Private Equity Info Blog

States with industry specialization drive more private equity activity

Written by Divya Ravikumar | Mar 10, 2025 6:57:24 PM

Private equity firms concentrate investments in high-growth states, aligning with local economic strengths and specialized industries, according to data from Private Equity Info's M&A research database. Economic growth rates vary, but states with dynamic and expanding industries generally see stronger private equity investment activity.

Investments tend to flow into sectors where states have a competitive advantage, such as technology in innovation hubs, financial services in established markets, and healthcare in regions with strong demographic demand. Additionally, states with pro-business environments, advanced research institutions, or key infrastructure hubs attract more private equity activity. 

This study examined the key industries represented by private equity platform investments in the six states with the highest number of active private equity holdings. 

State 

Portfolio Count* 

Top 5-Digit NAICS Industry 

Economic Growth (%)** 

Key Economic Drivers 

California 

3,209 

Tech & Life Sciences 

3.5% 

Innovation, Venture Capital 

Texas 

2,457 

Energy & Tech 

4.0% 

Pro-Business Climate, Energy Hub 

New York 

2,017 

Financial Services 

2.8% 

Established Financial Ecosystem 

Florida 

1,425 

Healthcare 

3.2% 

Aging Population, Medical Innovation 

Massachusetts 

1,109 

Biotechnology & Research 

3.0% 

Advanced Research Institutions, Skilled Talent 

Georgia 

761 

Logistics & Technology 

3.1% 

Transportation Hub, Digital Innovation 

* Current platform investments only. 

** Growth based on year-over-year change economic activity.