Embedded Files
MONTREAL, QC - MAGNUM Capital Partners (MAGNUM), Canada's first women-led private equity fund focused on the search fund model, is pleased to announce the addition of several new limited partners to Magnum Capital Fund I. This includes a significant $2 million investment from the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC), through its Thrive Entrepreneurship through Acquisition Fund (Thrive ETA Fund), marking BDC's first investment in the search fund asset class.
Joining Forces with BDC
Working with BDC represents a major milestone for both MAGNUM and the search fund model in Canada. BDC's investment through the Thrive ETA Fund signals a strong vote of confidence in this emerging asset class and its potential to address the critical issue of business succession. This collaboration will provide crucial support to aspiring entrepreneurs, who are seeking to acquire and lead established Canadian businesses.
"We are thrilled to partner with a pioneering firm like MAGNUM," said Sévrine Labelle, Managing Director, Thrive Lab & Thrive ETA Fund, BDC. “We believe the search fund model offers a powerful pathway to entrepreneurship and we are proud to make our first investment in this asset class with a firm led by a trailblazing woman who knows firsthand the challenges and opportunities of being a search fund entrepreneur. We launched our Thrive ETA Fund last month to accelerate business acquisitions by women entrepreneurs. Supporting the growing wave of business ownership transitions is part of our mission as Canada’s development bank.”
Introducing the Search Fund Model to Quebec
The search fund model, while well-established in other markets, is a relatively new concept in Quebec. It offers a unique opportunity for talented entrepreneurs to step into leadership roles by acquiring existing businesses with a proven track record. The growing interest and validation of this model within the province is highlighted by the addition of prominent Quebec-based entrepreneurs Patrick Pérus through his firm Capital d’Expérience, and Éric Lemieux via his family office, Eclo Investissements as new limited partners.
According to Repreneuriat Québec, 9 700 private businesses intend to transfer ownership of their business in the next 12 months. "The search fund model provides a vital solution to the succession crisis facing many Quebec businesses," explained Patricia Riopel, Founding Partner at MAGNUM. "It empowers the next generation of leaders to build upon the legacy of successful companies, ensuring their continued growth and contribution to the Quebec economy. The support from seasoned entrepreneurs like Patrick and Éric is a testament to the model's potential. Our goal is to demystify this path to entrepreneurship."
About MAGNUM Capital Partners
MAGNUM Capital Partners is a private equity firm specializing in the lower mid-market through the search fund model. Founded by successful entrepreneurs Patricia Riopel and Enrico Magnani, MAGNUM launched its inaugural fund in 2025 to support the next generation of entrepreneurs in acquiring established businesses with succession issues. The firm leverages its direct experience and deep network within the search fund community to create significant value for both its investors and entrepreneurs.
To learn more about Magnum Capital Fund I, please visit www.magnumcp.com or contact us.
Page updated
Report abuse