The 2025 Independent Sponsor Report captures a pivotal moment in private equity, where independent sponsors are no longer fringe players—they are leading the charge. With stronger deal flow, evolving capital strategies, and increasingly favorable economics, the model has matured into a competitive force. The report draws from 172 sponsor and capital provider responses to reveal how this dynamic segment is navigating market shifts, structuring deals, and building long-term value.
Inside the Report: Key Areas to Explore
Deal Economics: See how independent sponsor compensation structures have evolved over time.
Deal Volume and Strategy: Discover how independent sponsors are targeting much larger enterprises compared to years past and how they successfully source transactions in today's competitive market.
Partnership Dynamics: Learn why collaboration between independent sponsors is rising and what drives success.
Capital Source Shifts: Track the rise of SBIC funds and the continued dominance of family offices in independent sponsor-backed transactions.
