About Nexus Equity Referrals
We are dedicated to connecting business owners with the right private equity partners,
specifically those interested in their industry, through our trusted referral network.
We are dedicated to connecting business owners with the right private equity partners, specifically those interested in their industry, through our trusted referral network.
Our Mission
Nexus Equity Referrals was founded with a simple yet powerful mission: to bridge the gap between successful business owners and leading private equity firms. We understand that selling a business is one of the most significant decisions an entrepreneur will make, and finding the right partner is crucial for maximizing value and ensuring a smooth transition.
What Sets Us Apart
Deep Industry Knowledge
Our team brings decades of experience in private equity, investment banking, and business operations, ensuring we understand both sides of the transaction.
Extensive Network
We maintain relationships with over 200 private equity firms, actively tracking their industry-specific investment mandates across various sectors and investment sizes, from middle-market to large-cap transactions.
Deep Industry Knowledge
Our team brings decades of experience in private equity, investment banking, and business operations, ensuring we understand both sides of the transaction.
Extensive Network
We maintain relationships with over 200 private equity firms, actively tracking their industry-specific investment mandates across various sectors and investment sizes, from middle-market to large-cap transactions.
Our Approach
We take a consultative approach to every engagement. Rather than simply making introductions, we work closely with business owners to understand their goals, timeline, and preferences. This allows us to identify the most suitable private equity partners, specifically those with an interest in your industry, and present opportunities in the best possible light.
Our process is designed to be efficient and respectful of your time while ensuring thorough evaluation and optimal outcomes. We handle the initial screening and qualification, so you only spend time with genuinely interested and qualified potential partners.
About the Founder
After years of watching how disruptive and impersonal traditional M&A processes can be, Lee Middlekauff launched Nexus Equity Referrals to offer something different—a quieter, more thoughtful way for business owners to explore strategic partnerships.
Lee works with founders, CEOs, and management teams who may be thinking about growth capital, succession, or a potential exit but aren’t ready for a formal process. His introductions are built on alignment, discretion, and timing—not pressure.
Based in Colorado, Lee also serves as a consultant at a national professional services firm, advising middle market companies on growth planning, organizational strategy, and ownership transition. His strength lies in listening closely, understanding what makes each business unique, and connecting people who should know each other.
Every conversation is confidential. It starts with listening, not a pitch.