Sequoya Borgman: Founder and CEO of Borgman Capital
Podcast: The Investor With Joel PalathinkalPublished On: Mon Aug 03 2026
Description: In this episode of the Investor Podcast, we sit down with Sequoia Borgman, founder and CEO of Borgman Capital, to discuss his transition from public accounting to leading a successful lower middle-market private equity firm. Drawing from nearly two decades of transaction experience at global accounting giants like Arthur Andersen, KPMG, and RSM, Sequoia shares how his CPA background drives a conservative, value-investing approach focused on established, cash-flowing family and entrepreneur-led businesses. The conversation dives deep into:Targeting the Lower Middle Market: Why Borgman Capital focuses on older industrial, manufacturing, distribution, and food packaging companies generating $4 million to $8 million in EBITDA, avoiding the hyper-competitive auction processes seen in larger tranches. Value Creation & Professionalization: Managing the transition risk from founder-led operations to professional management teams, introducing modern systems, and aligning incentives with sellers who retain skin in the game. The Role of AI & Robotics in Industrials: Evaluating the pragmatic adoption of AI tools for back-office streamlining and deal screening, while analyzing why physical AI, robotics, and automation take longer to yield direct investment returns in traditional manufacturing environments. Sourcing & IC Discipline: How Borgman Capital screens over 1,500 opportunities annually by leveraging a distributed regional network, buy-side outreach, and strong local relationships to find deals with a high probability of closing. Sequoia wraps up with a fundamental piece of business and life advice: "Do what you say you're going to do. Do the right thing." #PrivateEquity #LowerMiddleMarket #Manufacturing #DealSourcing #MNA #ValueInvesting #BorgmanCapital #BuyoutStrategies
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