portfolio

With the fall of communism, The Burlington Capital Group, L.L.C. (“BCG”) recognized the historic opportunity to develop an agribusiness investment fund in the Former Soviet Union.

In December 1995, Agribusiness Partners International (API) was formed as a $100 million private equity investment fund. The Fund enjoyed the support and partial guarantee by the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (“OPIC”). API invested in eight food and agribusiness sector companies with operations in Russia, Kazakhstan, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine. These investments were primarily early-stage investments or start-ups. The private equity fund invested in companies that acquired old Soviet assets, invested in upgrades and developed modern, world-class competitive companies.

In 1998, the region experienced a severe economic crisis and 4 to 1 currency devaluation. 7 of 8 investments survived the severe economic crisis of 1998 due to the experienced management team, strategy and high operating standards.