Bluestem Capital

Bluestem Capital Company, LLC is a private equity and venture capital firm based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, specializing in mezzanine financing, buyouts, and recapitalization. Founded in 1989, the firm focuses on mid-market investments across various sectors, including business services, life sciences, natural resources, manufacturing, and healthcare. Bluestem Capital does not invest in startups or turnaround situations, preferring early to late venture transactions. The firm typically invests between $0.5 million and $3 million in convertible preferred stock and subordinated debentures, seeking to acquire majority stakes in its portfolio companies. It aims to secure a board seat in these companies and generally exits investments through public offerings, management buyouts, or sales to strategic or financial buyers. The firm prioritizes investments in the Midwest, particularly California, and has a commitment from its management team to invest a significant portion of their net worth alongside the firm's capital.

Drew Doshier

Principal - Portfolio Management

Sandy Horst

Partner and CFO

Jon Kirby

Senior Associate, Investor Relations

Steve Kirby

Founding Partner

Nikole Mulder

Partner and Vice President

Tyler J. Stowater

Partner and Vice President

Past deals in South Dakota

Montessorium

Series B in 2017
Montessorium, LLC is an educational technology company based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, specializing in the development of educational applications for iPhone and iPad designed for children. Founded in 2010, Montessorium creates apps that incorporate the Montessori learning philosophy, offering a range of subjects including math, geography, writing, reading, puzzles, drawing, and painting exercises. As of September 2018, the company operates as a subsidiary of Higher Ground Education Inc., continuing to bring the principles of Montessori education to a modern digital platform.

Montessorium

Series A in 2015
Montessorium, LLC is an educational technology company based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, specializing in the development of educational applications for iPhone and iPad designed for children. Founded in 2010, Montessorium creates apps that incorporate the Montessori learning philosophy, offering a range of subjects including math, geography, writing, reading, puzzles, drawing, and painting exercises. As of September 2018, the company operates as a subsidiary of Higher Ground Education Inc., continuing to bring the principles of Montessori education to a modern digital platform.

Renutra Natural Health Products

Venture Round in 2004
Renutra Natural Health Products share a tradition that runs deeper than individual knowledge, education and expertise.