Gridiron Capital

Gridiron Capital is a relationship-driven investment firm focused on generating long-term value and growing resilient businesses across the middle market. The firm employs a thematic, sector-focused approach, identifying sub-sectors and business models where it possesses deep expertise. Gridiron Capital's investment strategy leverages extensive sector knowledge and repeatable processes to build customized growth strategies, aiming to transform growing companies into industry leaders.

Founded in 2005 by Thomas Burger, Donald Cihak, and Eugene Conese, Gridiron Capital was established by a trio with both operating and transactional experience. The firm's culture and investment approach are rooted in the first-hand experience of its team, many of whom are former entrepreneurs and business operators. This background allows Gridiron Capital to partner effectively with founders, entrepreneurs, and management teams, fostering a shared strategic vision and providing personalized resources to drive growth.

Gridiron Capital invests across business services, consumer products & services, and industrial growth sectors. Its diverse portfolio includes companies such as Greenix (pest control), ABC Legal Services (service of process and court filing solutions), Leaf Home (direct-to-consumer home solutions, which acquired Erie Home), The Lattice Companies (commerce enablement platform), M&D Distributors (heavy-duty vehicle aftermarket parts), Health Monitor Network, and Vertical Supply Group (at-height safety). The firm focuses on buyouts, founder recapitalizations, and corporate divestitures, targeting companies with enterprise values of $150+ million for platform investments.

The team at Gridiron Capital comprises experienced investment professionals and operating experts who bring decades of insight and operating know-how to small and mid-sized businesses. They emphasize a collaborative approach, working alongside management teams to enhance their capabilities and execute growth strategies. The firm's commitment to its values of hard work, honesty, perseverance, and a deep desire to win is passionately shared across the organization, contributing to its success in building and scaling businesses.