Local tech leader MDI enters multi-billion peso deal with Advantage Partners, paves the way for global expansion

Micro-D International Inc. (MDI), together with its fully-owned subsidiary Novare Technologies, recently sealed a multi-billion peso investment deal with Japanese private equity (PE) firm Advantage Partners (AP), as MDI reinforces its renewed commitment to further develop the country’s digitalization efforts and make it globally competitive and recognized. 

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Tech pioneer and digital maven Myla Villanueva, founder of MDI and Novare Technologies, said MDI’s partnership with the PE firm will facilitate the company’s goal to achieve its full potential as a trusted digital transformation partner for market leaders, both here and in the region. “It has always been my goal to make MDI the Philippines’ national champion in technology. The partnership simply came at the most perfect time, when digital transformation became even more of an imperative for corporations to serve the evolving needs of their customers,” said Villanueva. Leading global independent investment bank, Evercore and premier international law firm, Milbank advised MDI in the deal. 

For his part, Emmett Thomas, AP’s head of Asia, said the firm is excited to work and further build the capacity of the local leader in IT services. “The transaction represents the first investment in the Philippines by AP Funds, and Advantage Partners is thrilled at the opportunity to help MDI fulfill its digital transformation mission in the Philippines and the rest of Asia,” said Thomas. 

Founded in 1992, Advantage Partners, LLP is a leading Private Equity investment firm in Japan, having invested in 43 companies across a range of industries. Operating globally, AP offers portfolio and investment management, financial planning, investment advisory, and consulting services. Their main limited partners include Marubeni Corporation and Mitsui & Co. 

“As we enter into this milestone partnership, we are confident that this will pave the way for more expansion opportunities for MDI and introduce more innovations and digital solutions that would help the country prepare for the next future, towards a more digitized world,” Villanueva added. 

Founded in 1988, MDI Novare is a leader in the local IT market. It caters to blue chip companies in the Philippines, helping its clients drive digital transformation through application development, infrastructure, data analytics, and IT security. It also has industry expertise in telecommunications, financial services, public industries, and domestic conglomerates