Montage Partners has been named to Inc.'s Founder-Friendly Investors list for the sixth consecutive year, according to an October 28 statement. This year's list recognizes 294 private equity firms, venture capital firms, and lenders that have demonstrated track records of supporting founder-led companies.
The recognition follows several notable transactions for the firm. In 2025, Montage Partners exited investments in Equity Methods and Puroflux. The firm also previously received PE Hub's Deal of the Year award (North America Small-Cap) for its 2024 exit of Southwest Data Products. In January 2026, the firm announced the sale of Advantco, an integration software company based in Charlotte, to Argano. Additionally, in May, the firm invested in Lighten Up, a Los Angeles-based provider of lighting design and technical production, alongside founder Nathan Megaw.
Jordan Tate, co-Managing Partner of Montage Partners, said that being on the list for six years is significant because the recognition comes from founders. Tate noted that founders are the ones who observe the firm's performance when difficult decisions arise long after a deal closes. Rob Wolfman, co-Managing Partner of Montage Partners, stated that founder-friendly support can vary by company, citing the leadership transition support provided for Advantco and the focus on preserving culture for Lighten Up.
Founded in 2004, Montage Partners manages $80 million in capital and has invested in more than 20 founder-led businesses. The firm operates through its Montage Accelerate™ program, which provides support in strategy, marketing, operations, recruiting, and M&A to companies in the lower middle market. The firm targets companies in the technology, professional services, healthcare, industrial products and services, and consumer sectors with EBITDA between $1.5 million and $7 million.
To compile the list, Inc. surveyed entrepreneurs who have sold to private equity or venture capital firms. These founders completed questionnaires regarding their experiences and company performance during their partnerships with various firms.
