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Top Chicago Independent Sponsors

Explore 110 Chicago Independent Sponsors that source acquisition and investment opportunities on Axial’s M&A platform.

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Axial Insights

Chicago Independent Sponsors

110

Active Firms

1,689

TTM Deal Inquiries

$5M-$21M

Core Revenue Range

$1M-$4M

Core EBITDA Range

Top Sectors by Activity

Industrials 52%
Healthcare 9%
Transportation 8%
Consumer Goods 8%
Technology 7%

Key Attributes

Focus: Control Investments | Capital Source: Deal-By-Deal Financing | Operating Approach: Scale & Exit

Showing 81-100 of 110 Independent Sponsors

Sorted by recent activity

St. Fulford Holdings

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Seeking to acquire and operate a niche light manufacturing business in the Southeastern region. As an independent sponsor, my target range is $500K to $1.5M in EBITDA. My primary focus is on owner-operator succession scenarios, providing a dedicated exit strategy for founders who want to see their business, employees, and legacy thrive under committed new leadership.

Recent Transactions

This member has no reported closed transactions.

SecondGen Partners

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SecondGen's principals have four decades of experience partnering with and building businesses across many industries. Having grown up around successful blue collar family businesses, and worked alongside a number of skilled operators, our principals understand what it takes and bring world-class business experience and entrepreneurial passion to every partnership.

Recent Transactions

This member has no reported closed transactions.

Mars 2 LLC

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Mars LC is a diversified investor with a strategic focus on acquiring and building organizations to foster sustainable equity value over time. The company has a significant presence in real estate and operating companies, leveraging its expertise to manage and develop projects that align with long-term growth objectives. With a history rooted in environmental remediation and real estate, Mars LC has evolved to encompass a broad portfolio, reflecting its commitment to strategic investments and sustainable development. The firm's approach is characterized by a long-term investment horizon,…

Recent Transactions

This member has no reported closed transactions.

Kevin Coe

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Turn River Strategies is a consulting and investment firm led by a seasoned technology and operations executive. Currently sourcing a first acquisition in professional services, tech-enabled services, or healthcare support businesses. The focus is on U.S.-based companies with $1M to $4M in EBITDA, selectively open to larger opportunities with strong fundamentals and valuation. Capital strategy includes SBA financing, seller notes, and equity partners as appropriate to the deal.

Recent Transactions

This member has no reported closed transactions.

The Black Phoenix Group

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The Black Phoenix Group is a private investment firm that invests in companies located in or near large American cities and their surrounding communities. We are a trust-based organization that helps companies reach their potential, generates exceptional returns for our investors, and positively impacts the communities in which we invest.We partner with a select group of like-minded individuals, families and institutions who bring experience and expertise in order to improve businesses.We build almost perfect alignment with our partners and management teams through investing a significant…

Recent Transactions

This member has no reported closed transactions.

Zeal

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Based in Chicago, Zeal (workwithzeal.com) is run by a team of former technology sales, marketing & operational professionals. The company invests in great businesses ranging from $3-$20 million in revenue and with net margins of 15% or more. Our aim is to bring long-term growth through streamlining and transforming sales & marketing efforts.We do not seek to flip businesses. We own for the long-term and provide business owners with a way to preserve their legacy and continue to improve employees livelihoods. Zeal leverages its management and operational background to bring real value that…

Recent Transactions

This member has no reported closed transactions.

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DuneGlass Capital

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DuneGlass Capital fuels growth through a repeatable private equity playbook.We partner with entrepreneurial founders to unlock the value of your business. We teach you about efficiencies and why they matter to your bottom line, which drives alignment on value creation.We’ve developed a unique platform model – fueled by high-velocity, high-efficiency aggregation and integration – that allows you to capture the future growth of your business.

Recent Transactions

This member has no reported closed transactions.

Fundless Sponsor

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Entrepreneurial Healthcare CEO with a track record of revenue growth. Visionary and strategic leader with deep experience in healthcare product manufacturing and distribution. Consistently builds high-performing teams that focus on customer service and deliver outsized results. Ready to apply technology, manufacturing, and general management background to acquire and grow a well-established business while embracing and respecting its legacy.

Recent Transactions

This member has no reported closed transactions.

STONESHORE INVESTMENT GROUP

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Stoneshore Corporation is a healthcare-focused investment group specializing in the acquisition and scaling of Durable Medical Equipment (DME) companies. Based in Illinois, the company targets respiratory-driven DME platforms, including ventilators, oxygen, and CPAP/BiPAP machines, with a focus on compliance, speed, and patient care. Stoneshore is committed to supporting direct-to-patient delivery as well as hospitals and healthcare systems with essential respiratory equipment. The firm operates on a scalable, performance-driven growth model, aiming to maximize the potential of acquired…

Recent Transactions

This member has no reported closed transactions.

FacilityX Group

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FacilityX Group will execute a roll-up strategy in the facility services space, creating a tech-forward market leader. We are initially looking at cleaning and landscaping businesses as platforms to drive dense & diversified growth.

Recent Transactions

This member has no reported closed transactions.

DZ Partners

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DZ Partners is built around a simple belief: there are great founder-owned businesses in the physical economy that do not need to be reinvented, they need the right partner for the next phase of growth. We bring experience across M&A, consulting, growth strategy, and strategic advisory, and are focused on businesses with strong customer relationships, talented employees, and opportunities for thoughtful, sustainable growth. We are not looking to over-lever a company or force an exit timeline. Instead, we use conservative capital structures, invest behind the employee base through aligned…

Recent Transactions

This member has no reported closed transactions.

