Lightview Capital is proud to be named to Inc.'s 2026 Founder-Friendly Investors list for the fourth consecutive year. The list recognizes 294 private equity firms, venture capital firms, and lenders with a track record of supporting founder-led companies.
"Founders are looking for more than just capital from their investors. They want true partners," says Bonny Ghosh, editorial director at Inc.
Since its inception in 2012, Lightview has built a track record of partnering with founders and management teams across mission-critical business services in North America. The firm has completed more than 30 transactions, 97% of which involved founder- or owner-led companies.
"Being named to Inc.'s Founder-Friendly Investors list for the fourth consecutive year is especially meaningful because it reflects the trust founders place in us," said Stan Bikulege, Principal at Lightview Capital. "We're grateful to the founders and management teams we work alongside, and we remain committed to helping them grow, preserving what makes their businesses unique, and collectively sharing in the wins.".
To compile the list, Inc. surveyed entrepreneurs who have sold to private equity, venture capital, and debt firms. Founders shared their experiences and information about how their companies performed during those partnerships.
To view the complete list of 2026 Founder-Friendly Investors, visit Inc.com.
About the Founder-Friendly Investors List
Introduced in 2019, Inc.’s Founder-Friendly Investors list has become a resource for entrepreneurs seeking growth partners who align with their vision and values. The list recognizes firms that take a collaborative approach to investing and support founder-led businesses as they navigate the next phase of growth.
About Inc.
Inc. is the world’s most trusted business-media brand, providing entrepreneurs with the knowledge, tools, and community they need to build great companies. Its award-winning content reaches more than 50 million people each month across digital, social, print, newsletters, and events. Since 1982, its prestigious Inc. 5000 list has celebrated America’s fastest-growing privately held companies. For more information, visit inc.com.
About Lightview Capital
Lightview Capital is a leading private equity firm focused on providing its portfolio companies with deep industry expertise, operational insight, and active resources to unlock growth and drive long-term value. The firm’s approachable investment style combines operational and financial experience with an entrepreneurial mindset that delivers measurable results.
For more information, visit lightviewcapital.com.