Investor Profile: Harbert Growth Partners — Thesis, Cheque Size & How to Apply

Harbert Growth Partners is the US growth-equity team of Harbert Management Corporation (HMC), the Birmingham, Alabama alternative asset manager founded in 1993 that reports approximately $8.1 billion in regulatory assets under management across eight asset classes. Harbert Growth Partners backs emerging growth-stage technology companies, bringing the discipline and balance sheet of a large alternative manager to venture-sized deals.

Investment thesis

The team invests in promising emerging growth-stage technology companies, targeting information technology, digital media, cybersecurity, fintech, healthcare services, medical devices and healthcare information technology. It looks for companies with proven products and real revenue momentum, then uses HMC's capital, network and operating experience to accelerate them. The strategy is growth equity, not seed speculation: it funds companies that are already working and need capital to scale faster.

Cheque size and fund size

Harbert Growth Partners does not publish a standard cheque range, and the size of its dedicated growth funds is not publicly disclosed. What is public is the parent: HMC manages approximately $8.1 billion in regulatory assets under management, and the growth team has led rounds such as the $30 million Series B of Yardstik in August 2026. Founders should therefore discuss cheque size directly with the team rather than rely on a published band.

Notable portfolio companies

Harbert's notable exits include grocery-delivery company Shipt, clinical trial firm Clinipace and rideshare marketplace Sidecar, plus Clarabridge (acquired by Qualtrics), MapAnything (acquired by Salesforce) and Payzer (acquired by WEX). Recent investments include Yardstik, whose $30 million Series B it led in August 2026, publisher platform Admiral ($19 million round led in 2024), Hello Alice, Connectbase, ThreatX and Notable Systems. Managing partner Wayne Hunter and general partner Brian Carney are among the team's leaders.

Programs, credits and perks

Harbert Growth Partners runs no public accelerator, founder programme or startup credits scheme. Its support model is hands-on growth equity: board participation, hiring and go-to-market help, and introductions across HMC's institutional network. Founders should expect operating partnership, not a perks catalogue.

How to apply for funding

Harbert Growth Partners has no open application portal. The realistic route is a warm introduction through a portfolio founder, a co-investor or an HMC relationship, or a direct approach to the team via the contact details on harbert.net (the firm publishes [email protected]). Lead with revenue traction, a clear growth-stage story and the specific help you want from a growth partner, not just a cheque.