#USA #Food Security #Salinas #PHT Investment #Jim White

PHT Investment Group Launches New Fund

Introduction

On August 22, 2025, PHT Investment Group, LLC announced the establishment of its inaugural private investment fund, the PHT Growth Fund, LP. With an impressive target size of $500 million, this fund is designed to revolutionize the post-harvest fresh produce supply chain across the United States. It aims to attract a diverse pool of investors, including affluent individuals, family offices, and institutional backers, interested in sustainable food infrastructure and projects yielding impactful returns.

The Vision Behind the Fund

Under the leadership of Jim White, PhD, the founder and CEO of PHT, the company has demonstrated remarkable financial success, achieving a staggering 247% revenue growth and 220% EBITDA growth from 2017 to 2024—all accomplished without external capital. This noteworthy track record provides a solid foundation for expanding into vital areas such as pre-cooling, cold storage, logistics, and cutting-edge technologies like IoT and AI-driven optimization.

Investor Value Proposition

PHT Growth Fund offers an attractive investment proposition characterized by several key aspects:

• - Lucrative Returns: The fund targets an internal rate of return (IRR) between 20% and 25%, with a multiple on invested capital (MOIC) ranging from 2.5 to 3.0x.
• - Stability in Resilient Sector: Focusing on food security, the fund emphasizes environmental, social, and governance (ESG) impacts while modernizing essential infrastructure—an increasingly relevant concern.
• - Strategic Expansion Hubs: Investors will gain exposure to pivotal locations such as Salinas, CA; Yuma, AZ; Pharr, TX; Savannah, GA; and Nogales, AZ—regions crucial for fresh produce supply.

Exclusive Anchor Investor Opportunity

The fund presents unique opportunities for anchor investors who commit between $50 million and $100 million for the initial closing. These key investors will enjoy preferential terms, including:

• - Reduced Management Fees: A lowered management fee of 1.25% as compared to the typical 2% rate.
• - Concessions on Carried Interest: A reduced carry at 12.5% against the standard 20%.
• - GP Participation: A 20% share of general partner economics for seven years, with a buyback at 2.5x.
• - Priority Co-Investment Rights: The opportunity to co-invest at cost without extra fees.
• - Governance Rights: Participation in the LP Advisory Committee, providing input on ESG/impact matters.
• - Recognition as Founding Investors: An opportunity to be acknowledged as a leader in the sector.

Jim White's Vision

Highlighting the objectives behind this initiative, Jim White stated, "Our inaugural fund is not solely an investment vehicle; it's a platform aimed at reducing food waste while bringing modernization to infrastructure and generating enduring value for investors and communities alike."

Fund Terms

Here are the key terms pertaining to PHT Growth Fund:

• - Target Size: $500 million
• - First Close Commitment: $50–$100 million from anchor LPs
• - Minimum Investment: $2 million
• - Standard Fee Structure: A 2% management fee and 20% carry.

Conclusion

PHT Investment Group's newest fund marks an ambitious undertaking to improve the post-harvest supply ecosystem and ensure food security in a rapidly changing market. As investors seek sustainable opportunities, they are invited to join a movement that not only promises robust financial returns but also fosters positive community impacts. With its robust leadership and vision, PHT Growth Fund hopes to lead the way in innovating the U.S. fresh produce landscape.