Jack Tankersley is often introduced as the “father of venture capital” in Colorado. As a co-founder of The Centennial Funds, in 1981 he raised the first private equity fund in our state. Over his long career, he has raised and managed more than $1 billion. His passion for helping people build successful businesses, whether as an investor, director, or strategic planning consultant is evident in the success of his investments, having seven portfolio companies ultimately selling for valuations in excess of $1 billion. 

At Meritage. Jack is the visionary leader of Meritage. His creative approach to deal structures has led to consistent investment successes. As an EOS Implementer, Jack provides dynamic, powerful training to entrepreneurs and leadership teams. His decades of experience as an investor and director of venture and private equity-backed enterprises give him a unique and keen perspective into the world of the entrepreneur. He uniquely understands their challenges and needs. As a creative and thoughtful problem-solver, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to each session he conducts. 

Experience. Jack has worked with scores of companies, from very early stage to mature companies seeking successful exits. His investment successes in companies such as Crown Castle and Brooks Fiber Properties are well known and he is widely regarded as an unparalleled expert in strategic planning and investment strategies. 

Designations. Certified EOS Implementer; Certified Kolbe Consultant; Distinguished Eagle Scout; Distinguished Service Award, Woodberry Forest School; Silver Beaver Award, Denver Area Council, Boy Scouts of America 

Education. Denison University, BA (high honors); The Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth (MBA) 

Boards/Volunteer Work. Jack currently serves as a director of Meritage portfolio companies SmartSky Networks, DataVail, and LumenServe. He is also an outside director of Cakebread Cellars, a Napa Valley based winery. He has been highly active in community affairs in Denver and beyond. He serves on the Board of Trustees for Denison University and The National Trust for Historic Preservation which he also serves as Chair of its Investments Committee. He is a former trustee of Woodberry Forest School and continues to serve on its Investment Committee. Jack is a past President and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Boy Scouts of America, Denver Area Council and chairs its Endowment Trust. Jack is an Emeritus Advisory Board member of the Tuck School of Business – Center for Private Equity & Entrepreneurship.