Arboretum Investment Advisors, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser specializing in asset-backed and equipment finance funds, entered into a partnership to acquire, originate and service up to $500 million of equipment leases and loans. The Arboretum Group of companies currently manage and service in excess of $400 million in assets.

Arboretum Commercial Finance, LLC, the origination arm of the Arboretum Group, will continue collaborating with originators, captive lessors and institutions, acquiring standalone transactions and portfolios with a specific focus on middle-market “near-bankable” companies that are seeking structured transactions to acquire capital equipment needed for growth and improved efficiency.

Chip Leas, CEO of Arboretum Commercial Finance, said, “We are very excited to have this opportunity to work with a leading global investment management firm – it gives us the ability to provide more solutions to our clients and meet our growth goals.”

Claudine Aquillon, CEO of Arboretum Investment Advisors, said “This is another step forward for us as we move into 2021. This partnership provides us with the capital needed to take advantage of the current opportunities in the marketplace.”