Banneker Partners

Banneker Partners is a private equity firm that focuses on making control investments in enterprise software companies. Founded in 2010 by Stephen Davis, the firm is based in San Francisco, California. Davis, the founder and managing partner, has a background in both technology operations and investment, having previously worked at the Gores Group and Bain & Company.

The firm primarily targets lower middle-market, growth-oriented software businesses. Banneker Partners employs a strategy of acquiring majority ownership in these companies, often taking them private to foster long-term, sustainable growth without the pressures of quarterly market expectations. Their investment thesis is built on a buy-and-build approach, where they partner with management teams to drive organic growth and execute strategic acquisitions.

Banneker's portfolio consists of businesses in various software-as-a-service (SaaS) and software sectors. The firm's operational expertise is a key differentiator, as they provide hands-on support to their portfolio companies to improve product development, sales and marketing strategies, and overall operational efficiency. This collaborative approach aims to create substantial value for the companies they invest in over the long term. The firm has successfully raised multiple funds, including a $350 million fund in 2020.

Keywords: private equity, enterprise software, software investment, buy-and-build, control investments, growth equity, SaaS, take-private, middle-market, operational expertise