Mr Van Gamper has been a serial entrepreneur for most of his professional career.
He has been active in many different industries, including residential and commercial real estate development, oil and gas ventures, the coal industry, sports training, restaurant concepts, and unique asset-backed bond instruments. Overall, he has been involved in the successful start-up and operations of more than 50 companies and projects in his storied career.
Highlights of Mr. Van Gamper’s ventures include, but are not limited to:
REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT
- Hollywood, Florida – Conversion of a 230-unit apartment complex to condominiums
- Singer Island – updating and expanding retail properties – eventually sold to Disney World
- Big Sand Lake – 420-unit long-term rental development
MR. B’S RESTAURANT GROUP
Developed this specialty casual dining concept and opened a 17-location chain across Michigan.
COAL BROKERAGE
Opened and developed a West Virginia sales operation focused on customers in South Korea. At its height, it grew to $390 million in annual revenues.
OIL AND GAS VENTURES
Specializing in speculative drilling. Was involved with the drilling of over 72 wells.
SPORTS TRAINING
The Great Lakes Athletic Company – developed and opened an 86,000 sq ft specialty sports training complex.
BOND DEVELOPMENT
A principal in the development of rated bonds backed by unique assets that were highly liquid.
In addition to his position here at Firebird Partners, Mr. VanGamper is Chief Financial Officer and Director of VanGraham & Associates.