Jan 09 2024 55 mins 1
Journeys of Impact and Meaningful Connection: From Leaving with Loss to Building a 'Capitalist Kibbutz' in Silicon Valley
Oded Hermoni, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of J-Ventures Group, carries a profound connection to his Jewish identity, notably shaped by the circumstances of his father's death in the Yom Kippur war. Born just 10 days after this event, Oded was named after his late father, and this experience, along with the support of his mother and stepfather, significantly influenced his life.
His journey, spanning journalism, investments, and entrepreneurship, reflects a commitment to understanding the impact of his vision. Oded's move to Silicon Valley, marked as a major shift, emphasizes the transformative nature of his career choices.
When reflecting on the loss of his father, Oded identifies three significant impacts: his name, his deep commitment to Zionism, and the profound experience of fatherhood. The significance of his name, "Oded Hermoni," becomes particularly poignant when he searches it online and sees it on his father's grave during visits.
Throughout his varied career, including journalism, Oded underscores the importance of a mission-driven approach, aligning with his commitment to making a meaningful impact. He draws parallels between journalism and business, emphasizing the need to put ego aside, connect with people, and provide value.
His involvement in various impact and social activities, as well as founding J-Ventures Group (J-Ventures+J-Impact), a Silicon Valley based Upside down VC fund with $70M AUM that he calls a "Capitalist Kibbutz"", to connect Israeli Startupsand Jews through investments. This further demonstrates his dedication to fostering connections within the Jewish community.
J-Ventures is a unique VC model empowered by 430 men & women. It's the only VC backed by over 150 other GPs from VC funds, by over 100 serial founders (and invested in 18 of them), and by 200 Executives. The model changes the paradigm of GP/LP and Also of VC/ Founders.
Oded's perspective on building a company emphasizes creating a positive community and inclusive environment, where everyone feels part of something significant. The emphasis on choosing colleagues based on shared values reflects Oded's belief in mutual support during challenging moments. Therefore, ask yourself both as an investor & a founder: "Are you a person I would enjoy being in his company for 7 years?" and then make a choice.
