Elevation Partners

Elevation Partners was a prominent private equity firm established in 2004, co-founded by U2 frontman Bono and technology investor Roger McNamee, alongside other notable partners like Fred Anderson (former Apple CFO). The firm distinguished itself by focusing on large-scale investments within the dynamic sectors of media, entertainment, and technology. It successfully raised a significant fund totaling $1.9 billion, aiming to capitalize on the convergence of these industries during the mid-2000s.

The firm's investment strategy centered on acquiring substantial ownership stakes in companies poised for significant growth and possessing strong brand recognition. Among its most notable investments were a $325 million stake in smartphone pioneer Palm in 2007, and a $250 million investment in Forbes Media in 2006, demonstrating their commitment to established brands in transition. Elevation Partners also gained significant exposure to Facebook through an indirect investment via Digital Sky Technologies (DST), highlighting their foresight in identifying emerging digital powerhouses.

Elevation Partners completed its active investment period in 2010, after which its portfolio was transitioned and subsequently managed by Silver Lake, a leading global technology investment firm. While no longer making new investments, Elevation Partners left a notable legacy, having been one of the few private equity firms to successfully bridge the worlds of entertainment and technology investment at such a high profile. Its strategic large-scale capital deployments helped shape key players in the digital landscape of the late 2000s.