Early Career and Background in Finance
Craig Bonn was born in New York and pursued higher education at the University of Hartford, where he earned his undergraduate degree He then began his professional career at Lehman Brothers. At the time, Lehman was at the center of global financial markets, handling complex investment strategies and large institutional clients Working in such a competitive environment helped sharpen Craig's instincts in risk assessment, portfolio management, and client advisory.
It was also during this early phase of his career that Craig realized the limitations of traditional investment frameworks. He observed that standard market instruments did not always serve the long-term interests of all clients, particularly high-net-worth individuals and institutions seeking higher yield and differentiated exposure This realization planted the seeds for Craig's eventual pivot toward alternative investments.
The Birth of Harley Capital LLC
After years of professional maturity and industry experience, Craig decided to establish his own independent broker-dealer He founded Harley Capital LLC with a mission to deliver superior, personalized financial services to clients by focusing on transparency, value creation, and access to unique investment opportunities As a Managing Partner and one of the firm's founders, Craig led with a vision that emphasized long-term relationships, fiduciary responsibility, and diversification.
Under his leadership, Harley Capital has grown into a reputable boutique investment firm that works with high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and trusts. The firm's services extend well beyond traditional brokerage functions Harley Capital clients benefit from curated exposure to private equity, pre-IPO investments, and a range of alternative asset classes that are typically beyond the reach of conventional investors
Edge Partners LLC and the Special Purpose Vehicle Model
One of the most notable expansions of Craig's professional portfolio is his role as Managing Member of Edge Partners LLC, a company specifically designed to facilitate SPV (Special Purpose Vehicle) investments. SPVs allow accredited investors to pool capital for direct participation in pre-IPO and late-stage venture deals Edge Partners serves as a platform through which Craig channels his experience and due diligence capacity, identifying high-conviction, high-potential companies on the brink of major liquidity events.
Edge Partners focuses on investments in technology, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, robotics, and next-generation software, to name a few verticals. The firm operates through a Delaware Series LLC structure, which offers flexibility, scalability, and legal efficiency The typical strategy employed by Edge Partners is to acquire securities in pre-IPO companies and hold them until a liquidity event, either a public listing or acquisition, materializes.
Philosophy on Investing
Craig Bonn's approach to investing is defined by three critical pillars: disciplined risk management, intelligent timing, and long-term strategic vision He believes that the most successful investments come not only from the quality of the deal but also from the structure under which investors gain exposure This philosophy underpins his preference for SPVs and other alternative frameworks, which can offer superior upside while containing risk through strategic syndication.
Another key element of Craig's strategy is early identification. He often seeks opportunities in companies that are still private but are showing substantial signs of operational traction, technological innovation, and market relevance These pre-IPO stages represent, in Craig's view, the most asymmetric return profiles available in modern investing.
Expanding the Alternative Investment Spectrum
Beyond private equity and pre-IPO markets, Craig Bonn has expanded his interests into other alternative investment spaces Through Harley Capital and affiliated vehicles, he participates in natural gas mineral funds, venture capital partnerships, hospitality REITs, and specialty financing structures. One such example is WhiteHawk Energy, a natural gas minerals fund that aligns well with Craig's view on the energy sector's evolving industry
He is also involved with investments in companies such as Outstanding Foods, Braemar Hotels and Resorts, Prospect Capital, and Urica Therapeutics Each of these positions reflects a tailored analysis of industry cycles, company fundamentals, and broader macroeconomic indicators
Community Engagement and Philanthropy
In addition to his professional achievements, Craig is committed to philanthropy and community engagement. He is an active supporter of several charitable initiatives, including Pink Aid and
Fred's Team These organizations support causes that are personal and meaningful to Craig, ranging from cancer research to local health and wellness initiatives.
His contributions are not limited to financial support. He participates in fundraising activities and helps raise awareness for these causes within his professional and social circles.
Personal Life and Interests
Craig has lived in Westport, Connecticut, for more than 25 years He lives with his wife and enjoys the quiet, family-friendly atmosphere of this affluent suburban town
Outside of his work in finance, Craig is a runner He has completed five marathons, including participation in the New York Marathon He is also an avid traveler, finding inspiration and insight through exposure to global cultures and economies.
