Justin Waldron

Justin Waldron, a prominent figure in the gaming and consumer technology sectors, has transitioned from a successful entrepreneur to a prolific angel investor. As a co-founder of Zynga, where he served as EVP of Product, and later as co-founder and President of Playco, Waldron brings a wealth of operational experience in building and scaling products to massive user bases. This deep industry insight forms the bedrock of his investment strategy, allowing him to identify and support promising early-stage ventures.

Waldron's investment thesis is primarily centered on companies within the gaming, social platforms, and broader consumer internet spaces. He seeks out founders with strong product vision, a focus on user experience, and the potential to disrupt established markets or create entirely new ones. His portfolio reflects a keen eye for innovation, often backing companies that leverage network effects and engage large communities, mirroring the success he achieved with Zynga's social gaming empire.

As an angel investor, Justin Waldron is remarkably active, having made over 100 investments in various startups. He has also taken lead investor roles in more than 30 deals, indicating a significant level of conviction and involvement in his portfolio companies. His notable investments include early stakes in highly successful companies such as Robinhood, Discord, and Superhuman, underscoring his ability to spot future industry leaders. For early-stage companies, his typical first check size generally ranges from $100,000 to $750,000, reflecting his commitment to providing meaningful capital to accelerate growth.

Beyond financial backing, Waldron is known for providing strategic mentorship and leveraging his extensive network. His experience in navigating the complexities of product development, user acquisition, and scaling a business from inception to billions in revenue offers invaluable guidance to founders. This hands-on approach and operational expertise make him a highly sought-after angel investor in the tech ecosystem.