Blackford Capital

Blackford Capital is a private equity firm headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, focusing on acquiring, managing, and building founder and family-owned, lower middle-market companies. The firm primarily invests in the manufacturing, industrial, and distribution sectors, seeking to create sustainable businesses that honor the legacy of their owners while generating financial returns for investors. Blackford Capital employs a disciplined approach to value creation, emphasizing operational excellence and a compelling culture within its portfolio companies.

The firm's investment strategy centers on taking majority control positions in companies with solid performance and growth potential. Blackford Capital's team leverages experience, insight, and data to generate market-leading returns, aiming to maximize value through strategic operational improvements. The firm has developed 18 platforms and completed approximately 35 add-ons and ten exits overall, with portfolio companies operating across 10 U.S. states, the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico, as well as Ireland, Germany, and China, employing more than 2,000 individuals.

Blackford Capital has been recognized for its achievements, including being named Private Equity Firm of the Year by The M&A Advisor in 2022, 2021, and 2018. Several of its portfolio companies have been included on the Inc. 5000 list, reflecting the firm's commitment to fostering growth and success in its investments.