How does private equity change surrogacy? Caitlyn Devine, Executive Director at Center for Surrogate Parenting (CSP), joins Erin Quick from Simbe to share how CSP navigated the transition from family-run agency to private equity investment—without losing sight of their mission or humanity. We dig into what PE means for day-to-day operations, affordability, and community for intended parents, plus how data and tech can actually help keep the personal touch.

Key Takeaways:

• Private equity can improve agency infrastructure—but success depends on aligning with core values and mission.
• CSP’s transition to private equity investment has strengthened—not diluted—their focus on people and relationships.
• Business efficiency and the “human touch” aren’t mutually exclusive. Technology can help free up time for more personal, compassionate support.
• Affordability is still a major barrier. More data and operational support could open doors for more intended parents.
• Intended parents often feel isolated. Agencies should focus on building genuine community, not just managing cases.
• Surrogacy is more than a medical transaction—it’s a hospitality experience.
• Transparency and open communication are essential when navigating big changes like outside investment.
• Surrogates care about agency values, not just compensation or perks.
• Private equity brings stability and fresh insights, but the heart of the agency must remain front and center.

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction: Surrogacy and Private Equity
01:24 – CSP’s Story: From Family Agency to Private Equity
03:50 – How PE Changed Operations (and What Didn’t Change)
06:51 – Business Process vs. Personal Touch: Where’s the Line?
09:08 – Culture & Values: Keeping What Matters in a Corporate World
11:33 – Surrogates’ Views: What Do They Notice?
14:20 – Critics & Skeptics: What Private Equity Gets Wrong (and Right)
16:49 – Upgrades: Tech, Infrastructure, and New Capabilities
20:41 – The PE Playbook: What’s Actually Useful?
21:56 – Decision-Making and Agency Dynamics: Who Calls the Shots?
24:28 – Efficiency, Innovation, and the Role of Data
26:10 – Giving Families Options: Choice and Accessibility
26:35 – Stability: Can PE-Backed Agencies Offer More Security?
29:29 – Looking Ahead: Hopes for the Next Generation of Surrogacy
31:55 – Why Community Support for Intended Parents Still Matters