?• New York-based Deerpath Capital Management LP has launched a fund to make privately negotiated investments in the debt and equity of lower-middle-market U.S. companies with a focus in energy and natural resources.?The fund targets debt and equity investments between $2- and $20 million in companies with annual revenue between $10- and $100 million.?

In addition to energy, the firm invests in communications, healthcare and other industries.?

Deerpath was founded by Gary Wendt (formerly chairman of GE Capital), James Kirby (formerly a partner at Madison Dearborn Partners) and John Fitzgibbons (chairman of Integra Group.

• The Assiniboine and Sioux tribes of the Fort Peck Indian Reservation in northeastern Montana and Salt Lake City-based Native American Resource Partners have jointly formed Fort Peck Energy Co.

The Fort Peck Reservation covers more than 2 million acres in Montana. The Assiniboine and Sioux tribes together with Native American Resource will co-develop the hydrocarbon-based energy resources on the reservation. Native American Resource will provide business and financial experience for the new venture including access to investment capital through Quantum Energy Partners.