Entreprenuer

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I’m actively seeking to acquire a business generating $700k–$1.2M in EBITDA, with a focus on professional services companies located in Illinois and the surrounding North Central region. I’m a committed, ready buyer with a defined investment thesis and the ability to move efficiently when the right opportunity presents itself.Over the past twenty years, I’ve built a successful enterprise sales career—closing more than $40M in service and software revenue and leading teams responsible for delivering complex cybersecurity solutions to Fortune 2000 organizations. Through that work,…

Recent Transactions

This member has no reported closed transactions.

MSBD Capital Management Corp.

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CFO and COO of MSBD Capital. Partner and operator across multiple businesses in the home services sector, actively acquiring and scaling companies within that space and others. Chicago-born and raised, and proud dad of two.

Recent Transactions

This member has no reported closed transactions.

BCG

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I am a disabled veteran passionate about reviving US small and medium businesses while preserving legacy, community, and employee prosperity. Currently, I am seeking to invest in and support operations of production and service-oriented businesses with EBITDA of $500k - $1.5M.

Recent Transactions

This member has no reported closed transactions.

Avra Properties, LLC

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Avra Properties, LLC is a privately held investment company that targets investment opportunities in the following industries: 1)  Food manufacturers showing strong sales and distribution growth, regardless of size. 2)  Experiential industries that have been hit particularly hard by the Covid-19 shut down, including but not limited to: ·     Location-based leisure, amusement, recreation, and entertainment businesses.·     Concert venues ·     Fitness…

Recent Transactions

This member has no reported closed transactions.

HarborWind Partners

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HarborWind Partners is an independent private equity firm specializing in the acquisition of founder-led businesses within the specialty chemicals, niche manufacturing, and industrial B2B sectors. With a focus on the lower middle market, they target companies with proven profitability and established business models, avoiding startups, real estate, and technology sectors. HarborWind Partners is committed to long-term growth strategies, emphasizing buy, build, and compound methodologies to enhance value. Their strategic approach ensures swift responses to investment opportunities, making them…

Recent Transactions

This member has no reported closed transactions.

N2 Growth Partners

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Experienced business leader with P&L responsibility and expertise in operations, business development, sales, and production. Angel investor and start up advisor. Strong entrepreneurial drive. Mechanical Engineering B.Sc. + M.Sc. and MBA from Chicago Booth. German native with US Residency (US citizenship in application)

Recent Transactions

This member has no reported closed transactions.

BCCR Inc

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BCCR Inc is a private investment firm focused on small to medium sized acquisitions. We partner with exceptional companies seeking the next stage of growth. Post acquisition, we work closely with our portfolio companies to drive measurable value for all stakeholders. 

Recent Transactions

This member has no reported closed transactions.

Castle Keep Group, LLC

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Castle Keep Group LLC is a firm that specializes in acquisition, of family businesses. The company is dedicated to empowering business owners during pivotal transitions, helping them achieve their goals while maintaining the integrity and value of their hard work. With a focus on business transition, Castle Keep Group optimizes operations to maximize value and ensure a smooth transition. The firm operates as a limited liability company and providing expertise and support to businesses navigating complex transitions.

Recent Transactions

This member has no reported closed transactions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are Independent Sponsors in this directory ordered?

Firms in the Chicago Independent Sponsors directory are ordered based on recent deal activity on Axial. The default order reflects observed market signals rather than a subjective ranking of firm quality.

What information is included in each Independent Sponsor profile?

Each profile provides information about the firm’s areas of focus, transaction criteria, and relevant activity on Axial’s M&A platform. Together, these details provide a clearer view of where a firm is active and the types of companies and opportunities most relevant for it.

What company sizes are most common for Chicago Independent Sponsors?

Based on activity on Axial’s M&A platform, the core revenue range for Chicago Independent Sponsors is $5M-$21M, with a core EBITDA range of $1M-$4M. Company size can be an important indicator of fit, as firms often concentrate their experience, resources, and transaction activity within particular segments of the market.

How important is location when evaluating Independent Sponsors?

Location can be an important consideration, but it does not necessarily define where a firm is active. Firms based in Chicago may bring regional knowledge, local relationships, and experience with businesses in the area, while many also pursue opportunities across a broader geographic footprint. Geography is best considered alongside sector focus, company size, and relevant transaction activity.

Do all Independent Sponsors in this directory operate exclusively in Chicago?

Not necessarily. A firm’s location does not always define its geographic reach. Many Independent Sponsors based in Chicago are active across multiple regions, while firms based elsewhere may also participate in the Chicago market. Location can provide useful context, but it should not be interpreted as a firm’s geographic boundary.

How do I compare Independent Sponsors in Chicago?

When comparing Independent Sponsors in Chicago, consider factors such as sector focus, size range, and recent transaction activity. These characteristics vary across the 110 firms included in the directory and can help identify firms that align with your needs.

How do I connect with Chicago Independent Sponsors?

Axial can help you identify and connect with firms based on your objectives and what you are looking to accomplish. The process varies depending on your role and transaction needs. If you are interested in connecting with firms in the Chicago Independent Sponsors directory, you can request information here.

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