Meet our Founder

Shana Yu, Managing Partner

I’m committed to preserving small businesses because they are the backbone of communities and local economies.

My parents were my first inspiration in entrepreneurship. Their journey as immigrants from China instilled in me resilience, vision, and dedication. Watching them build a business while learning a new language taught me the power of hard work, grit, and adaptability. With their example, I approach business acquisition with a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed as a small business owner.

I’ve sharpened my leadership skills through hands-on experience at running global brands and startups.

With 15+ years across investments, food, and healthcare, I’m experienced at unlocking growth through key business levers. Following graduation from Pomona College, I managed portfolio allocation and due diligence for a $60M hedge fund, where I honed my skills in analytics and risk management. I then attended Kellogg Business School at Northwestern University to further round out my skills as a business operator. Since Kellogg, I’ve managed a number of iconic national brands (Cheerios, Fiber One, Birds Eye, Duncan Hines, Robitussin, Theraflu), as well as digitally driven direct-to-consumer startup businesses (AmazonFresh, Home Chef). As a management leader, I’ve led teams across marketing, innovation, tech and supply chain to drive business impact amidst tough challenges--- including scaling a meal kit business from $0 to $55 million in one year, and launching a $60 million award winning baking innovation to reinvigorate growth in a declining category. Through it all, I believe fostering a culture of trust and accountability among my team is the key to driving results.

I’m passionate about fostering community connection.

When I’m not working, I team up with AAPI groups to bring vibrant Asian holiday celebrations to life in our local communities. Having experienced the power of community firsthand as an immigrant family, it is important to me to create spaces where people can connect, share, and lift each other up.