RedBird Capital Partners Winner
In a climate where most firms are delaying their IPOs, RedBird Capital Partners is recognized for its unique structure that allows for a longer buy-and-hold strategy than other private equity firms. Founded in 2014 by Gerry Cardinale, its portfolio of 19 companies specializes in sports/leisure/hospitality, communications infrastructure, energy and industrials and opportunistic investments. The firm is oriented toward long-term partnerships and success-based investing alongside founders, entrepreneurs and family offices.

2019 has been an active year for Redbird with several new investments in the portfolio, including the YES Network alongside the New York Yankees. In October, RedBird and Reverence Capital Partners acquired Vida Capital, Inc., an asset management platform specializing in non-correlated investment strategies. In November, it partnered with NFL Players Association and the MLB Players Association to launch OneTeam Partners, a firm to help athletes maximize revenue from their names and images and representation in video games.

Private Equity Finalists

• Advent International

• Atlas Venture

• Bain Capital

• Brightstar Capital Partners

• New Mountain Capital