Chicago Atlantic announced that it acted as a sole arranger and lender of a $35 million senior secured term loan to Meridian Rapid Defense Group, LLC (“Meridian”), a U.S.-based security company specializing in deployable vehicle barrier systems.
Founded in 2005, Meridian is a leading vehicle barrier company with multiple products and technologies designated and certified under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s SAFETY Act. The Company designs, sells, and rents crash-tested, mobile steel barrier systems engineered to stop or restrict unauthorized or out-of-control vehicles from harming pedestrians in public environments. Meridian primarily serves government agencies, military organizations, transportation authorities, event operators, and infrastructure owners. Its products are 100% American-made using American steel and support local manufacturing across its network of factories in the United States.
“We are thrilled to partner with such a driven and passionate entrepreneur,” said David Enright, Partner & Head of Direct Lending at Chicago Atlantic. “Meridian is dedicated to helping people enjoy life’s experiences with confidence and peace of mind. We are excited to serve as the company’s primary capital partner and support its continued growth and expansion.”
Meridian has built a differentiated platform over more than 20 years of operation, led by its strong founder and distinguished by early-mover advantage in deployable perimeter security with a portfolio of patented products. In recent years, the Company transitioned away from third-party distributors and built a fully dedicated, in-house national salesforce, materially improving sales execution, customer coverage, and conversion rates. In 2025, Meridian deployed more than 250,000 barriers globally. The Company has established a nationwide network supporting rentals, events, and infrastructure deployments, providing operating scale and geographic diversification.
“Meridian is excited to work with Chicago Atlantic in supporting our growth initiatives,” said Peter D. Whitford, CEO of Meridian. “They have a tremendous understanding of our industry, and we look forward to working with them over the coming years.”
Meridian has been awarded the FIFA World Cup contract covering all U.S. event locations and is pursuing related opportunities, including FIFA fan festivals, while also preparing to support America’s 250th Anniversary celebrations.
About Chicago Atlantic
Chicago Atlantic is a private market lender focused on industries and companies where demand for capital exceeds traditional supply. The firm focuses on loans to esoteric industries, specialty asset-based loans, liquidity solutions and growth & technology finance. Chicago Atlantic has closed over $3.8 billion in credit facilities since inception. Chicago Atlantic’s team of over 100 professionals has offices in Chicago, Miami, New York and London. For more information visit chicagoatlantic.com.
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