As a partner, Westward is highly committed to the success of its portfolio companies. Our interactions with management are generally guided by collaborative discussions around what is best for the company and its shareholders. In almost all situations, Westward will seek to join the board of its portfolio companies. However, unless otherwise requested by management, we are mindful to limit our direct involvement to key board-level concerns, so as not to interfere with the day-to-day operations of the business. In structuring our transactions, we give careful attention to management’s equity participation, and where appropriate, afford entrepreneurs and other shareholders the opportunity for near-term liquidity.

Typically, our efforts are focused on providing support in the following areas:

• Recruiting talented executives and board members
• Defining business strategy and the associated budget
• Sourcing and evaluating mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures, including the eventual exit
• Capitalizing the company
• Analyzing any critical risks being faced or undertaken by the company
• Making helpful introductions (customers, business development partners, vendors, etc.)

With respect to liquidity, we bring a long-term perspective, and rely heavily on guidance from management. Our structure affords us the flexibility to be patient, applying an appropriate duration to each investment. In most cases, we expect to exit our investments in a private sale to a strategic or financial buyer.