From building startups in a Syracuse dorm room to backing the next generation of founders. Three companies built, 65+ investments made, and still just getting started.
I'm a born-and-raised New Yorker who caught the startup bug early. While still at Syracuse University, I co-founded BrandYourself — a company that helped people take control of their online reputation. That experience hooked me on building things.
Over the next decade, I founded or co-founded three more companies: iFluence (influencer marketing before it was a thing), Launch.it (creator tools), and SPOT (local discovery). Each one taught me something different about product, growth, and what separates companies that make it from those that don't.
In 2015, I made the transition from founder to investor. At New York Venture Partners, I've now backed 65+ early-stage companies — mostly in AI, robotics, and developer tools.
I went back to Columbia for my MBA in 2019, which gave me the formal finance and strategy chops to complement years of hands-on experience. But honestly? The best education has always come from building things.
When I'm not looking at startups, you'll find me debating NYC pizza rankings or trying to convince people that bagels outside New York don't count.
Obsessed with AI, automation, data, and the future of technology
Obsessed with how artificial intelligence and automation are reshaping every industry
Fascinated by turning raw data into actionable insights and competitive advantages
Always exploring what's next — robotics, space, AR/VR, and transformative technologies
Dedicated to being the investor I wished I had when I was building
Co-Founder & CMO
Started my first company while still at Syracuse University. BrandYourself helped people manage their online reputation and personal branding — way before 'personal branding' was a buzzword. The company went on to raise millions and was later acquired.
Co-Founder & SVP
Co-founded a PR platform connecting brands with influencers before 'influencer marketing' was even a category. Early days of social media marketing.
Co-Founder & Head of Product
Built a self-publishing platform for creators to launch and monetize digital content. Ran this for 4 years, learning everything about product development and creator economics.
Founder & Head of Product
Created an app focused on local discovery and experiences in NYC. Another entrepreneurial adventure that taught me about consumer products and growth.
Managing Director
Made the leap from founder to investor. Started sourcing, evaluating, and backing early-stage startups full-time. Brought my operator experience to the other side of the table.
MBA
Went back to school to formalize my understanding of finance, strategy, and venture capital. Columbia's network and NYC location made it the perfect fit.
Active Angel Investor
Crossed 65 angel investments across AI, robotics, developer tools, and more. Still actively backing exceptional founders at the earliest stages.
MBA
2019-2020
Finance, Strategy, and Entrepreneurship
BS, Double Major
2003-2007
Entrepreneurship & Emerging Enterprises, Marketing — Whitman School of Management