Approach
Closer to local equity than private equity.
Long-term ownership
No fund and no planned exit. One business, owned and grown for decades.
Owner-operated
Ian runs the business day to day. The name, the team and the location are expected to stay.
Straightforward process
Fast, candid feedback on every opportunity. SBA 7(a) financing with buyer equity and seller participation.
Acquisition criteria
What Grange Hall Capital is looking for.
| EBITDA | $500K to $1.5M |
|---|---|
| Industries | Manufacturing, industrial services and specialty trades first. Strong businesses in other industries considered when customers rely on them and can't easily switch. |
| Geography | Wisconsin first, and northern Illinois within driving distance of Milwaukee |
| History | 10+ years in business, with steady profits and repeat customers |
| Situation | Founder ready to step back, experienced team in place |
| Structure | Full or majority purchase, SBA-financed, flexible on transition and seller involvement |
For intermediaries
Brokers, bankers and advisors.
Ian is always glad to meet for coffee or a call, to learn about your practice and the businesses you work with.
Clear criteria
You'll know quickly what fits, so you only spend time on what's worth it.
Fast, candid feedback
Every opportunity gets a clear answer, with a reason on every pass.
Near misses welcome
If it's close to the criteria, send it.
Off-market introductions are paid
A fair success fee at closing, agreed in writing up front.
About
Ian Markolf
Managing Partner
Ian started Grange Hall Capital to acquire and lead one Wisconsin business for the long term. He spent ten years in corporate finance at NOV, Unilever and Kerry, working alongside operations teams and inside the companies NOV acquired.
He grew up in San Antonio and came to Wisconsin for college and basketball. He lives in Milwaukee with his wife, Jaimie, a software engineering leader who has led two post-acquisition integrations, and their two young children.