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Silva Capital Solutions Facilitates OneDigital's Acquisition of Propel HR

In a milestone event for the Professional Employer Organization (PEO) sector, Silva Capital Solutions, Inc. (SCS) successfully served as the exclusive sell-side advisor for Propel HR during its acquisition by OneDigital PEO. This transaction, which finalized in January 2026, is notable not only for its financial implications but also for what it represents for the broader HR outsourcing industry.

Founded in 1996 and headquartered in Greenville, South Carolina, Propel HR is an IRS-Certified Professional Employer Organization that has become a trusted partner for small and mid-sized employers across the United States. With operations spanning 49 states, Propel HR specializes in a range of HR solutions, including full-service PEO, payroll services, and other human resources offerings.

The acquisition marks OneDigital's strategic expansion into South Carolina, enhancing its portfolio of employee benefits and HR services. Before this move, OneDigital operated multiple service lines but lacked a PEO presence in the state. The company is focused on merging with founder-led businesses that have solid operational frameworks, making Propel HR an ideal match.

The Role of Silva Capital Solutions

As an established mergers and acquisitions advisory firm with a focus on the PEO and HR outsourcing industry, Silva Capital Solutions provided comprehensive support to Propel HR throughout the transaction process. Their assistance included everything from initial valuation and positioning to diligence management and negotiation strategies. In doing so, Silva Capital ensured that the Propel HR team could concentrate on their core business operations while handling a complex acquisition.

Lee Yarborough, President of Propel HR, spoke about the family-oriented values ingrained in their business approach. He emphasized the importance of choosing an advisor who understood these values, stating, "When we decided to sell, we chose Silva Capital because we trusted them to represent those values. Wanda and Scott were with us every step of the way, ensuring the outcome was right not just financially, but for our clients, employees, and the legacy we worked so hard to build."

Ted Crawford, President of OneDigital PEO, added, "The most successful exits aren't engineered at the end; they’re built over time. It’s crucial for business owners to prepare adequately for significant transitions. The right M&A advisor plays a pivotal role in helping business leaders achieve favorable outcomes."

Implications for the PEO Market

This acquisition is particularly significant in the current competitive landscape of HR services. Propel HR's solid foundation and operational strengths made it an excellent target for OneDigital, which seeks to enhance its service offerings and clientele. As Crawford pointed out, having clarity on what buyers will require well before a deal is on the table can save time and resources, often leading to a more favorable sale.

Wanda Silva, President of SCS, reflected on the strategic importance of this acquisition: "Our role was to help translate Propel HR's robust foundation into a market-ready narrative and to connect them with a compatible long-term partner. OneDigital is a fantastic fit for them, and the success of this deal illustrates the quality of what the Propel HR team has achieved over the years."

Company Profiles

About OneDigital

Founded in 2000, OneDigital is a prominent force in the insurance brokerage and financial services landscape, well-regarded for its client-first culture. With a reach that covers over 100,000 employers and millions of individuals, they offer personalized, tech-enabled solutions that encompass health, financial security, and efficient workforce management. More details can be found at onedigital.com.

About Propel HR

Established by Braxton Cutchin and led by President Lee Yarborough, Propel HR has become a pivotal player in the PEO landscape. As an IRS-Certified Professional Employer Organization, they provide comprehensive HR services catering to the diverse needs of small and mid-sized enterprises. For further information, visit propelhr.com.

About Silva Capital Solutions, Inc.

Founded in 1998, Silva Capital Solutions has carved a niche for itself in the M&A landscape, particularly within the PEO and HR outsourcing sectors. With nearly three decades of experience, SCS specializes in delivering exceptional advisory services—from business valuations and strategic positioning to comprehensive deal execution. For more on their offerings, visit silvacapital.com.