The 2026 Fastest-Growing Firms

Why It Matters

The data underscores how private‑equity capital is reshaping the accounting sector, accelerating scale and market concentration. Firms that secure PE backing are outpacing peers, signaling a strategic advantage for investors and service providers alike.

Key Takeaways

• PE backs 23 of 26 fastest‑growing firms
• Alan & James Partners grew 332% in 2025
• Richey May posted near 200% growth rate
• 41% of firms achieved double‑digit growth
• Baker Tilly revenue topped $3.5 bn after merger

Pulse Analysis

Private‑equity involvement has become a catalyst for rapid expansion in the accounting industry, as evidenced by the 2026 Fastest‑Growing Firms report. By providing growth capital, operational expertise, and platform synergies, PE firms enable boutique and mid‑market practices to scale quickly, often through bolt‑on acquisitions or strategic mergers. This influx of capital has shifted competitive dynamics, allowing PE‑backed firms to capture larger market share and deliver broader service portfolios, while independent firms struggle to keep pace.

The top performers illustrate the magnitude of this transformation. Alan & James Partners achieved a staggering 332% revenue increase, driven by aggressive client acquisition and likely PE‑sponsored expansion. Richey May’s near‑200% growth and Prosperity Partners’ 104% surge further demonstrate how capital infusion translates into double‑digit top‑line gains. Even legacy firms like Baker Tilly leveraged a high‑profile merger to nearly double revenue, highlighting that strategic consolidation remains a potent growth lever across firm sizes.

Looking ahead, the trend suggests continued consolidation and heightened competition for PE‑backed firms. Accounting practices seeking growth may need to explore partnership models, niche specialization, or technology‑driven efficiencies to attract investment. Meanwhile, investors will likely prioritize firms with scalable platforms and strong client pipelines. The overall industry trajectory points toward fewer, larger entities with diversified service lines, reshaping the landscape for clients, talent, and regulators alike.