Tertium

Tertium operates as a specialized private equity fund focused on company transfers and development initiatives within the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur (PACA) region of France. Its companion fund, TERTIUM Croissance, maintains the same investment philosophy while broadening its geographical reach to encompass the entire Greater South East of France. Both entities were established as entrepreneurial investment vehicles with significant backing from prominent regional business leaders, creating a unique network that combines financial resources with deep operational expertise. This distinctive approach allows portfolio companies to benefit from both capital infusion and strategic guidance from successful industry veterans.

The fund's financial foundation is strengthened by partnerships with major financial institutions, including CEPAC (Caisse d'Epargne Provence-Alpes-Corse), Crédit Mutuel ARKEA, and Bpifrance—France's public investment bank. This consortium of sponsors provides Tertium with substantial investment capacity and enhances its credibility within the regional business ecosystem. The involvement of Bpifrance particularly signals the fund's alignment with national economic development priorities, while the regional banks bring valuable local market intelligence and relationship networks.

Tertium has developed a reputation for its hands-on investment approach, typically targeting established small and medium-sized enterprises with proven business models that are navigating critical transition phases. The fund specializes in supporting companies through ownership transitions, management succession planning, and ambitious growth initiatives that might include market expansion, digital transformation, or acquisition strategies. This focus on business continuity during pivotal moments has made Tertium a valued partner for family-owned businesses and founder-led companies contemplating their next evolution.

The investment strategy at Tertium emphasizes sustainable growth rather than short-term financial engineering. The fund typically makes equity investments ranging from €1-5 million, taking minority or majority positions depending on the specific situation. With a typical investment horizon of 5-7 years, Tertium provides patient capital that allows portfolio companies to implement long-term strategic plans without undue pressure for immediate returns. This approach has enabled numerous regional businesses to strengthen their market positions, professionalize their operations, and achieve significant scale while maintaining their distinctive corporate cultures and regional economic contributions.