Clayton Associates is a private equity firm based in Franklin, Tennessee that invests in early stage growth companies and selected real estate ventures. Clayton Associates has more than ten years of private equity experience, with over $100 million in committed capital in four funds.

Clayton Associates invests primarily in healthcare related services and technology, but also considers other industries including technology, communications, diversified services, health sciences, and biotechnology.

Investment Philosophy
Clayton Associates believes that investment quality is found principally in the management team, followed by the business model, and the company’s growth potential. We believe that quality management is the cornerstone of every successful company and seek experienced industry leaders with whom we can partner. The business model must provide the ability to generate long-term value on a national or regional level and have a well-defined place in the market that generates a clear exit strategy for the investment. The company must also exhibit significant growth potential, either internally or through acquisitions, that allows for a superior return on invested capital.

History
Clayton Associates was formed in 1996 by R. Clayton McWhorter, Stuart C. McWhorter and Bill F. Cook. While Clayton Associates was originally designed to be an advisory and investment consulting firm, the company evolved quickly into a hub of strategic business development activities for healthcare, diversified services, and technology companies throughout the Southeast. Through the extensive operating experience and network of relationships of the principals, Clayton Associates has attracted many skilled managers with innovative ideas seeking access to capital. Since its inception, Clayton Associates has invested directly, advised, or served as General Partner through its venture funds to over 70 private equity transactions. These companies achieved over $2 billion in revenues for fiscal year 2003. In 2005, Ingram Industries of Nashville, TN, made a minority investment in Clayton Associates, and Mr. John Ingram was added to the Board of Directors.