Engler is chair of equity fund

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (AP) — Former Michigan. Gov. John Engler says he decided to become involved with a Michigan private equity fund because of the potential to create and preserve Michigan jobs.

Engler was recently appointed chairman of the advisory board to Blackford Capital’s Michigan Prosperity Fund. Grand Rapid-based Blackford focuses on acquiring and growing middle-market manufacturing, distribution and service companies.

Last year, Blackford created the Michigan Prosperity Fund to buy and manage Michigan companies.

Blackford officials think they have an edge over out-of-state private equity firms, particularly in approaching and working with family-owned companies in the state that may be looking to sell.

Engler, who served as a Republican governor from 1991 through 2002, is president of the Business Roundtable, an association of chief executive officers.