William Blair Increases Stake in Grand Canyon Education

Investment firm boosts ownership in for-profit university by 13.7% in Q3

Mar. 3, 2026 at 7:55am

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William Blair Investment Management LLC increased its stake in Grand Canyon Education, Inc. (NASDAQ:LOPE) by 13.7% in the third quarter, according to a recent SEC filing. The investment firm now owns 118,654 shares of the company's stock, worth approximately $26 million.

Why it matters

Grand Canyon Education is one of the largest for-profit university operators in the U.S., with a focus on online and distance learning programs. The increase in ownership by a major investment firm like William Blair suggests continued confidence in the company's growth prospects and ability to navigate the competitive higher education landscape.

The details

According to the filing, William Blair added 14,291 shares to its Grand Canyon Education position during the third quarter. The firm now owns about 0.42% of the company's outstanding stock. Grand Canyon Education operates a large online university as well as several physical campuses in Arizona, offering bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree programs.

  • William Blair increased its stake in Q3 2026.

The players

William Blair Investment Management LLC

A global investment management firm that oversees over $100 billion in client assets.

Grand Canyon Education, Inc.

A for-profit higher education company that operates Grand Canyon University, one of the largest online universities in the United States.

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The takeaway

William Blair's increased investment in Grand Canyon Education underscores the firm's confidence in the for-profit university's ability to maintain its market position and capitalize on the growing demand for online and distance learning programs.