Riverspan Partners

Overview

Riverspan Partners is a Chicago-based private equity firm focused on lower middle-market businesses in the industrials sector, including engineered materials and advanced manufacturing. The firm partners with companies typically generating between $5 million and $35 million in EBITDA, aiming to accelerate growth and build durable, long-term success through commercial excellence, operational improvements, and digital enablement. Founded by John Gilligan and Dave Thomas, Riverspan leverages its deep domain expertise to work closely with management teams, providing strategic, operational, and financial support. The firm's approach emphasizes collaboration and partnership, aligning with its Midwestern roots and values of hard work, respect, creativity, and meaningful collaboration. Riverspan's investment strategy includes sectors such as Chemicals & Materials, Industrial Tech & Engineered Components, Building Products, Industrial Services, and Healthcare Manufacturing. Riverspan's commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations reflects its dedication to corporate responsibility and transparency. The firm fosters a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion, recognizing that an inclusive environment contributes to exceptional outcomes. Recent investments include the acquisition of United Titanium, a manufacturer of specialty alloy fasteners and components, and a strategic investment in POLARIS Laboratories, a leader in fluid analysis testing and reliability services. These investments underscore Riverspan's focus on partnering with companies to drive innovation and growth in the industrials sector.

Investment Focus

• Businesses in the industrials sector with EBITDA between $5 million and $35 million
• Companies seeking strategic transformation, operational improvements, and digital enablement

Portfolio Companies