News & Insights

Toronto, ON (January 21, 2026) – Fengate Private Equity, a division of Fengate Asset Management ("Fengate"), today announced a strategic investment in Sussex Strategy Group ("Sussex"), a leading Canadian public affairs and strategic communications firm, to support the next stage of the company's growth across Canada.  

Founded in 1998, Sussex provides integrated public affairs, strategic communications and digital advocacy, and advisory services to clients operating in complex and regulated sectors including healthcare, energy, environment, mining, defence, transportation and infrastructure, land use planning and development, trade and finance, and the broader public and not‑for‑profit sectors. Fengate's investment will enable Sussex to expand its national footprint and further invest in people, platforms, and technology to deliver exceptional client service.  

"Sussex has built a highly respected, advisory platform with deep expertise in sectors that are critical to Canada's economy," said Deian Kutev, Managing Director, Private Equity at Fengate Asset Management. "This investment reflects our strategy of partnering with market-leading businesses to accelerate growth. Sussex is an ideal fit for our growing portfolio, with an experienced team and strong market position. We see significant opportunity to support continued expansion and build on the momentum Sussex has established." 

"This partnership marks an exciting next chapter for Sussex," said Chris Benedetti, Managing Partner and Chief Executive Officer at Sussex Strategy Group. "Knowledge, responsiveness, and impeccable customer service defines the Sussex experience. As one of Canada's premier public affairs agencies, we look forward to expanding our reach and strengthening our platform to support best‑in‑class services for our clients."  

The transaction aligns two Canadian‑owned firms with a shared focus on long‑term partnership, growth, and impact in the communities they serve. Sussex will continue to operate under its existing leadership team, with no changes to its brand or day‑to‑day client service.   

Miller Thomson LLP and Deloitte LLP served as advisors to Fengate and CIBC provided debt financing for the transaction. R&D LLP and Doane Grant Thornton Corporate Finance Inc. served as advisors to Sussex. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. 

About Fengate Asset Management
Fengate Asset Management is a leading alternative investment manager, with more than $25 billion in assets under management, focused on private equity, infrastructure and real estate strategies. With offices and team members across Canada and the United States, Fengate leverages more than 50 years of entrepreneurial experience to deliver excellent investment results on behalf of its clients. Fengate Private Equity, a division of Fengate Asset Management, is a differentiated investment platform supporting the growth ambitions of entrepreneurs through transformative capital. Fengate is managing this investment independently, in its capacity as an investment manager for the LiUNA Pension Fund of Central and Eastern Canada. Learn more at  www.fengate.com. 

About Sussex Strategy Group 
Sussex Strategy Group is Canada's premier public affairs firm. Since 1998, Sussex has delivered exceptional results by combining deep industry expertise, political insight, and strategic creativity to help clients advance and safeguard their interests. With offices in Toronto and Ottawa and a network of associates nationwide, we empower leading businesses and trade associations to shape policy, secure funding and opportunities, and protect their reputations in an increasingly competitive and complex environment. More than advisors, we are trusted partners who turn uncertainty into advantage and challenges into catalysts for growth. Learn more at www.sussex-strategy.com.  

For more information:  

Vanessa Naughton 
Director, Communications and Marketing  
Fengate Asset Management 
416-709-3962