Founded by John Ware in 1998, 21st Century Group L.L.C. is the second largest African American-owned private equity firm in Texas. Under Ware’s leadership, the company manages $166 million in capital–up 107% from the previous year.
The financial services firm focuses on later stage investments. The company targets lower middle market companies with superior management in place. The Dallas-based firm’s portfolio investments include Paris Packaging Inc., Integrity Packaging Inc. and Urban Radio–a joint venture between 21st Century Group and Goldman Sachs.