J.P. Morgan Asset Management announced today the launch of a new growth equity platform, forming part of the newly established J.P. Morgan Private Capital, along with the firm’s existing private debt business. According to JPMorgan, the new unit aims to tap into the continued growth of private markets and significant pre-IPO value creation opportunities across a range of asset classes and sectors, including consumer, technology and sustainable growth equity investing.

To lead sustainable investment efforts, JPMorgan announced has appointed Osei Van Horne as Managing Partner and Global Head of Sustainable Growth Equity Investing. In his new role, Van Horne will lead a number of thematic investing initiatives utilizing ESG frameworks. These will include Project Black, an initiative from J.P. Morgan Asset Management with Ariel Investments aimed at helping close the racial wealth gap by investing directly into minority-owned middle-market businesses.

J.P. Morgan Private Capital aims to provide customized solutions for early and growth stage companies across the capital structure, focused on institutional and high-net-worth clients. The group will also have the ability to invest the firm’s capital alongside investors.

Brian Carlin, Chief Executive Officer, J.P. Morgan Private Capital, said:

“Growth equity and private debt are among the fastest-growing asset classes in the alternatives industry, with strong demand from both individual and institutional investors to look beyond public markets. We are committed to establishing long-term relationships with innovative private companies, and J.P. Morgan Private Capital is focused on creating discernable value for these companies across their lifecycle.”

According to JPMorgan, the new platform is being launched as companies are electing to remain private longer, and seek partners who can add significant value in addition to flexible capital solutions. The unit aims to tap into the continued growth of private markets and significant pre-IPO value creation opportunities across a range of asset classes and sectors, including consumer, technology and sustainable growth equity investing.

Anton Pil, Head of Global Alternatives at J.P. Morgan Asset Management, said:

“The launch of J.P. Morgan Private Capital reflects the increasing client demand for alternative asset classes and our focus on providing clients with new opportunities to enhance portfolio returns through private markets. We look forward to continuing to expand our capabilities across the Global Alternatives franchise in the coming months to meet client needs and seize market opportunities.”

Van Horne joins JPMorgan from Wells Fargo, where he co-founded the firm’s Strategic Capital Technology Division, focused on providing equity and second lien debt capital to high growth technology companies. He has also held private equity and venture capital-focused positions at firms including Genpact and Goldman Sachs.