KSM Launches Investment Banking Practice

Indianapolis-based IPA 100 firm KSM (Katz, Sapper & Miller) (FY24 net revenue of $166.04 million) has announced the launch of its investment banking service line with the addition of Charter Capital Partners’ investment banking team.

The addition expands KSM’s capabilities to include a full suite of M&A advisory and succession planning services, strengthening the firm’s ability to support clients at critical points in their business lifecycle.

Based in Grand Rapids, Mich., Charter Capital Partners’ investment banking team is a middle-market M&A advisor with experience spanning the full transaction lifecycle, from sourcing through execution. With the addition of the Charter team, KSM has established an investment banking platform comparable to those offered by top CPA firms nationwide.

As part of the move, Mike Brown and Mark Streekstra have joined KSM as partners and managing directors and will lead the 13-member investment banking team, which will operate under the name KSM Corporate Finance. Eligible Charter employees will become employee-owners through participation in KSM’s employee stock ownership plan.

The team will continue operating from its Grand Rapids office. KSM said it plans to expand its presence in West Michigan over time, with the goal of establishing a full-service regional office in Grand Rapids.

“We are thrilled to have Charter Capital Partners join forces with KSM,” said Tim Cook, CEO and president of KSM. “As our clients face increasingly complex decisions, they expect advisors who can see the full picture. Expanding into investment banking strengthens our ability to serve as a long-term strategic partner.”

Brown said the cultural alignment between the firms was evident early in the process. “Charter and KSM share a common mindset and culture. Both firms are grounded in the Midwest, value long-term relationships, and prioritize people – both clients and employees. Joining KSM allows us to expand our capabilities while continuing to serve clients with the same approach and values that have defined our work.”

Streekstra added that becoming part of KSM provides access to deeper resources and broader expertise, enhancing the team’s ability to advise business owners navigating transition decisions and supporting strategic expansion throughout the Midwest and beyond.

KSM continues to diversify its service offerings and expand geographically. In 2025, the firm launched an information technology advisory practice, and Chicagoland firm MichaelSilver and its more than 70 employees joined KSM, establishing the firm’s Chicago office.

Charter Growth Capital, Charter Capital’s mezzanine debt and minority equity investment fund, is not part of the transaction and will remain independent.