With an operationally focused approach, the firm partners with lower middle-market businesses that have strong growth potential and opportunities for profit improvement.

LV2 Equity Partners provides both capital and hands-on strategic guidance to optimize operations and drive sustainable expansion. By leveraging industry expertise and operational resources, the firm helps portfolio companies enhance efficiency, expand market reach, and achieve long-term success.

Red Oak Capital Holdings

Red Oak Capital Holdings, with an office in Grand Rapids, is a private equity firm specializing in alternative investments with a focus on small-balance commercial real estate lending. The firm raises capital through broker-dealer networks, registered investment advisors, institutional investors, family offices, and private high-net-worth individuals. Red Oak Capital prioritizes preserving investor capital while delivering attractive risk-adjusted returns.

With a national footprint and a strong ESG (Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance) focus, Red Oak leverages its operational expertise to navigate complex market conditions. The firm’s team has successfully managed investments through multiple economic cycles, ensuring sustainable growth and value creation in a highly fragmented lending market.

Charter Capital Partners

Charter Capital Partners, established in 1989, is a premier investment banking and private equity firm based in Michigan. The firm provides capital solutions for middle-market businesses, offering a full range of services including capital raising, acquisitions, growth funding, business valuation, exit planning, and business sales.

With a team of professionals who have experience in national investment banks, CPA firms, family offices, and commercial banks, Charter Capital Partners brings deep expertise in mergers, acquisitions, and valuations. 

Let’s Recap

Grand Rapids is home to a diverse range of private equity firms that are driving growth and creating value across various sectors. These firms have established themselves as key players in the region’s economic development by identifying high-potential investments and supporting businesses through strategic guidance and operational improvements.

If you're an entrepreneur or business owner looking to take your company to the next level, finding the right private equity firm can be a game-changer. Platforms like Private Equity List offer a streamlined way to connect with investors who align with your business goals and needs.

Sign up today at Private Equity List and find the perfect partner for your business!

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With global perspective (incl. US, EU and UK) and special focus on regions like the Middle East, Africa, Pan-Asia, and Central and Eastern Europe, Private Equity List provides vital info on investors, such as how much they invest, what regions and industries they're interested in, and how to contact key team members. This means you get everything you need to find, check out, and reach out to potential investors for your project. We also pay attention to early stage founders.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is private equity?

Private equity involves investing capital in companies, typically with the goal of improving operational efficiency and generating higher returns. Private equity firms invest in both private and public companies.

How does private equity benefit companies?

Private equity firms offer companies capital, strategic guidance, and operational expertise. This helps businesses grow, enter new markets, and improve efficiency.

What types of companies do private equity firms invest in?

Private equity firms invest in a wide range of sectors, including technology, healthcare, consumer goods, and industrials. The common factor is that these companies typically have strong growth potential.

What is growth equity?

Growth equity is a type of private equity investment where firms invest in companies with proven business models but need additional capital to scale. Unlike buyouts, growth equity investors usually take minority stakes.

How do private equity firms create value?

Private equity firms create value by improving operations, expanding markets, acquiring complementary businesses, and enhancing management teams to unlock the full potential of the companies they invest in.

How can I find the right private equity firm?

Platforms like Private Equity List help connect businesses with relevant investors. By using the platform, you can easily filter through various firms based on your industry, location, and specific needs.