The story of how I came to choose my next exciting step — joining FortRoss Ventures
I have joined FortRoss Ventures, a global VC with over $340M under management, as a Partner, and this is the story of how I came to choose my next exciting step.
When I was the MD of the 8200 EISP, all I knew was that after this position I would like to join the Venture Capital world in order to continue working with fearless and visionary entrepreneurs.
A few months before I stepped away from the accelerator, I met Dan Avida, a successful Israeli investor based in the Silicon Valley. When Dan suggested that we start working together, it was crystal-clear that (1) this was an opportunity to work with an experienced investor, and (2) I had to learn super fast.
During that time, I’ve learned so many things about how to work with and help portfolio companies (public and private), board dynamics, M&A process, execution/planning in early/growth stage companies and how to build relationships with LPs. I think I know now, more than ever, how a dedicated investor can change the whole journey of the founders. I’m very grateful for this opportunity, and am looking forward to collaborating with Dan in the future.
A few months ago, I was introduced by Dan to Victor Orlovski (founder and MP..), Yacov Nachmanovich (co-founder and GP), and Anurag Chandra (GP) at Fort Ross Ventures, a VC firm that brings together Silicon Valley venture expertise with an extensive network of relationships in the U.S., Israel, and Eastern Europe.
We spent countless hours talking and meeting, getting to know each other. I was very impressed by their entrepreneurial DNA, experience and complementary backgrounds (technology, finance and operations). What I have found most impressive, though, is how humble and genuine they are. They all bring a fresh state of mind to the investment world; an attitude that I think is much needed.
From day one, they were very transparent about where they want to take the fund, what their plans in Israel and the US are, and why they want me to join them. In addition to their huge vision, I like the way they are doing business — very direct, transparent, and open. It really helped me understand why entrepreneurs love to work with them.
Fort Ross Ventures has already invested in some great Israeli startups, including Dynamic Yield (acquired by McDonald’s), Tufin (NYSE: TUFN), Thetaray, and eToro. My goal is to continue the great work they have done so far, by investing in promising startups (our focus is Series A-D, check size between $1M and $10M).
I’m grateful to Victor, Yacov and Anurag, for trusting me to lead the investments in Israel and the US East Coast. I’m very excited and can’t wait to see what the future holds..
If you are an early stage startup and would like to speak — Yalla, PM me @ Sharin@fortross.vc
And, now back to business :)
