Our Philosophy
We are born in Montana. We are an idea put to action: the Rural Rockies, Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming, are home to wonderful businesses, communities, and individuals. These states are often overlooked, and the people and businesses here often have limited access to capital and exit opportunities. We want to change that. We want to invest in these individuals and businesses, and play a part in the flourishing of people and communities across the Rural Rockies.
We believe entrepreneurs and warriors are cut from the same cloth. Both require determination and grit. Both demand a resolve to accomplish the mission regardless of the challenges in front of you. Both depend on the ability to operate, and lead, in ambiguous environments.
Walker Creek Partners exists at the intersection of those two truths. We acquire enduring small businesses across the Rural Rockies, and we pair them with Special Operations veterans ready to lead. It's not a career pivot. It's a new mission, with a path to real ownership and a meaningful equity stake in the company they run.
Daniel Lard, Managing Partner
Dan spent six years as a Navy SEAL, conducting more than 100 combat operations worldwide. After leaving the military, he served as Chief Product Officer and later Interim Chairman of the Board at North American Development Group, leading manufacturing and strategic partnerships in the defense sector.
Dan founded Lion Creek Capital, where he spent five years working alongside an experienced investor group, gaining hands-on mentorship and access to capital, deal experience, and structure that shaped how he evaluates and closes acquisitions today.
Dan and his wife, Cara, also owned Mum's Flowers in Whitefish, a boutique floral and gift shop known for its wedding and event florals throughout the Flathead Valley. Under their ownership, the shop's work was featured in publications including Style Me Pretty, Bride's Magazine, and Ruffled. They grew the business substantially before a successful sale in the fall of 2024.
Dan serves as Managing Partner of Walker Creek Partners, leading the firm's work with business owners across the Rural Rockies. In 2025, WCP acquired Sundance Design, a boutique cabinetry firm in Whitefish, Montana, where Dan also serves as Managing Partner.
