True North Equity

True North Equity (TNE) is an investment firm located in Birmingham, MI. Currently, our main investment focus is in acquiring U.S. based companies that perform Utility Services. Targeted EBITDA levels range from $1M-$10M, although larger opportunities may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Investment from TNE brings business owners liquidity, as well as capital for growth - whether it be organic or through acquisitions. We look to partner with strong management teams focused on the continued growth of the business. Members of management are encouraged to invest alongside TNE, providing the team an opportunity to participate in equity gains during our ownership. Because the partners of TNE take a direct majority ownership stake in our investments, we are not restricted by the typical private equity fund limitations on holding period duration.

We understand the unique challenges that can be involved in the sale of a company. With this in mind, creative transaction structures can be developed with the flexibility to best fit the financial, legal, and tax needs of the shareholders.

If you are a business owner looking to sell your company, or an intermediary representing a seller, please review our Acquisition Criteria to see if your business fits our focus

Our Acquisition Criteria

Acquisition Criteria

Size

EBITDA of $1M-$10M, although smaller and larger opportunities may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Industry

Companies involved in the maintenance, repair, and construction of underground utility lines, with a primary focus on natural gas distribution infrastructure.

Type of Ownership

Only majority equity ownership opportunities will be pursued.

Location

Continental U.S.

Performance

Primarily healthy companies, although underperforming businesses with the opportunity for operational improvement will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Turnarounds will not be considered.

Management Team

TNE strongly prefers situations where the management team continues to run the day-to-day operations, but may also invest in businesses where the management team wishes to leave the company post-acquisition.

Our Team

Team

Managing Partner
Jeff Wigginton founded True North Equity in 2008. At TNE, he is responsible for all phases of the investment process, from deal sourcing and evaluation, to due diligence, negotiations, and securing acquisition financing. Post-investment, Jeff is involved in the operations of the companies, holding both an executive and board level position.
Jeff received his MBA from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business, and BBA from Eastern Michigan University. His interests include golf, reading, and travel - with highlights including scuba diving in Belize, bungee jumping from a bridge in New Zealand, skydiving in Hawaii, visiting the Great Wall of China, traveling the Amazon river basin, and reaching the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro.
Brent joined TNE in 2024. Previously Brent was at BlueWater Equity Partners where he started in 2015 as an associate and became a partner in Fund II in 2019. His responsibilities included analyzing mergers and acquisitions, raising capital, overseeing operations of portfolio companies, financial projections, strategic planning, conducting in-depth due diligence, sitting in various board positions, performing industry and company specific research, maintaining investor relations, and securing financing for acquisitions.
Brent earned his BS with a focus on Economics from Rider University while playing four years on the golf team. In his spare time he enjoys golfing, boating, fishing and spending time with family and friends.

Our Investments

Investments

Current Investments

Exited Investments