Privateer Holdings

Privateer Holdings logo

Privateer Holdings is a private equity firm based in Seattle, Washington. The company was founded in 2010 by Brendan Kennedy, Christian Groh, and Michael Blue. Privateer Holdings is known for its investments in the legal cannabis industry, making it one of the first private equity firms to focus exclusively on this sector.

History[edit | edit source]

Privateer Holdings was established in 2010 with the goal of capitalizing on the emerging legal cannabis market. The founders, Brendan Kennedy, Christian Groh, and Michael Blue, saw an opportunity to create a portfolio of companies that would shape the future of the cannabis industry. The firm raised its initial capital from a variety of investors, including high-net-worth individuals and institutional investors.

Investments[edit | edit source]

Privateer Holdings has made several notable investments in the cannabis industry:

Leafly: Acquired in 2011, Leafly is a popular online resource for cannabis consumers, providing information on strains, products, and dispensaries.
Tilray: Founded in 2013, Tilray is a global leader in the research, cultivation, production, and distribution of medical cannabis and cannabinoids.
Marley Natural: Launched in 2016, Marley Natural is a premium cannabis brand inspired by the legacy of Bob Marley.
The Goodship Company: Acquired in 2017, The Goodship Company is a producer of cannabis-infused edibles.

Business Model[edit | edit source]

Privateer Holdings operates as a private equity firm, raising capital from investors and deploying it into promising cannabis-related businesses. The firm provides strategic guidance, operational support, and access to capital to help its portfolio companies grow and succeed in the competitive cannabis market.

Impact on the Cannabis Industry[edit | edit source]

Privateer Holdings has played a significant role in legitimizing and professionalizing the cannabis industry. By investing in reputable companies and promoting best practices, the firm has helped to change public perception of cannabis and pave the way for broader legalization efforts.