Black Cat Building Consultancy, a Manchester-based commercial project and building consultancy, has secured a multimillion-pound investment from BGF, the UK and Ireland’s most active growth capital investor. The funding will support the company’s ambitious expansion plans across the UK and Ireland.
Company Background and Growth
Founded in 2015, Black Cat has grown to become one of the UK’s leading independent building consultancies. It serves commercial, industrial, retail, and public sector clients, offering services such as building surveying, design, rating, mechanical and electrical, compliance, and project management. The company has managed projects totalling more than £734 million and spanning 83 million square feet.
Black Cat now has 91 employees across 10 UK offices. In 2026, it was named the Best Medium-Sized Place to Work in the Building & Construction Industry in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work list.
Investment Details and Strategic Plans
The investment from BGF will enable Black Cat to ramp up expansion into new locations, grow its workforce, and enhance client services. As part of the deal, Ian Plumb will join Black Cat as non-executive chair from BGF’s Talent Network. Plumb has worked with several BGF portfolio businesses, including Emma Bridgewater and North West-based Evoke Creative, to drive strategic growth.
The deal was led by Josh Bean and Emma Cassidy, investors in BGF’s North West team.
Quotes from Leadership
Ben Golby, founder and director at Black Cat, said: “In the last decade, the business has gone from strength to strength. Not only have we grown year on year, but we have challenged some of the larger players in the sector, built a uniquely transparent and very rewarding workplace, and won significant market share.
“In order to build on that momentum and increase our footprint in diverse markets, we needed an investor to take a patient and long-term approach to growth. BGF stood out as the ideal partner, and we’re delighted to have them onboard as we expand across the country.”
Josh Bean, Investor at BGF, added: “Since 2015, Black Cat has created a people-first business, disrupting the commercial property market through its transparent approach. This formula has attracted some of the best talent in the market and enabled the business to make a tangible impact on both the commercial property market and in the regional hubs where it has a presence.
“We look forward to working with founders Ben, James and Stephen, as they continue leading Black Cat on its impressive growth journey.”
BGF’s Broader Investment Context
Last year, BGF announced a £3 billion commitment to support high-potential companies across the UK over the next five years. This includes £400 million for businesses in the North West, building on the £596 million already invested in the region since 2011.
