Peterson Partners, a Utah-based investment firm, recently announced the closing of its Fund X, a $265 million private equity fund. This fund will focus on investing $10-25 million in profitable and growth-oriented companies, primarily in the Mountain West region. Peterson Partners emphasizes its commitment to partnering with entrepreneurs and management teams, providing not just capital but also strategic guidance and support.
Peterson Private Equity’s Investment Strategy
Fund X builds on Peterson Private Equity’s two-decade history of investing in companies across various sectors, including software, business services, healthcare, and consumer. The firm leverages its extensive network of CEOs and investors to source deals and gain deep insights into potential investments. This approach allows Peterson Partners to identify promising companies and provide tailored support based on the collective experience of its network.
Brett Stohlton, Partner at Peterson Private Equity, highlighted the firm’s unique approach: “In a world where capital is often a commodity, we find ways to accelerate growth by applying lessons from more than 300 companies and management teams we’ve backed over the years.” This hands-on approach, coupled with the firm’s extensive experience, positions Peterson Partners as a valuable partner for entrepreneurs seeking to scale their businesses.
Fund X’s Initial Investments: A Focus on Growth and Partnership
Fund X plans to make approximately 12 investments and has already invested in three companies:
- Dura Software: A software aggregator focused on acquiring niche B2B SaaS companies.
- Packsize: A provider of sustainable and smart packaging solutions for e-commerce and retailers. This represents a follow-on investment, showcasing Peterson Partners’ long-term commitment to supporting successful companies.
- Kelso: A leading provider of commercial mechanical, electric, and plumbing services. This investment exemplifies Peterson Partners’ focus on partnering with exceptional entrepreneurs and management teams.
Spencer Clawson, Partner at Peterson Private Equity, emphasized the firm’s partnership philosophy through the example of Kelso: “Kelso is a good example of what Peterson Partners is all about: helping an exceptional entrepreneur do the hard work of scaling a business while also maintaining its distinctive culture.” Steve Carroll, CEO of Kelso, echoed this sentiment, stating that Peterson Partners’ track record of supporting entrepreneurs, particularly during challenging times, was a key factor in their decision to partner with the firm.
Peterson Partners: More Than Just Capital
Peterson Partners’ mission extends beyond financial investment. The firm is dedicated to providing long-term support to entrepreneurs and management teams, typically for 5-10 years, acting as a trusted advisor and coach throughout the growth journey. This commitment to building enduring enterprises is a core tenet of Peterson Partners’ investment philosophy.
Peterson Partners manages over $2 billion across Private Equity, Venture Capital, and Search strategies, further demonstrating its breadth of expertise and commitment to the growth of businesses. The firm’s continued success and the closing of Fund X solidify Peterson Partners’ position as a prominent investment firm in Utah and the Mountain West region. Their dedication to fostering entrepreneurial growth and providing more than just capital makes them a sought-after partner for businesses seeking to reach their full potential.
