ORIX USA is pleased to announce the expansion of ORIX Ventures, an investment division of ORIX USA, after a record 2014. ORIX Ventures is a leading venture finance firm that provides debt and equity capital to high-growth companies.
Led by William Bishop and Jeff Bede, ORIX Ventures has experienced strong momentum in deal prospects. In 2014, the company funded nearly $180 million in 13 venture debt transactions, as well as $12 million in equity and additional investments as a limited partner in equity funds. ORIX Ventures provided significant incremental capital to four of its existing portfolio companies, demonstrating the relationship-nature of its lending approach. Since its inception in 2001, the group has committed approximately $1.3 billion across nearly 120 growth companies through various economic cycles.
“ORIX Ventures has a very lengthy and successful track record with deep expertise in the venture lending market,” said Brian Prince, President and CEO of ORIX USA. “It has the right team and has the strong institutional support of ORIX Corporation to be a preeminent player in the industry.”
In order to facilitate further growth, Bede is now leading debt and equity investment efforts on the West Coast after seven successful years with ORIX Ventures in the Mid-Atlantic region, completing more than $300 million of investments. ORIX Ventures has already funded three West Coast transactions since Bede’s move this past summer.
“We have had record performance funding new transactions this year and have impressive momentum as we continue to expand the ORIX Ventures platform,” said Bede. “The West Coast, and Silicon Valley in particular, are key growth markets for us.”
Following Bede’s relocation to the West Coast, ORIX Ventures hired Todd McDonald as Director of the Mid-Atlantic region. McDonald brings more than 20 years of investment experience, predominantly in the Washington, D.C., area, where he has deployed more than $300 million of capital. Previously, McDonald served as Managing Director for Horizon Technology Finance in the Mid-Atlantic region and held various positions with Comerica Bank.
ORIX Ventures also hired Sabeen Firozali and Joel Marquis as associate directors. Firozali previously worked as a leveraged finance and corporate credit investor at various firms, including Appaloosa Management and Lord Abbett. Marquis previously served in both venture financing and corporate development capacities, most recently at The Dingman Center for Entrepreneurship.
“We are delighted at our overall momentum, strong progress especially on the West Coast, talented additions to our team, and the great support from ORIX USA,” said Bishop. “We are eager to build upon our fantastic track record and grow our business over the long term by helping growth-oriented companies achieve their goals.”