Stephens Group, Inc. takes equity position in Etigra

May 8, 2006

(CARY, NC)

Etigra™ today announces that Stephens Group, Inc. has taken an equity position in Etigra.

"The decision to expand Etigra from a marketing agent to a company holding its own technical and end-use registrations advances our business model and commitment to the industry and customers," said J.J. Grow, Etigra President and Chief Executive Officer. "But pursuing these registrations requires capital, and we are pleased to be partnering with Stephens as our portfolio continues to expand."

Working with Stephens Group, In., a Little Rock, Arkansas-based investment banking and private equity firm, allows Etigra the financial strength to achieve the unrestricted growth that is consistent with the company’s commitment to deliver the broadest portfolio of post-patent pesticides. Stephens Group, Inc. is one of the premiere investment firms in the country, dating back to 1933.

"We relying closely on the management teams we partner with to make decisions and drive the business," said Doug Martin, Executive Vice President, Stephens Group, Inc.

Stephens Group, Inc. invests in a wide variety of industries. Agriculture is one of the industries in which Stephens Group, Inc. focuses, and their knowledge of the crop and non-crop pesticide business has already proved to be a competitive advantage.

Etigra is a privately held company offering post-patent pesticide solutions. The company offers multiple products for turf and ornamental, pest control, vegetation management and forestry, and crop.