Eric Paley to Serve as Secretary of Economic Development for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
We’re proud to share that Eric Paley, our long-time partner and dear friend, has been appointed Secretary of Economic Development for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts by Governor Maura Healy.
When we started Founder Collective in 2009, our mission was to build the most aligned fund for founders at the seed stage. As entrepreneurs ourselves, we knew that the odds were stacked against founders. Our ambition was to provide capital and support – we wanted to build the venture fund we wished existed when we were starting companies.
Fifteen years ago, capital and principled advice were rare. Today, those challenges persist, but they’re joined by new pressures. For instance, local industries navigating global trade uncertainty, housing and infrastructure limits on talent relocation, the impact of AI on our communities, and an ever-present need to ensure innovation leads to inclusive growth. Navigating this new environment requires new kinds of advocates.
Eric’s investments in companies like Uber, The Trade Desk, WHOOP, Cruise, Airtable and Formlabs have changed their industries. Those who know him best know that his true gift lies in connecting people and catalyzing communities. Whether he’s lecturing at Harvard or MIT, co-hosting Collective Future, or simply making thoughtful introductions, Eric has spent the last 20 years helping the Massachusetts startup ecosystem punch above its weight. We believe that this new role will leverage those talents in ways that will benefit the community for years to come.
Out of respect for the seriousness of this public calling, and in keeping with the impeccable ethical standards he has always championed, Eric cannot participate in Founder Collective related business while in public service.
If you have FC-related questions or inquiries, please reach out to one of us. All of Eric’s portfolio companies will be transitioned to partners at Founder Collective.
That said, if you have ideas for how the Commonwealth can better compete in our current moment, please reach out to Secretary Paley!
Founder Collective’s mission, to build the most aligned seed-stage fund for founders, is and always will be a collective promise, not limited to any one partner. While we’ll miss Eric’s voice in our daily discussions, rest assured Founder Collective remains as committed as ever to our founder-aligned approach and the success of our portfolio.
With gratitude,
David, Micah, Amanda, Joe, and the FC team