Cerea Partners initiates regional mezzanine fund for sustainable growth

Cerea Partners, a French pioneer in mezzanine debt investment, has announced the launch of the Mezz Ouest Solutions (MOS), the firm's first regional mezzanine debt fund targeting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and mid-cap companies in the Atlantic Arc region of France. Backed by Caisse d'Epargne Bretagne Pays de la Loire and Caisse d'Epargne Aquitaine Poitou-Charentes, the fund aims to provide innovative financing solutions to accompany the growth and transition of these regional businesses. Envisioned to reach a size between €120-150 million, the MOS fund will support dynamic and innovative companies through strategic funding for development, acquisition, or succession projects, with investments ranging from €2 million to €10 million. The fund will prioritize non-dilutive debt investments, with a strong commitment to environmental, energy, social, and shareholder transitions. The regional Caisses d'Epargne, contributing up to 20% of the target fund size, reinforce the fund's impact through their deep understanding of the local entrepreneurial landscape. Set to commence in December 2024, the fund will target institutional investors, large corporates, and high-net-worth individuals. Mezz Ouest Solutions is committed to regional impact, investing in diverse sectors, provided companies are located or have significant operations in Brittany, Pays de la Loire, Aquitaine, or Poitou-Charentes. The fund expects to make its first investment by the year's end.