Ironbridge Equity Partners

About

Ironbridge is a Toronto-based private equity firm with more than $700 million of assets under management focused exclusively on investing in companies in the Canadian lower middle-market. We focus on traditional industry businesses in the manufacturing, distribution, consumer products and services, and business products and services spaces. We recognize that growing mid-sized companies requires far more than money: we leverage our operating skills, diverse industry experiences and extensive network to drive value and accelerate growth in our portfolio companies.

Our Philosophy
Invest in people we trust:
We strive to conduct our business at all times with honesty and integrity, and expect the same of our partners.
Invest where our experience matters:
When both capital and operating expertise are required to optimize results, we can partner with management to build businesses that are equipped for long-term success.
Invest in businesses we understand:
We do not take research, development or technology risks with products that are core to financial performance.
Use leverage prudently:
Debt is essential to an efficient capital structure but we avoid excessive leverage.

Source: Ironbridge Equity Partners

Strategy

Investment Criteria
Lower middle-market focus:
Deal sizes generally between $25 and $125 million.
Equity investments from $15 to $50 million.
Capital required to facilitate management buyouts, growth, acquisitions or restructurings.
Control investors.
Investment horizon generally of five to seven years.
Willing to consider financial and operating restructurings where a strong core business exists.

Companies with:
Core management team that is motivated to stay and invest; able to bridge management transition using Ironbridge resources as required.
History of positive earnings and EBITDA of $5 to $20 million per year.
Strong competitive position within their industry or niche.
Opportunities to grow revenue and improve earnings either organically or through acquisitions.
High returns available for incremental capital investment.

Sector focus:
Broad sector focus including manufacturing, distribution, consumer products and services, and business products and services. We do not invest in the real estate, natural resources, fashion or technology sectors.

Geographic focus:
Canada.

Source: Ironbridge Equity Partners