Denver, October 1, 2024 – The Forbes M+A Group, a trusted name in middle market mergers and acquisitions, capital formation, and strategic financial advisory, proudly celebrates its 20th anniversary—a milestone that speaks to two decades of relentless dedication, innovative thinking, and unwavering partnership with the extraordinary business owners who shape our economy.
Founded in 2004 by Bob Forbes, The Forbes M+A Group began as a vision: to create an investment banking firm that offered something different—a level of partnership and integrity that went beyond transactions, and a commitment to achieving outcomes that would change lives, not just balance sheets.
From those early days, the mission was clear: help business owners navigate their highest stakes moments with authenticity, expertise, and heart. Twenty years later, that mission remains at the core of every deal we craft, every relationship we nurture, and every success story we help write.
“This anniversary isn’t just about us—it’s about the clients who have trusted us to walk beside them as they make decisions that will shape their futures and their families’ futures,” said Bob Forbes, Founder and President. “It’s about the thousands of conversations, the late-night negotiations, the creative solutions that turned potential into possibility, and the lasting friendships that have been forged along the way.”
Over these two decades, The Forbes M+A Group has earned a reputation for uncovering hidden value, finding non-obvious buyers, and negotiating outcomes that redefine what’s possible for middle market companies. With a team of senior advisors who collectively bring nearly 300 years of experience and over $85 billion in completed transactions across industries and markets, the firm has become a beacon for business owners seeking more than just a deal—they seek a legacy.
In 2022, recognizing the evolving regulatory and transactional landscape, Bob Forbes launched Forbes Partners, a registered broker-dealer and affiliate of The Forbes M+A Group. While distinct in governance and operations, Forbes Partners shares the same client-centric ethos and senior-led approach that has defined The Forbes M+A Group for two decades. Together, these firms provide complementary capabilities and comprehensive solutions for middle market business owners navigating their most significant transitions.
Looking Back—and Looking Forward
Reflecting on the journey, Bob Forbes shared:
“What makes me most proud isn’t just the deals we’ve closed, but the lives we’ve touched. We’ve seen owners turn generational sweat and sacrifice into security and possibility for their families—setting up futures for children, grandchildren, and communities. And we’ve been privileged to stand shoulder to shoulder with them through every high and low.”
Bob added:
“Our own success as a firm has given us the opportunity to generously support causes that matter deeply to us—amplifying the spirit of giving back that so many of our clients have demonstrated with the proceeds of their transactions. The ripple effects of these deals go far beyond the boardroom; they extend into communities and the world beyond.”
A Legacy of Empowerment
From homegrown entrepreneurs building local legacies to industry trailblazers pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, The Forbes M+A Group’s clients span industries, geographies, and ambitions. But what unites them—and us—is the belief that every business has a story worth telling, and that every exit should be crafted with care, purpose, and deep respect for what’s been built.
As we celebrate this milestone, we’re reminded of the words that have guided us for twenty years:
“It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it. If you think about that, you’ll do things differently.” – Warren Buffett
Those words resonate now more than ever. And as we step into the next chapter of our journey, they’ll continue to guide how we serve, how we partner, and how we honor the trust our clients place in us.
About The Forbes M+A Group and Forbes Partners
The Forbes M+A Group and Forbes Partners provide award-winning investment banking and transaction-related advisory services to exceptional middle market companies. With offices in Denver, CO; Salt Lake City, UT; and Charlotte, NC, our firms deliver tailored, senior-led solutions that maximize value and create legacies.