#United States #Seattle #investment banking #CLA #Meridian Capital

Meridian Capital Expands CLA's Investment Banking Services

On April 1, 2026, CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen LLP), recognized as one of the top professional services firms in the U.S. with a strong international presence, made a significant announcement regarding an exciting development that will reshape its advisory capabilities. The company revealed that the esteemed Meridian Capital team is joining its ranks, creating a new division branded as CLA Meridian Capital. This collaboration aims to broaden the spectrum of investment banking and wealth advisory services offered to clients, reinforcing CLA's dedication to fostering business growth and seamless transitions.

Strategic Expansion of Services

The integration of Meridian Capital marks a vital step in aligning CLA's growth strategy with industry-focused advice. By merging Meridian's specialized knowledge in mergers and acquisitions, capital raising, and strategic advisory with CLA's established strengths in accounting, tax, consulting, and integrated wealth solutions, this new partnership offers clients a far more extensive suite of services that cater to crucial financial moments.

This partnership serves to empower private business owners and investors with comprehensive support during critical financial events. These span from succession planning and business sales to executing large capital transactions and long-term growth initiatives.

Paul Bailey, Chief Growth Officer for CLA, emphasized the importance of a diverse skill set when advising privately held business owners, stating, "They need a team that understands both the detailed financial management of their company and the overarching strategic decisions for its future."

With this new coalition, CLA is set to enhance its capability to assist clients in successfully raising capital, navigating acquisitions, or transitioning their ownership structure with greater confidence.

Enhanced Client Support through Experience

The CLA Meridian Capital team plans to provide clients with access to a well-coordinated group of specialists deeply versed in both industry knowledge and practical experience in financial transactions. This formation will enable the new team to aid business owners in making informed decisions, ensuring their transactions are executed confidently while incorporating wealth planning into their overarching strategy.

The seasoned Meridian Capital team, known for their expertise in advising family-owned and entrepreneur-operated companies, particularly within the middle-market space, brings a well-documented record of navigating complex M&A and financial decisions. Their focus on sectors such as industrials, engineering, consumer goods, and technology complements CLA's broader goal of serving the foundation of the American economy.

Navigating Change and Promise of Collaboration

Brian Murphy, CEO and Managing Director of Meridian Capital, shared insights on the anticipated benefits of this merger: "The middle-market companies we serve often find themselves at crucial stages in growth or ownership changes. With our integration into CLA, we'll be able to envelop our clients with a larger network of specialists ready to assist in preparing for significant transactions and future planning."

As managing principal of investment banking at CLA, Murphy will spearhead the CLA Meridian Capital team and focus on accelerating the growth of investment banking services. He will be supported by Patrick Ringland, who continues to play a leadership role within the newly formed team.

Together, CLA and Meridian aim to furnish clients with a more comprehensive service offering during pivotal moments in their business lifecycle—whether that involves preparing for growth, securing financing, pursuing acquisitions, or facilitating business sales.

About CLA and Meridian Capital

CLA operates with a vision to create unmatched opportunities for clients and communities via its industry-focused wealth advisory, digital, tax, audit, consulting, and outsourcing services. With nearly 9,300 professionals across over 120 locations, the firm prides itself on its unique approach to client engagement—the axiom being, "we promise to know you and help you."

Meanwhile, Meridian Capital, with its impressive heritage of serving the middle-market for over three decades, is revered for its industry insights and bespoke service approach. Offering tailored support to navigate the financial spheres of various sectors, Meridian capitalizes on a results-driven philosophy that emphasizes execution from start to finish.

In summary, the merger of Meridian Capital with CLA transmutes the investment banking landscape, setting the stage for innovative growth and client-centric financial solutions.