Strategic partners, long-term capital for
lower middle market industrial companies
scaling with intention.

“Koru”: a Māori symbol representing growth, renewal, and new beginnings.

Koru Equity Partners is a Charlotte-based private investment firm focused on partnerships to accelerate the growth of B2B industrial & commercial companies over time.

We are business builders and invest in specific markets in which we bring significant investing and operating experience. We look to partner with exceptional teams that have a desire to stay nimble and growth-oriented and seek an experienced, purpose-driven, and active capital partner.

For Owners

Where We Invest

Industry Focus

Industrial, engineered products, aftermarket products & services, manufacturing & distribution, and specialty B2B services where we bring expertise.

Size

Small Businesses in the Lower Middle Market: $1.5m-$8.0m EBITDA.

Situations of Interest

Family and founder-owned businesses, succession planning, management buyouts, retiring owner(s) / majority recapitalizations or full sales.

Location

U.S.-based, preference for businesses east of the Rockies.

Our Investment Criteria

How We Operate

The opportunity to steward small businesses is a great privilege and responsibility. Through our partnerships, we strive to improve the lives of the people we work with and their families. Our operating philosophy is rooted in a set of core values that drive our approach and belief systems.

Growth Mindset

Sustained Grit

Transparency

“Selling my business was a huge decision. From day one, Brian brought trust, transparency, and a true partnership mindset. He honored what we built through the acquisition of our company. Most investors talk about people being important, but Brian lives it. After staying on to run the business for a year after the sale, I transitioned to a board role and continued to see firsthand as he brought fresh ideas, strategic thinking, and a clear plan to help the company thrive in its next chapter.”

Andy Bartels, Owner, Board Member, and Retired CEO, Medical Packaging, Inc.

“We met with a lot of private equity buyers, but Brian understood our business better than all of them. I wasn’t just handing over the keys to the company, I was choosing a steward for my life's work. With Brian, I knew it was in great hands. His humble and thoughtful approach proved to be the ideal fit for the team and for taking the company to the next level.”

Doug Climenhaga, Owner and Retired President, SVI, Inc.

“I've worked with many capital partners over the years, and what sets Brian apart is his consistent approach and long-term view when things get hard. Every business journey has its inflection points...Brian leaned in with confidence and never flinched in those moments, always maintaining full faith in the team and focused on building lasting value.”

Ryan Fibiger, CEO, Frame It Easy

“Brian's leadership of the Rubber Fab acquisition paved the way for one of the most rewarding parts of my career. He brought clarity, strategic insight, and a calm, people-first approach to every challenge. I can’t say enough good things about Brian and would love to partner with him again should the opportunity arise.”

Gary Huether, General Manager, Rubber Fab Gasket & Molding, Inc.

“Throughout the process, Brian stayed consistent, open, and focused on doing right by our team. He’s not just a great investor and business builder, he’s a good human being. He also brought a learner’s mindset to the partnership after the deal closed. He genuinely wanted to understand our business and people so he could be the best possible partner for the company.”

Basile Tzovolos, Co-Founder and Retired CFO, M&B Enterprise LLC

We hustle, we compete, and we care. That’s Koru.
If that sounds like the kind of partner you want, let’s talk

(513) 543-2022

brian@koruequity.com

Strategic partners, long-term capital forlower middle market industrial companiesscaling with intention.