Emerging Managers

Ropes & Gray was my first call when I decided to launch Crosspoint Capital Partners and has been an indispensable partner to us ever since. Having come to the industry as operators, we depended on them for a crash course on the industry and they delivered! Thanks to Ropes & Gray’s deep knowledge and network, we had instant credibility with investors and were prepared every step of the way. We couldn’t have achieved such a successful first fund close without their creative solutions and steady guidance.”

– Greg Clark, Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Crosspoint Capital Partners

What we do:

• define economic and governance arrangements amongst founders
• draft and negotiate fund documents and LP side letters
• raise dedicated and one-time co-investment vehicles
• establish fund lines of credit
• define employment terms and vesting schedules to build out the team
• develop tax efficient structures
• help you navigate the different regulatory regimes
• connect to the Ropes & Gray network of limited partners, managers, general counsels, operators and investment professionals developed over decades of serving the industry.

We are a trusted advisor to many of today’s most successful private equity firms. These success stories aren’t just big names, they started out as first-time funds themselves. Ropes & Gray was there at the beginning, and we are ready to bring that same level of dedication and insight to your new fund.

• Cove Hill Capital: Partnered with Ropes & Gray from its launch, Cove Hill closed its $1 billion debut fund in record time.
• Crosspoint Capital: Chose Ropes & Gray to advise on the formation of its first fund, which closed above target at $1.3 billion. We’ve been by their side as this cybersecurity-focused firm quickly became one of the largest first-time funds ever raised.
• Gauge Capital: This Texas-based middle-market firm has relied on Ropes & Gray through multiple fundraises. We counseled Gauge Capital on the close of its oversubscribed Fund IV ($1.4 billion), reflecting a relationship that began with their very first fund.

Choosing Ropes & Gray means gaining more than top-tier legal service – you gain a partner invested in your success.

• Experience: As an emerging manager, you are confronted with countless decisions that will shape your firm for years to come. Leverage our experience to help you prioritize and anticipate what is coming next.
• Deep market knowledge: From day one, we’ll help you anticipate LP concerns, refine terms to meet market expectations, and even make introductions when appropriate. We have a proprietary database on LP terms developed over years of working with leading managers and hundreds of limited partners around the world.
• Tailored Approach: We don’t just drop a playbook on you and wish you luck. We take the time to listen to you, understand your vision, your goals and your challenges. We tailor our approach to deliver what you need, when you need it.
• Value: The Ropes & Gray value proposition is to deliver based on your needs, your stage of development and your business objectives. We approach the relationship as partners prepared to invest in your success. Our structure encourages collaboration and allows us to deliver teams tailored to your needs. 

Your first fund is a defining moment for your firm’s legacy. With Ropes & Gray as your partner, you gain a trusted ally who’s invested in turning your vision into a thriving reality. Ready to launch your fund with a trusted partner? Reach out to Ropes & Gray’s fund formation team today and let us help you make your mark across the private funds landscape.

Contact us to start a conversation – we’re excited to champion your success.