Minnehaha Equity
Minnehaha Equity is an independent sponsor who invests in growing companies in the e-commerce, food/agriculture, industrial and distribution sectors.
Based in the Minneapolis area, we look for companies with sustainable business models, led by passionate and motivated entrepreneurs, and in which our involvement can influence the outcome.
Our Managing Partner has 20+ years experience involved with lower middle market companies, with stints as investor, board member, operator, and advisor.
We would love to meet you and hear your story.
Our namesake, which means “waterfall” in the Dakota language, represents the arduous journey that an entrepreneur must undertake while building a great company.
The Minnehaha Creek emerges from Lake Minnetonka, winds through the Twin Cities with equal parts calm waters and active rapids, over the 53-foot drop of the Minnehaha Falls, before spilling into the Mississippi River and eventually the Atlantic.
Minnehaha Equity exists to guide you safely through the creek, over the falls, and reach your ocean.
What is “Minnehaha”?
Investment Criteria
Company Size
$5-100 MM revenue and $1-10 MM EBITDA ($2-5 MM sweet spot)
Company Characteristics
Growing industry, and/or disruptor within a mature or fragmented industry.
Market leader in its category, with clear differentiation
Strong gross margins (>30%, ideally much higher)
Not subject to fad or tech risk
Industry
E-commerce, food/agriculture, industrial, and distribution
Transaction Type
Growth equity or buyout, majority or minority (preferred equity with governance rights)
Examples: family succession, balance sheet recapitalization, management buyout, fund an add-on acquisition, or carve-out a division from a larger company
Geography
Preference for Midwest U.S., but will selectively pursue companies in other geographies
Portfolio Companies
About Us
David Shuler, Managing Partner
Our founder, David Shuler, is a 20+ year veteran of the lower middle market, having completed stints as a capital provider, independent sponsor, investment banker, and owner/operator. He recently served as interim CEO of portfolio company Snipers Edge Hockey, Inc., and continues to serve as its Senior Advisor.
Prior to launching Minnehaha Equity, David was a partner at a Northstar Capital, a leading junior capital provider for lower middle market transactions with over $2 billion under management.
Earlier in his career, David was an investment banker with Lazard Middle Market and Dougherty & Company.
David earned a BA from the University of Minnesota, and MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
Contact Us
david@minnehahaequity.com
(612) 695-6977
Minneapolis, MN
