Charter Capital Partners Expands into Southeast U.S. with New Tampa Office

Charter Capital Partners Expands to Tampa, Strengthening National Presence

Grand Rapids, MI — In a bold move to enhance its national footprint, Grand Rapids-based Charter Capital Partners has officially opened its first office outside of Michigan in Tampa, Florida. This expansion marks a significant milestone for the 36-year-old firm, which aims to tap into the burgeoning business landscape of the southeastern United States.

According to a recent statement, the new Tampa office will not only bolster Charter Capital’s national capabilities but also establish a vital local presence in one of the country’s most dynamic markets. Notably, nearly half of the firm’s transactions involve clients or investments beyond Michigan, underscoring its growing influence across state lines.

Mark Streekstra, a partner and managing director at Charter Capital Partners, expressed enthusiasm about the expansion. “We’ve quietly built a national practice over the years,” he said. “Charter’s expansion to Tampa represents our dedication to continued growth of our practice, team, and industry expertise, and our intentionality of maintaining strong relationships with our partners across the U.S.”

The Southeast region, according to Streekstra, shares many similarities with the Midwest, including a relationship-driven culture and a robust industrial history. “We see a lot of supportive economic tailwinds here,” he added.

Leading the Tampa office will be Zach Wiersma, a director who has been with Charter Capital since 2019. Wiersma, who was recently named Young Dealmaker of the Year at the 2025 M&A Deals and Dealmakers Awards, will relocate from Grand Rapids to Florida. He emphasized that Tampa’s entrepreneurial spirit and rapid growth mirror the qualities that make Grand Rapids special.

“This expansion is a natural next step for us,” Wiersma stated. “Tampa’s business climate mirrors what we love about Grand Rapids — an entrepreneurial spirit, rapid growth, and a culture where relationships matter.”

The Tampa office will position Charter Capital to serve the region’s diverse sectors, including industrial services, manufacturing, distribution, and furniture, while continuing to advise on transactions and capital strategies nationwide.

Charter Capital consists of both a merchant bank and M&A advisory firm, along with the Charter Growth Capital investment arm, which provides junior capital to lower middle-market businesses. Recently, Charter Growth Capital played a pivotal role in financing the acquisition of Stone House Bread, a Traverse City-based artisan bakery, by Bimbo Bakeries USA, a subsidiary of Mexico’s Grupo Bakery.

In addition, Charter Growth Capital recently closed its second mezzanine fund, totaling $111 million, with significant backing from private investors and a $50 million commitment from the U.S. Small Business Administration.

As Charter Capital Partners embarks on this exciting new chapter in Tampa, the firm remains committed to fostering strong relationships and driving growth in both the Midwest and Southeast markets.

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