HIG Capital and Thoma Bravo are to acquire the information technology (IT) certification and training division of the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), in a major shift for the globally recognised provider of IT credentials.
CompTIA, known for its industry-leading, vendor-neutral IT certifications, offers a range of services including cybersecurity, cloud computing, networking, and emerging technology education. To date, the association has awarded over 3.5 million certifications to IT professionals worldwide, maintaining strong ties with thousands of global partners, including academic institutions and non-profits, to help train and certify future tech talent.
After the acquisition, CompTIA’s certification and training division will operate as a for-profit entity under HIG and Thoma Bravo. The non-profit arm of CompTIA, which is focused on advocacy and industry service, will remain separate and continue its mission as a 501(c)(6) organisation.
“This transaction enables us to expand our impact on the IT industry globally,” said CompTIA CEO Todd Thibodeaux in a press statement. “We’ll be better positioned to roll out products and services that train the highly skilled workers of the future.”
The acquisition is expected to finalise in early 2025, pending regulatory approvals.
Macquarie Capital, Ropes & Gray LLP, and Polsinelli LLP advised HIG and Thoma Bravo, while JPMorgan Securities LLC and Husch Blackwell LLP advised CompTIA.
