Mesirow Facilitates the Acquisition of College Finance Company by NerdWallet

On March 12, 2026, Mesirow, an independent financial services firm, proudly announced its role in advising Candidly on the successful sale of its subsidiary, College Finance Company, to NerdWallet, Inc. This acquisition marks a notable milestone in the evolution of both companies within the financial services sector.

Founded in 2020 and headquartered in Marblehead, Massachusetts, College Finance stands out as one of the leading platforms connecting borrowers with private student loan offerings from numerous major lenders. Utilizing its sophisticated technology and marketing strategies, the company helps borrowers secure better lending options, thus making higher education financing more accessible.

Bob Lockwood, Managing Director at Mesirow Investment Banking, expressed enthusiasm about the transaction, noting that it represents a significant achievement in the progression of the College Finance platform. Lockwood has extensive experience working alongside the executive team of College Finance over various transactions, demonstrating a strong track record in educational financial services.

Kevin Walker, President and Co-Founder of College Finance, described this sale as an exciting new chapter. Walker emphasized that this move would help advance their mission of simplifying the college funding experience for families. With Mesirow's expertise guiding the transaction, College Finance has found a partner that shares its long-term vision for innovation in education finance.

Candidly, the parent organization, assured clients and partners that their access to the College Finance marketplace would remain uninterrupted. Laurel Taylor, Founder and CEO of Candidly, described the sale as an accelerant, honing the company's focus on a cutting-edge AI platform aimed at enhancing personalized financial guidance at scale. This pivot aligns perfectly with Candidly's mission to assist Americans in overcoming debt, achieving financial wellness, and ultimately, wealth accumulation through personalized digital experiences.

The acquisition of College Finance underscores Mesirow's successful trajectory in the Technology Services sector, showcasing the firm’s commitment to delivering tailored solutions. Over recent years, Mesirow has a commendable history of completing more than 350 transactions, establishing a robust reputation in financial advisory services.

Founded in 1937, Mesirow is not only an independent and employee-owned firm but also one committed to acting as a force for social good. With offices situated around the globe, the firm provides clients with a personalized approach to achieving their financial goals through diverse service capabilities that include Private Capital, Capital Markets, and Advisory Services.

Their efforts have earned them recognition, including multiple accolades from Crain's Chicago Business as one of the Best Places to Work in Chicago, alongside being named among Barron's Top 100 RIA firms. Mesirow's dedication extends beyond simply providing financial services; they aim to invest in what matters—clients, communities, and societal well-being.

In conclusion, this acquisition represents an evolution in the landscape of education finance, bridging innovative technology and strategic advisory work. As College Finance embarks on this new journey with NerdWallet, it promises to offer enhanced solutions for students and families navigating the complexities of funding higher education. For more information on Mesirow, College Finance, or Candidly, please visit their respective websites.