Colton Wandke is a seasoned financial executive and entrepreneur with expertise in corporate finance, capital markets, and strategic advisory services. He has demonstrated a keen ability to identify, structure, and execute complex financial transactions throughout his career. With a focus on transaction advisory and capital structuring, Mr. Wandke has earned a reputation for offering innovative financial solutions that drive business growth and success.
Co-Founder and Partner at DECA Analytics
Colton is the Co-Founder and Partner at DECA Analytics, LLC, a leading corporate advisory and business analytics firm based in Puerto Rico. In this role, he spearheads the firm’s capital markets services and strategic initiatives. His work focuses on transaction advisory, tax credits, grants, and debt financing programs. Through his leadership, DECA has positioned itself as the go-to firm for companies conducting research and development in Puerto Rico. He has guided these companies through complex incentive programs, ensuring compliance with regulations and facilitating access to non-dilutive capital sources such as federal and local grants and transferable R&D tax credits. His efforts have significantly contributed to the firm’s growth and solidified its standing within the industry.
Founding Partner at PR Innovation Fund
In addition to his role at DECA, Colton is a founding partner at the PR Innovation Fund (PRIF), a specialized lender with approximately $34 million in assets under management. PRIF is dedicated to providing bespoke financing solutions for R&D-focused enterprises in Puerto Rico. As the leader of the underwriting team, he oversees due diligence. He is key in structuring financing opportunities tailored to innovation-driven companies' unique needs. His deep understanding of the challenges faced by these businesses enables him to develop financing strategies that support their growth and long-term sustainability. Under his leadership, PRIF has become an essential resource for Puerto Rico companies focused on research and development.
Founding Member of Assured Cyber Solutions
Wandke is also a founding member of Assured Cyber Solutions (ACS). This veteran-majority-owned cybersecurity firm provides solutions to measure and reduce cyber risks across public and private sectors. In his role at ACS, he oversees the company's financial operations and is integral to driving its strategic growth. His background in mergers and acquisitions and his experience in capital raising within the technology sector have allowed him to contribute significantly to the company’s expansion and development. ACS's ability to deliver cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions is mainly due to Colton’s leadership, which has helped the company navigate the complexities of the technology industry.
Experience in Investment Banking and Private Equity
Before starting his entrepreneurial journey, Colton gained valuable experience in investment banking and private equity. He led multiple buy-side and sell-side M&A transactions and participated in substantial debt and equity capital raises. His work focused on the Life Sciences and Technology industries, providing him with a strong foundation for guiding high-growth, innovation-oriented businesses. This experience in private equity and investment banking allowed Wandke to hone his financial structuring and transaction advisory skills, which have been crucial in his later work with various companies in Puerto Rico and beyond.
Educational Background and Professional Credentials
Colton holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance from the SDSU Fowler College of Business, where he developed a strong understanding of financial markets and corporate finance. In addition, he has earned the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) designation, which underscores his expertise in alternative investments. His academic background and professional credentials have played a key role in his ability to navigate complex financial landscapes and provide valuable insights to the companies he works with.
Continued Leadership and Growth
Colton’s leadership and financial acumen continue to drive growth and success for the companies he is involved with, including DECA Analytics, PR Innovation Fund, and Assured Cyber Solutions. His ability to provide innovative financial solutions and his deep understanding of capital markets have allowed these firms to thrive in an ever-evolving business environment. His strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities have positioned him as a trusted advisor and leader within his industry.
Colton Wandke’s career has been marked by his consistent ability to deliver results through innovative financial solutions, strategic advisory services, and leadership. His work has significantly impacted the companies he has worked with, and his continued contributions will undoubtedly shape the future of the industries he is involved in. Through his expertise and dedication, he has proven to be a driving force in corporate finance and entrepreneurship.
Portfolio: http://coltonwandke.com
