Our Identity.
Our Legacy.
Our Competitive Edge.

Trident Ventures isn’t just a firm—it’s a statement of purpose. Founded by the Illig family, our roots run deep in entrepreneurship, operational excellence, and a shared belief in building something that lasts. The trident, our namesake and symbol, reflects our unity, strength, and the precision with which we approach every partnership.

The Illig family’s entrepreneurial legacy forms the backbone of Trident Ventures, fueling our commitment to sustainable growth and operational excellence in everything we do.

Our Story

“With Trident, we honor our individuality and celebrate the power we wield together.”

Trident Ventures was founded on the belief that investing should be more than capital—it should be a catalyst for transformation. We partner with exceptional leaders to unlock growth, elevate performance, and create long-term value. Our mission is grounded in trust, transparency, and the belief that shared success drives the strongest returns.

Our foundation is decades in the making. The Illig family legacy began in 1979 when Cliff co-founded Cerner Corporation. This entrepreneurial leap would go on to transform healthcare technology. That same spirit of innovation has since shaped a diverse portfolio of ventures, spanning software, professional sports, hospitality, agriculture, golf, and hotels. The Illig name has become synonymous with building businesses that endure.

The blue in our logo nods to that enduring legacy—representing the foundation laid by Cliff and carried forward by Mike and Brian. Mike and Brian didn’t just grow up around business—they grew into builders themselves. Today, they bring a unique blend of discipline, resilience, and long-game thinking to every partnership, continuing the family’s tradition of building with purpose.

Our Name, Our Philosophy

The trident symbolizes strength, precision, and direction—qualities that guide our investment decisions and partnerships. We bring more than capital to the table: we bring clarity, confidence, and commitment.

MISSION

We Start with Different.

We invest in bold ideas, challenge traditional thinking, and partner with visionaries to build companies that leave a mark. Trident Ventures is about more than capital—it’s about changing the game.

VISION

A Relentless Pursuit to Be Better.

To transform industries and redefine what’s possible—where thinking differently fuels meaningful progress, high-quality experiences shape every interaction, and excellence isn’t optional; it’s expected.

What Sets Us Apart

Operationally Minded

We’re operators at heart—we dive in, lead, and get things done.

Strategically Grounded

We align capital with strategic vision.

Relationship First

We lead with trust and build lasting connections.

Built for the Long Haul

No short-term games. Just long-term wins.