Sponsor Finance

Relationship banking for private equity firms
  • Partner with experienced lower middle market lenders.
  • Grow with our tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of private equity sponsors.
  • Strategize with a team of acquisition financing experts.

First Bank’s Sponsor Finance Group partners with private equity firms, mezzanine lenders, and other capital providers.

We offer value-added expertise that supports acquisitions, growth capital, working capital, recapitalizations, and refinancing.

As a family-owned business with over 100 years of independent, single-family ownership, First Bank understands the investment, stability, and planning that businesses require to realize their full value. Our commitment to you doesn’t end at the close of your transaction.

Who Are Our Sponsor Finance Borrowers?

  • U.S.-based companies with EBITDA greater than $2MM
  • Diverse range of industries
  • Non-cyclical, defensive market positions
  • Stable cash flow with EBITDA margin exceeding 10%

Why Partner with First Bank’s Sponsor Finance Group?

  • Work with a dedicated relationship management team with a flat organizational structure, allowing for a streamlined credit process with quick decisions and turnaround.
  • Take advantage of our seamless deal execution and responsiveness as First Bank’s team of Sponsor Finance professionals serve as your single point of contact through the life of your investment.   
  • Benefit from our deep expertise in structuring credit facilities (up to $25 million) tailored to the unique needs of the sponsor and portfolio company, including revolving lines of credit, term loans, capex loans, and real estate.  
  • Capitalize on First Bank’s full range of deposit and treasury management solutions to help improve cash flow management and reduce cost.
  • Discover how our valued Small Business Investment Company (SBIC) investment relationships enhance connectivity within the broader M&A community and improve market knowledge.

Connect with the Sponsor Finance Team

Contact us to learn how First Bank Sponsor Finance can be your senior lending partner for private equity backed portfolio companies.
Paul Spearing

Paul Spearing

SVP, Sponsor Finance - Midwest
Matt Kappadakunnel, CFA

Matt Kappadakunnel, CFA

SVP, Sponsor Finance - West
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