Esther Dyson
Description
Esther Dyson is a highly influential and long-standing figure in the technology and venture capital landscape, known for her prescient early-stage investments and insightful analysis of emerging trends. With a career spanning several decades, she has been an active investor since the 1980s, establishing herself as a prominent angel investor with a keen eye for disruptive technologies and impactful ventures. Her investment philosophy often centers on companies that leverage data, promote health and well-being, and address societal challenges, reflecting her broader commitment to improving human experience.
Dyson's diverse portfolio includes early stakes in numerous groundbreaking companies. She was notably an early supporter and investor in internet pioneers such as Flickr and del.icio.us, demonstrating her foresight in the nascent stages of the web. Her investment activities are often characterized by a hands-on approach, providing not just capital but also strategic guidance and network access to founders. She is particularly interested in the intersection of technology, health, and space, often backing ventures that align with her "Way to Wellville" initiative, which focuses on community-led health improvements.
As an angel investor, Esther Dyson typically participates in early funding rounds, providing crucial seed capital to promising startups. While specific check sizes can vary based on the opportunity and her level of involvement, her initial investments generally range from approximately $50,000 to $300,000. Her extensive network and deep understanding of market dynamics make her a highly sought-after investor for entrepreneurs seeking more than just financial backing. She has invested in over 100 companies, according to public records, underscoring her prolific activity and enduring influence in the startup ecosystem.
Investor Profile
Esther Dyson has backed more than 124 startups, with 1 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 6 rounds, about 5% of its total and boasts 29 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Seed, Series A, Angel rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in United States, United Kingdom, Russian Federation.
- Strong thematic focus on Health Care, Software, Internet.
- Typical check size: $50K – $300K.
Stage Focus
- Seed (46%)
- Series A (19%)
- Angel (14%)
- Pre Seed (6%)
- Series B (5%)
- Series Unknown (5%)
- Series C (3%)
- Debt Financing (1%)
- Undisclosed (1%)
- Post Ipo Equity (1%)
Country Focus
- United States (77%)
- United Kingdom (6%)
- Russian Federation (3%)
- Hungary (2%)
- Canada (2%)
- United Arab Emirates (2%)
- Kenya (1%)
- Ireland (1%)
- The Netherlands (1%)
- Finland (1%)
Industry Focus
- Health Care
- Software
- Internet
- Artificial Intelligence (Ai)
- Medical
- Social Media
- Information Technology
- Saas
- Mobile
- Mhealth
Frequently Asked Questions
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