Forest Lane Capital

Forest Lane Capital is a private investment firm based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, that specializes in control equity investments. The firm is backed by committed family office capital, allowing for a patient, long-term investment horizon free from typical fund life pressures. They focus on partnering with founder-led businesses and second and third-generation family owners within the lower middle market, aiming to accelerate growth through a combination of capital and operational resources.

Founded in 2018 by Joel Pokorney, Forest Lane Capital later combined firms with Booth Park Capital in October 2020, with both entities operating under the Forest Lane Capital name. Joel Pokorney, the Founder and Managing Partner, along with Dan Wingard, who was a Managing Partner at Booth Park Capital, have extensive careers in private equity and investing in lower middle market businesses. This strategic partnership was formed to leverage complementary skill sets and accelerate the growth of their family-office based committed fund.

The firm targets companies with revenues between $5 million and $50 million, EBITDA between $1 million and $5 million, and EBITDA margins greater than 10%. Their investment criteria primarily include businesses in niche manufacturing, value-added distribution, and business services. Notable portfolio companies include Meritech Systems, a leader in automated hand hygiene technology; HTG Supply, an omni-channel retailer and manufacturer of indoor gardening supplies; and ARS Recycling Systems, a global manufacturer of steel abrasive blasting and dust collection equipment.

The Forest Lane Capital team comprises experienced investment professionals and operating partners, including Joel Pokorney, Mike Williamson, Mike Hartley, and Steve Michalski. These team members bring a dynamic mix of pre-close and post-close transaction experience, with operating partners offering specialized domain expertise in areas such as niche manufacturing and sales/revenue growth strategies. Their approach emphasizes active partnership, material personal capital investment, and a commitment to working closely with management teams to drive long-term equity value.