#United States #Private Equity #Washington D.C. #HCI Equity Partners #Founder-Friendly Investor

HCI Equity Partners: A Leader in Founder-Friendly Investment

In a noteworthy achievement, HCI Equity Partners, a prominent private equity firm specializing in the lower middle market, has earned a spot on Inc.'s esteemed list of Founder-Friendly Investors for the sixth consecutive year. This recognition underscores HCI's commitment to collaborating with founder-led companies.

The 2025 list, published annually by Inc., features a select group of private equity firms, venture capitalists, and lenders known for their dedication to supporting entrepreneurs. The methodology behind this recognition involved a comprehensive survey of the founders who have previously partnered with these firms, providing first-hand insight into their experiences and the impact of collaboration on their business growth.

Doug McCormick, Managing Partner at HCI, expressed his gratitude: "It is a profound honor to be recognized on Inc.'s Founder-Friendly Investors list for the sixth consecutive year. This consistent recognition validates our core strategy of forging collaborative, active partnerships with founders. We are committed to unlocking the full potential of each portfolio company and driving transformational growth through strategic initiatives and acquisitions."

HCI's approach is particularly appreciated by the entrepreneurs they invest in. For instance, Scott Milberg, CEO of ACR, shared, "Partnering with HCI has been a transformative experience for ACR. We've grown from a regional family business into a market leader and trusted partner for our customers. HCI's collaborative approach has enabled us to expand significantly and drive our vision forward." Under HCI's partnership, ACR scaled its operations from a single warehouse to 18 locations across North America, increasing revenue nearly 30-fold and growing its workforce to around 1,000 employees.

With over 90% of HCI's current investments in founder or family-owned businesses, the firm prides itself on understanding their unique needs and aspirations. McCormick added, "What makes this award particularly meaningful is that it stems from the feedback provided by our portfolio company founders. Their trust illustrates our dedication to achieving their success and preserving their legacies."

HCI Equity Partners, headquartered in Washington, D.C., focuses on investing in companies within the distribution, manufacturing, and service sectors. Their philosophy revolves around building strong relationships with founders to support their vision and ensure sustainable growth. For more information, visit www.hciequity.com.

In conclusion, the continued recognition of HCI Equity Partners in the Founder-Friendly Investor list not only highlights the firm’s commitment to nurturing entrepreneurial spirit but also reflects their significant role in shaping the future of private equity investments in founder-led enterprises.