Southern Ute Indian Tribe Growth Fund Expands with Kava Equity Partners and New Hires

The Southern Ute Indian Tribe Growth Fund has announced the launch of its new business subsidiary, Kava Equity Partners. This move is part of the Tribe's efforts to grow and diversify its investments by seeking private equity opportunities in lower middle market companies. Kava Equity Partners will focus on partnering with businesses that align with the Tribe's cultural, environmental, and economic values.

The announcement was made by Growth Fund Executive Director, Mr. Shane Seibel, who expressed excitement about the investment opportunities that Kava Equity Partners will bring to the Tribe's portfolio. The name "Kava" holds significant meaning for the Tribe, as it is the Ute word for horse. The horse has historically played a vital role in the Tribe's exploration and resource expansion, symbolizing the values of partnership, reliability, and independence.

In addition to the launch of Kava Equity Partners, the Growth Fund has also made two key hires. Mr. Peter Shepard has joined as the Assistant Operating Director of the Growth Fund, overseeing the GF Properties Group, LLC, which manages a diverse real estate portfolio. Mr. James Dudley has been appointed as the Managing Director of Kava Equity Partners, responsible for sourcing and closing private equity investments.

Mr. Shepard brings a wealth of experience to the team, having previously served as COO and CFO of Walker & Dunlop Investment Partners, a Denver-based real estate private equity firm. He has also founded and led successful companies in the finance and consultancy sectors. Mr. Dudley, on the other hand, has a strong background in venture capital and private equity, having invested in various industries, including information technology and consumer products.

The addition of these key hires is expected to bolster the Growth Fund's investment activities and further accelerate its real estate and direct private equity investments. Mr. Shepard expressed his enthusiasm about joining the Growth Fund, emphasizing the Tribe's mission to grow its economic prosperity. He looks forward to building upon the Tribe's successful investment portfolio with the help of the exceptional team.

Mr. Dudley's experience in private markets investing, specifically in early-stage venture capital and growth equity, will be invaluable to Kava Equity Partners. His knowledge and relationships in the industry will allow the subsidiary to leverage strategic opportunities and fuel its growth.

The Southern Ute Indian Tribe has a rich history as the oldest continuous residents of what is now Colorado. In the 1950s, the Tribe discovered natural gas on its reservation, leading to the creation of its gas production company and the subsequent growth and diversification of its holdings. Today, the Tribe is the largest employer in La Plata County, Colorado, with a thriving investment portfolio spanning multiple industries and locations.

The Southern Ute Indian Tribe Growth Fund was established in the late 1990s and manages the business investments of the Tribe. It holds various operating businesses and investment entities engaged in oil and gas exploration, renewable energy infrastructure, real estate acquisition and development, and private equity investments.

Kava Equity Partners, as the direct private equity investment arm of the Growth Fund, aims to invest long-term, patient capital in lower middle market businesses with visionary management teams. The partnership seeks to create enduring value while adhering to the Tribe's values of economic empowerment, environmental stewardship, and community development.

For more information about Kava Equity Partners and its investment philosophy, please visit [www.kavaequity.com](https://www.kavaequity.com).

In conclusion, the Southern Ute Indian Tribe Growth Fund's announcement of Kava Equity Partners and the addition of Mr. Peter Shepard and Mr. James Dudley to the team signifies the Tribe's commitment to growing and diversifying its investment portfolio. With a strong focus on cultural, environmental, and economic values, the Tribe is poised to forge successful partnerships and create lasting value in the lower middle market.