Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG)

Champlain Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Commitment

Champlain takes a practical and thoughtful view of its ESG responsibilities in order to articulate, implement and support clear, honest and executable principles.

We view responsible investing as a key priority for Champlain.  This commitment to responsible investing is an important part of what we bring to our portfolio companies, their employees, suppliers and local communities, and that it enables them be more successful. It’s one more way that we help good, small companies become even better, more profitable companies, resulting in superior returns for our investors.

Champlain is also committed to building long-term, sustainable businesses which will grow, provide employment and generate economic benefit in an environmentally and socially responsible manner, both during and after Champlain’s ownership.  Since we invest in small businesses and these concepts are sometimes new to them, we have the experience and patience to guide them in a practical and responsible approach towards environmental, social and corporate governance.  These are some of the key ways we accomplish this:

Our Portfolio companies are committed to safe, clean and socially/environmentally-responsible business practices.  Our companies support and comply with all local and national environmental standards.  We will not invest in businesses that cannot meet these standards.

Champlain supports diversity at all levels within its portfolio companies.  We expect all employees to be rewarded fairly on the basis of their contributions and quality of work.  Our companies have non-discriminatory employment practices.  Employee safety is a primary concern, and we do not tolerate unethical and illegal conduct.

The Champlain team is fully engaged with its portfolio companies from a governance, strategy and operating performance basis.  This level of oversight and engagement is critical to achieving our desired outcomes. 

Champlain always establishes formal Boards of Directors for each Portfolio company consisting of experienced investors and relevant business leaders to provide wise insight, leadership guidance and effective governance processes.  Each Portfolio company Board meets quarterly with formal agendas and prepared business review materials.  

Champlain’s unique “One-Stop” investment strategy enables deep financial resilience for its Portfolio companies as there are no divergent and competing financial interests in the capital structure.  We can always do what’s right for our businesses.

Champlain leadership values their employees, limited partners and professional service providers.  We strive for transparency, responsiveness, fairness and superior results at all times.