Manna Tree made a majority investment in Zambezi, an independent creative agency focused on brand strategy, storytelling, media, production, and sports and culture partnerships.
The investment expands Manna Tree’s capabilities beyond capital deployment by adding marketing and creative resources that can support its portfolio companies as they scale.
Founded in 2018, Manna Tree focuses on growth-stage and buyout investments across the consumer health and wellness sector.
The firm said the Zambezi transaction strengthens the services available to its portfolio companies alongside existing capabilities in talent, supply chain, and finance.
Zambezi is headquartered in Los Angeles and is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2026.
The agency works with companies across sports, fitness, health and wellness, financial services, travel, and other consumer-focused sectors.
Its capabilities include brand strategy, creative development, media, production through FIN Studios, and sports and culture partnerships.
Manna Tree said Zambezi has helped companies build category leadership and cited its work supporting Liquid I.V.’s growth into a billion-dollar brand.
Manna Tree portfolio companies including Good Culture, Gotham Greens, Generous Brands, New Primal, Plant People, and Verde Farms will have access to Zambezi’s services.
The transaction also expands Manna Tree’s exposure to the intersection of health and wellness with sports, culture, and live consumer engagement.
Zambezi has worked with organizations and brands including the NFL, TaylorMade, ESPN, Under Armour, Club Pilates, Traeger Grills, LPL Financial, UKG, and Atlantis Bahamas.
Following the investment, Zambezi will continue operating independently and serving its existing clients while also collaborating with Manna Tree’s investment and portfolio operations teams.
The agency will remain headquartered in Los Angeles and continue to be led by CEO Jean Freeman and President Laura Stayt.
DLA Piper served as legal counsel to Manna Tree.
Jones Spross served as legal counsel to Zambezi, while Pharus acted as financial advisor to Zambezi.
KEY QUOTES:
“We are not just investing in a growing creative agency – with Zambezi we are investing in the future of our firm and our ability to support the next generation of category-defining health and wellness brands. We know that great companies require more than capital to scale – they need to be the best brand in the marketplace. The Zambezi team brings world-class expertise in storytelling, consumer engagement and brand building that will strengthen how we help companies grow.”
Ross Iverson, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Manna Tree
“Zambezi’s deep expertise in this space, including work with the NFL, TaylorMade, and ESPN, provides a clear pathway into these high-impact consumer touchpoints for not only our portfolio companies but high-potential health and wellness brands across the broader market.”
Ellie Rubenstein, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Manna Tree
“Today’s consumers expect brands to participate in culture, not simply market to them. Manna Tree understands where consumer behavior is heading and shares our belief that strong brands are built through authentic connections, compelling storytelling and dynamic engagement. We’re excited to partner together as we help companies navigate their next era of growth.”
Jean Freeman, Chief Executive Officer of Zambezi
