We are investors, operators, and close friends who first met over 20 years ago in Keough Hall at the University of Notre Dame. We’ve built 39 North to partner with owner-operators who want to retire or develop a growth plan for the future.
We focus on mature, cash-generating businesses that provide durable value to their customers and positively impact their communities. We are proud of the businesses we’ve helped grow and of the value we have created for all stakeholders.
NOT A FUND
We see the private equity model as broken. We structure each partnership as a standalone investment and cannot offset losers with winners. We do well only when your company grows, and our time is spent entirely on value creation rather than fundraising.
OPERATOR MINDSET
Unlike many investors, we are operators that understand what it’s like to be in your shoes. We bring that experience and respect to our partnership to best assist you in achieving your goals. We roll up our sleeves and do whatever it takes to win together.
VALUES MATTER
Capital is not a commodity – money comes with people, and life’s too short to do business with those who don’t share our values.
CAPITAL ALLOCATORS
We prioritize reinvestment, value creation, and the prudent use of debt. We are not financial engineers.
NIMBLE, DRIVEN, AND HUMBLE
Our core team is small. We make quick, well-educated decisions. We work constantly to expand our circle of competence. We discern when and where we can add value, armed with the conviction of a long-term view.
TECH-SENSIBLE
Technology can enable or distract. We employ it to drive efficiencies, not to create bottlenecks.