Periscope Equity Company Profile

Background

Periscope Equity, established in 2013, is a Chicago-based private equity firm specializing in investments in founder-owned, technology-enabled business services companies. The firm focuses on businesses with mission-critical service offerings, a history of sustainable profitability, and clear avenues for accelerated growth. By partnering with management teams, Periscope Equity provides operational and commercial support to drive investment returns.

Key Strategic Focus

Periscope Equity targets lower-middle market companies operating in sectors such as digital marketing, software, security solutions, healthcare technology, and business process automation. The firm emphasizes investments in businesses with distinct growth paths, differentiated service offerings, and strong cash flow generation. By providing financial capital, industry knowledge, and operational expertise, Periscope partners with proven management teams to foster both organic growth and growth through acquisitions.

Financials and Funding

Since its inception, Periscope Equity has made 37 investments and achieved four exits. The firm actively seeks new investment opportunities and is a Registered Investment Adviser (RIA).

Pipeline Development

Periscope Equity's investment portfolio includes companies such as VL OMNI, Commerce12, and eHouse Studio, operating in industries like database software, media and information services, and IT consulting and outsourcing. The firm continues to seek investments in technology-enabled business services companies with clear growth trajectories.

Technological Platform and Innovation

While Periscope Equity does not develop proprietary technologies, it invests in companies that leverage innovative technological platforms and methodologies. The firm's portfolio includes businesses specializing in digital marketing, software development, security solutions, and healthcare technology, all of which utilize advanced technologies to deliver their services.

Leadership Team

Steven Jarmel: Founder and Partner. Steven has been instrumental in establishing Periscope Equity's investment strategy and fostering relationships with portfolio companies.

John Findlay: Partner. John brings extensive experience in private equity investments and works closely with management teams to drive growth.

Eric Hinkle: Principal. Eric focuses on identifying and evaluating new investment opportunities and supporting portfolio companies.

Joe McIlhattan: Principal. Joe plays a key role in deal execution and portfolio management.

Lisa Harkins: Chief Financial Officer & Chief Compliance Officer. Lisa oversees the firm's financial operations and ensures regulatory compliance.

Leadership Changes

As of the latest available information, there have been no recent significant changes or appointments within Periscope Equity's leadership team.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The private equity market, particularly in the technology-enabled business services sector, is highly competitive. Firms seek to invest in companies with strong growth potential, differentiated service offerings, and sustainable profitability.

Competitor Analysis

Periscope Equity's competitors include other private equity firms focusing on technology-enabled business services. While specific competitors are not detailed in the available information, the firm operates in a landscape with numerous players seeking similar investment opportunities.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Periscope Equity collaborates closely with the management teams of its portfolio companies, providing operational and commercial support to drive growth and investment returns.

Operational Insights

Periscope Equity's strategic focus on technology-enabled business services companies with clear growth trajectories and strong cash flow generation positions it competitively in the private equity market. The firm's emphasis on partnering with founder-owned businesses and providing operational support differentiates it from competitors.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Periscope Equity aims to continue identifying and investing in technology-enabled business services companies with distinct growth paths and differentiated service offerings. By leveraging its financial capital, industry knowledge, and operational expertise, the firm seeks to drive growth and deliver strong investment returns.