EXHIBIT 23.1
 
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
 
We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-141827) pertaining to the Triangle Capital Corporation 2007 Equity Incentive Plan of our reports dated February 24, 2009, with respect to the consolidated financial statements and financial highlights of Triangle Capital Corporation, included in the Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 2008.
 
/s/  Ernst & Young LLP
 
Raleigh, North Carolina
February 24, 2009