Populous Announces Partnership with Providence Equity Partners to Drive Global Growth

Populous, a leading architectural and design firm specializing in sports and entertainment venues, has announced a strategic minority investment from Providence Equity Partners. Providence is a premier private equity firm known for its investments in media, communications, education, and technology companies. The investment, subject to regulatory approvals, is expected to support Populous' growth and expansion efforts.

With over 35 years of experience, Populous has designed iconic sports facilities, arenas, convention centers, and airports worldwide. The company's impressive portfolio includes renowned projects such as Yankee Stadium in New York, Wembley Stadium in London, Stadium Australia, and multiple Olympic and Paralympic Games venues. Populous' expertise in creating exceptional experiences for fans and communities has earned it a stellar reputation in the industry.

Earl Santee, Populous Global Chair, expressed his confidence in the partnership, stating that it will enable the integration and expansion of their global business. He highlighted Providence's track record in supporting businesses that deliver world-class events and experiences as a key factor in their decision. Santee emphasized that while embracing growth opportunities, Populous will maintain its core values and culture.

Scott Marimow, a Managing Director at Providence, commended Populous' outstanding portfolio and differentiated business model. He emphasized the company's strong positioning for sustainable growth, supported by increasing consumer demand for live entertainment and infrastructure investment by venue owners. Marimow further stated that Providence's industry expertise will contribute to Populous' next phase of expansion.

Providence's Chief Investment Officer, Michael Dominguez, shared his excitement about the investment aligning with the firm's focus on sports, entertainment, and live events businesses. Dominguez expressed their commitment to leveraging Providence's industry expertise to support Populous' growth ambitions.

The partnership between Populous and Providence will enable the company to broaden its reach and capture both organic and inorganic growth opportunities globally. Populous aims to continue delivering innovative and exceptional architectural and design solutions while maximizing its impact in the industry.

The investment transaction was facilitated by Fortitude Advisors as the lead investment banker and Arma Partners as the co-advisor. Legal advisory services were provided by Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP for Populous and Kirkland & Ellis LLP for Providence. PwC offered human resource and tax advisory services to Populous, ensuring a comprehensive approach to the transaction.

About Populous:

Populous Holdings, Inc. is a global architectural and design firm with a mission centered around creating spaces and events that prioritize joy and human connection. The company, with over 1,000 employees across four continents, offers a range of services beyond architecture, including interior design, event planning, and sustainable design consulting. Recognized as the most innovative company in architecture by Fast Company in 2022, Populous has successfully undertaken over 3,000 projects worldwide. For more information, visit populous.com.

About Providence Equity Partners:

Providence Equity Partners is a specialized private equity investment firm focusing on growth-oriented companies in media, communications, education, and technology sectors across North America and Europe. With a partnership approach to investing and deep industry expertise, Providence helps management teams build exceptional businesses and generate attractive returns. Having invested over $35 billion in more than 170 private equity portfolio companies since its inception in 1989, Providence has established itself as a trusted investor in the industry. Headquartered in Providence, RI, the firm also maintains offices in New York, London, Boston, and Atlanta. To learn more, visit provequity.com.

In conclusion, the partnership between Populous and Providence Equity Partners marks an exciting development for the architectural and design firm. With the support of Providence's investment and expertise, Populous is poised for continued global growth and the creation of groundbreaking experiences for sports and entertainment enthusiasts worldwide.