Enlightened Capital

Enlightenment Capital is a Chevy Chase, Maryland-based private equity firm that provides controlling equity, noncontrolling equity, and senior debt investments to middle-market businesses operating across the aerospace, defense, government services, and technology sectors. The organization primarily targets founder-led companies serving federal intelligence and government missions, focusing on constructing specialized industry platforms through strategic acquisitions before monetizing these assets via sales to larger buyers. Across its six closed investment vehicles, the firm recently secured $825 million for its oversubscribed fifth flagship fund in late 2024, surpassing its initial target cap. The firm's portfolio strategy is highlighted by the recent assembly of space platform Auria and cybersecurity platform RealmOne, alongside the completed $440 million sale of national security contractor EverWatch to Booz Allen Hamilton. Enlightenment Capital was established in 2012 by co-founders Devin Talbott and Pierre Chao.