Blackford Capital (Blackford), a leading lower middle market private equity firm based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, announced today that it has entered into a partnership with New 2ND Capital (New 2ND), a GP-led secondaries specialist focused on the North American middle market, to support select Blackford portfolio companies.
The partnership includes $130 million in commitments to five existing Blackford portfolio companies: Automation Control Group, Burgaflex, Habco Partnership, Inc., Security Fire Systems, and Texas Injection Molding.
The additional capital will support continued growth and value creation across the portfolio while extending Blackford’s ability to execute its disciplined buy-and-build strategy.
“I’m proud of the team and our partners in coming together to secure institutional investments that set a new milestone as a firm. The commitments we have received for these portfolio companies validate our investment strategies, highlight the strength of our portfolio, and offer a strong endorsement of our track record of building stronger businesses and creating lasting value,” said Martin Stein, Founder and Managing Director of Blackford Capital
“We are excited to build this partnership with the Blackford team, and we look forward to being part of the continued success story of the franchise,” said Clay Cole, Partner at New 2ND Capital.
“The portfolio is composed of promising businesses in attractive sectors, and we are enthusiastic about providing capital to fuel the companies in their next phase of growth,” said Jack Shay, Principal at New 2ND Capital.
“We are proud to have partnered with Blackford Capital and New 2ND Capital on this transaction. This bespoke solution reflects Blackford’s conviction in its portfolio of US-based manufacturing businesses, while providing the capital and additional runway to support their next phase of value creation,” said Dan Farooqi, Partner at FirstPoint Equity.
New 2ND anchored the transaction. FirstPoint Equity served as placement agent, Grant Thornton served as tax advisor, McGuireWoods served as partnership legal counsel, Varnum LLP served as portfolio company counsel, and Ropes & Gray LLP served as legal counsel to New 2ND Capital.
About Blackford Capital
Blackford Capital is a private equity investment firm headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Founded in 2010 by Martin Stein, the firm focuses on majority-control investments in lower-middle-market manufacturing, industrial, distribution, and service companies with revenues typically between $20 million and $200 million. For more information, visit blackfordcapital.com.
About New 2ND Capital
New 2ND is a specialist in middle-market GP-led secondaries transactions in the U.S., creating flexible solutions to address the liquidity, capital, and strategic needs of a wide range of private equity managers and investors. As of December 31, 2025, New 2ND had $2.6 billion of assets under management. For more information, please visit new2ndcapital.com.
