#USA #San Francisco #AI Leaders #Founders Future #San Francisco Office

Founders Future Expands to San Francisco

Founders Future, an investment platform dedicated to nurturing the next generation of global technology leaders, has opened a new office in San Francisco. This strategic move aims to enhance ties between European and American innovation ecosystems while promoting the emergence of AI-focused leaders. The newly established office, located in the iconic One Ferry Building, signifies Founders Future’s commitment to bridging entrepreneurs and investors worldwide.

The San Francisco team is already making strides, having closed two deals shortly after commencing operations. The opening signals a significant enhancement in the firm’s operational capabilities, allowing for direct investments in U.S.-based startups. This expansion aligns with Founders Future’s mission to support European companies looking to scale in the U.S. market and American AI startups seeking growth opportunities in Europe.

To bolster this venture, Founders Future appointed Dulcie fforde and Jonathan Karlson to lead operations in the U.S. These two experienced professionals carry a wealth of industry knowledge and connections, enhancing the firm’s established transatlantic network. Both will support and guide investment strategies, particularly focusing on artificial intelligence and consumer-related ventures.

Key Appointments

Dulcie fforde, a seasoned partner, brings a unique blend of operational and investment experience to Founders Future. She previously worked at Baillie Gifford, where she was involved in investments in exponential-growth companies such as Airbnb, Brex, Faire, and Nubank. Following her tenure in these high-profile firms, fforde further refined her skills at Homebound and Uber, where she faced the challenges of rapidly scaling startups. Her deep involvement in Silicon Valley’s vibrant ecosystem makes her a valuable asset to lead investments in AI and consumer sectors at Founders Future.

Jonathan Karlson, a senior associate, likewise offers a robust background in technology investments. He previously served at ICONIQ Capital and BlackRock, advising tech entrepreneurs and families on direct investments. With a degree in Economics and Computer Science from Dickinson College, Karlson combines analytical prowess with extensive experience in venture capital. At Founders Future, his focus is on analyzing early-stage companies and fostering investor relationships to build transatlantic synergies.

Future Plans

In line with its ambitious expansion, Founders Future intends to recruit additional talent in growth, investor relations, and operational capacities. The firm has set its sights on managing a portfolio of €1 billion in assets and plans to launch a transatlantic growth fund in 2026.

Marc Menasé, one of the founding partners of Founders Future, articulates the firm’s global ambition: “Our goal is to build an international investment platform that supports visionary founders wherever they may be. By linking Europe and the U.S. through an AI-centered vision, we are executing our transatlantic mission and backing the next generation of global tech champions.”

Conclusion

With the establishment of its San Francisco office, Founders Future is laying the groundwork for its ambitious growth strategy, connecting tech innovators on both sides of the Atlantic. As the firm forges ahead in the investment landscape, it aims to support emerging leaders in AI and foster meaningful collaborations that can drive technological advancements for the future.