Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
SouthLight Capital is an alternative asset manager based in Mexico City, Mexico, with over 14 years of experience in socially responsible investments. The firm operates with a strong focus on the U.S. Hispanic market and Latin America, particularly within the Pacific Alliance countries, which include Mexico, Colombia, Peru, and Chile, as well as Brazil. SouthLight Capital employs diverse transaction structures, including growth equity and early-stage investments, to support companies that align with its impact and sustainability goals.
The firm has a dedicated team of 14 professionals, led by four managing partners: Miguel Olea, Héctor Martínez, Eduardo Cortina, and Gerardo Mendoza. Each partner brings extensive experience in private equity and growth capital, having previously worked with notable firms such as OPCAP I, Aureos Latin America Fund, and The Abraaj Group. This deep expertise enables SouthLight to effectively identify and nurture high-growth opportunities in its target markets.
SouthLight Capital has executed 24 investments across seven countries and 12 industry sectors, demonstrating its commitment to fostering growth in underserved markets. The firm integrates environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations into its investment process, which is a significant aspect of its operational philosophy.
SouthLight Capital primarily invests in growth companies in Latin America and the U.S. Hispanic market, focusing on sectors such as fintech, healthcare, consumer retail, logistics, and commerce. The firm targets early-stage investments, including pre-seed, seed, seed+, Series A, Series B, and growth equity stages. This broad investment strategy allows SouthLight to engage with a diverse range of businesses that align with its impact and sustainability goals.
The firm emphasizes investments in the Pacific Alliance countries and Brazil, as well as businesses in the U.S. that cater to the Hispanic community. SouthLight Capital seeks opportunities in sectors that are often underserved by traditional capital, such as distribution and logistics, financial services, education, health, and consumer retail. The firm’s investment thesis highlights the importance of local presence and deep market knowledge, which are critical for sourcing and monitoring investments effectively.
SouthLight Capital's approach to investment is characterized by a commitment to impact and sustainability, ensuring that the companies it supports not only achieve financial success but also contribute positively to their communities. The firm employs diverse transaction structures to adapt to the unique needs of each investment opportunity.
SouthLight Capital's portfolio includes several notable companies that reflect its investment strategy and focus on socially responsible growth. Key portfolio companies include:
These companies exemplify SouthLight Capital's commitment to investing in high-growth sectors while maintaining a focus on sustainability and social impact.
Miguel Olea: Managing Partner at SouthLight Capital, Miguel has extensive experience in Latin American private equity, having previously worked with OPCAP I, Aureos Latin America Fund, and The Abraaj Group. He specializes in identifying growth opportunities in the region.
Héctor Martínez: Managing Partner with over 20 years of experience in investment banking, project finance, and private equity in Latin America. Héctor is responsible for sourcing, executing, and monitoring investments, particularly in Chile and Peru.
Eduardo Cortina: Co-Managing Partner and board member at Selina, Eduardo is a specialist in Latin American growth equity. His background includes significant roles in various investment firms, contributing to his expertise in the region.
Gerardo Mendoza: Managing Partner at SouthLight Capital, Gerardo's background includes extensive experience in private equity, although specific details about his previous roles are not confirmed in available sources.
To pitch SouthLight Capital, founders should visit their official website at southlightcapital.com. While specific pitch guidelines are not publicly disclosed, it is advisable to include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and how the company aligns with SouthLight's focus on socially responsible investments.
Founders should also highlight their team's expertise and any traction the company has achieved to date. A well-structured pitch deck that addresses the firm's investment criteria will enhance the chances of engagement. Response times and specific application processes are not detailed, so founders should be prepared for varying timelines.
As of February 2022, SouthLight Capital made a notable investment in Merqueo, an online grocery delivery service operating in Colombia and Mexico. This investment aligns with the firm's focus on growth equity and socially responsible businesses.
Despite the lack of publicly confirmed deals post-2022, SouthLight Capital remains active in the investment space, focusing on high-growth opportunities in Latin America and the U.S. Hispanic market. The firm continues to emphasize its commitment to impact and sustainability in its investment strategy.
What are SouthLight Capital's investment criteria?
SouthLight Capital invests in growth companies primarily in Latin America and the U.S. Hispanic market, focusing on sectors such as fintech, healthcare, consumer retail, logistics, and commerce. The firm targets early-stage investments, including pre-seed, seed, Series A, and growth equity stages.
How can I pitch to SouthLight Capital?
Founders interested in pitching to SouthLight Capital can visit their website at southlightcapital.com for more information. Specific pitch guidelines are not publicly disclosed.
What makes SouthLight Capital different from other investors?
SouthLight Capital distinguishes itself through its commitment to socially responsible investments and its focus on the U.S. Hispanic market. The firm integrates ESG considerations into its investment process, which is a key aspect of its operational philosophy.
What is SouthLight Capital's geographic focus?
The firm primarily focuses on investments in Latin America, particularly within the Pacific Alliance countries and Brazil, as well as businesses in the United States that serve the Hispanic community.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Specific check sizes are not disclosed, but SouthLight Capital engages in early-stage investments and growth equity, indicating a range that accommodates various stages of company development.
What kind of support does SouthLight Capital provide to portfolio companies?
SouthLight Capital adds value to its portfolio companies through its deep local presence and extensive experience in private equity and growth capital, providing strategic guidance and support to enhance sustainability and impact.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.