Enterprise Software Veterans Launch Izzi Software, Announce ColeSoft as First Mainframe Industry Acquisition

Company plans multiple acquisitions in IBM z and IBM Power Sectors in 2025

MINNEAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Izzi Software today announced that it has completed the acquisition of ColeSoft, a Virginia-based developer of debugging products for software engineers and support staff working on IBM mainframes, and is currently exploring numerous other acquisitions in the enterprise software space. The company also named mainframe veteran Jennifer Nelson as CEO of Izzi, which is backed by Big Band Software. Nelson, a former United States Air Force intelligence analyst, spent more than 15 years at Rocket Software before serving as a global vice president at Diebold Nixdorf.

Mainframes and midrange systems remain foundational to today's modern enterprises, and there is an ecosystem of specialized companies that support these markets. Izzi Software is cultivating a roster of powerhouse solutions by bringing together successful, proven companies that empower users of these platforms to extend the value of their infrastructure investments and drive successful outcomes.

“Mainframes and other enterprise systems still run the world, and our mission is to acquire successful companies that enable users to continue benefiting from the tools and services that they've trusted for years,” Nelson says. “Izzi is building a full-service technology business specializing in the legendary systems that power the modern world, and we are looking to acquire innovative companies that make this ecosystem so vibrant.”

David Cole, founder of ColeSoft, says, “Our z/XDC suite has enhanced the software development process for many customers in the mainframe industry for four decades, and in recent years I have received and ignored numerous ‘partnership’ and buyout inquiries. Izzi was different because their people are from the mainframe world, they know the mainframe software development process, and they understand the importance of our products to our customers. I agreed to partner with them because they convinced me of their commitment to enhancing both the power of z/XDC and its reach in our industry. With their resources behind us, we can grow in ways I could not achieve on my own.”

About Izzi Software

Izzi Software was founded by experienced M&A experts and is led by a team with deep expertise in the IBM i and IBM z environments. The company is owned by Big Band, which has an impressive track record in buying and running B2B SaaS businesses that are growing and profitable, with ARR in the range of $2M to $10M.

About Big Band Software

Big Band Software is a better software holding company for amazing B2B SaaS companies. With a strong focus on culture and leadership development for the businesses they buy, Big Band Software is a great home for people and software that creates more value for more customers year after year. Big Band buys businesses that have high customer retention, showcase profitable growth, and have revenues from two to ten million. For more information, please visit www.bigbandsoftware.com.