Biography of Shervin Pishevar : Entrepreneurship , Investor & Innovation
Biography of Shervin Pishevar :
Shervin Kordary Pishevar, born on March 24, 1974, is a
successful Iranian-American entrepreneur known for his work in technology,
investing, and philanthropy.
Ventures and Investments
Pishevar has been involved in various ventures and
investments throughout his career. He co-founded Hyperloop One and served as
its executive chairman. He is also a co-founder and managing director of Sherpa
Capital, a venture capital fund that has supported companies like Airbnb, Uber,
and Robinhood.
Angel Investing and Previous Roles
Beyond his venture capital work, Pishevar has been active as
an angel investor, supporting over 60 companies. Previously, he held a role as
a managing director at Menlo Ventures, where he led investments in notable
companies such as Warby Parker and Tumblr. Pishevar has also founded and
operated technology companies like webs.com and WebOS.
Recognition and Service
Pishevar's contributions have been recognized on various
platforms. He served on the UN Foundation's Global Entrepreneurs Council and
was honored as an Outstanding American by Choice by the U.S. Government.
Additionally, he was appointed by Barack Obama to the J. William Fulbright
Foreign Scholarship Board. In 2016, Pishevar received the Ellis Island Medal of
Honor for his achievements as an American of Iranian descent.
Shervin Pishevar: Early Life and Education
Shervin Pishevar's upbringing and educational journey shaped
his path toward entrepreneurship and innovation.
Family Background and Immigration
Born in Tehran, Iran, Shervin Pishevar is the son of Abraham
Pishevar, a television and radio executive, and Eshrat Pishevar. Due to
political unrest, Abraham moved the family to the United States after facing
threats for broadcasting instructions on leaving Iran. He pursued further
education in Mass Communication at Howard University while working as a cab
driver in Maryland.
Education and Early Leadership
Encouraged by his parents to pursue medicine, Pishevar
attended Montgomery Blair High School, known for its focus on math and science.
As a junior, he was elected as a student member of the Montgomery County Board
of Education, where he advocated for initiatives like an education tax and
charitable donations from student projects.
Academic Pursuits and Research
Pishevar's academic interests expanded during his time at UC
Berkeley, where he majored in molecular cellular biology. He delved into
research on Magainin peptides, which later contributed to the creation of the
Istanbul Protocol, a significant international guideline for documenting
torture. His dedication to scientific inquiry led him to co-found and lead
Berkeley Scientific, the first peer-reviewed undergraduate research journal in
the U.S.
Graduate Studies and Beyond
Continuing his academic journey, Pishevar completed graduate
courses in health economics at the Berkeley School of Public Health. These
diverse educational experiences laid the foundation for his future endeavors in
entrepreneurship, venture capital, and technology.
Shervin Pishevar: Career Highlights (1997-2004)
During the late 1990s to early 2000s, Shervin Pishevar
embarked on a journey of entrepreneurship, pioneering innovative technologies
and ventures.
WebOS and Early Ventures
In 1997, at the age of 23, Pishevar founded WebOS, a
groundbreaking company that developed cross-browser interfaces for the
internet, essentially introducing the concept of a web-based operating system.
His vision was described as "disruptive technology" and garnered
attention for its potential to revolutionize software distribution channels.
Despite WebOS dissolving in 2001, Pishevar and his co-founder retained the
software, which evolved into HyperOffice.
Seges Capital and Ionside Interactive
In 2001, Pishevar co-founded Seges Capital, affiliated with
Vanderbilt University's Technology Company, where he managed investments in
early-stage companies. Concurrently, he spearheaded Ionside Interactive,
focusing on advanced 3D graphics and AI engine development for Pocket PC
software. Additionally, he co-founded Application Corporation, known for
creating the HyperOffice messaging suite.
Webs Inc. and SGN (2005-2012)
Transitioning into the mid-2000s, Pishevar served as the
founding president, COO, and board member of Webs Inc. The company, later
rebranded as Webs, became a prominent social publishing community. In 2008,
Pishevar assumed leadership of Social Gaming Network (SGN), a spinoff of Webs.
Under his guidance, SGN secured significant funding and achieved notable
success before being acquired by MindJolt in 2011. During this period, Pishevar
also held positions at Mozilla Corporation and contributed to the growth of
various startups in the social, consumer internet, and mobile sectors through
Menlo Ventures. He notably led Menlo's investment in Uber's Series B round and
played a pivotal role in nurturing companies like Tumblr, Machine Zone, and
Warby Parker. Additionally, he helped launch the Menlo Talent Fund, supporting
numerous seed-stage startups.
Sherpa Capital: Venture and Investment Evolution
(2013-Present)
Shervin Pishevar's post-2013 endeavors have centered around
the establishment and growth of Sherpa Capital, along with his involvement in
Uber's strategic initiatives.
Formation of Sherpa Capital
In 2013, Pishevar transitioned from Menlo Ventures to
establish Sherpa Capital, a venture capital firm and startup advisor.
Partnering with Scott Stanford, formerly of Goldman Sachs, they aimed to
provide capital, guidance, and incubation support to emerging startups.
Sherpa's initial investment in BackOps marked the beginning of a series of
strategic investments in the tech and consumer sectors.
Fund Growth and Portfolio Expansion
Sherpa Capital's growth trajectory was marked by significant
milestones. In 2014, the firm closed a $154 million fund dedicated to
supporting consumer technology startups. This was followed by the announcement
in 2016 of two new funds totaling $470 million, earmarked for early and
mid-stage investments. By mid-2017, Sherpa had attracted nearly $640 million
from investors, signaling confidence in its investment strategy. The firm
continued to expand its portfolio, backing notable companies such as Uber,
Airbnb, and Munchery.
Involvement with Uber
Pishevar's association with Uber began in 2013 when he
joined as a strategic advisor, later serving as a board observer until 2015.
His role extended beyond advisory, as he actively supported former CEO Travis
Kalanick during times of internal strife. In 2017, Pishevar, along with other
investors, formed the Uber Shareholder Alliance to counter legal actions
initiated by Benchmark, a venture capital firm. Pishevar's efforts included
motions to dismiss cases against Kalanick and challenges to changes in Uber's
shareholder structure. Despite legal battles, Pishevar's commitment to Uber's
success remained steadfast, reflecting his dedication to strategic investment
and advocacy within the tech industry.
Launching Virgin Hyperloop One and Angel Investments
Shervin Pishevar's entrepreneurial journey expanded into the
realm of futuristic transportation with the launch of Virgin Hyperloop One,
alongside his extensive angel and seed investments in various innovative
startups.
Hyperloop One Formation
Responding to Elon Musk's challenge to create a hyperloop,
Pishevar, along with Josh Giegel and Brogan BamBrogan, co-founded Hyperloop One
in late 2014. Initially known as Hyperloop Technologies, the company received a
significant boost with Sherpa Capital leading its first investment round,
raising $37 million. However, internal dynamics led to BamBrogan's departure in
2016.
Transition to Virgin Hyperloop One
In a major development, the Richard Branson-led Virgin Group
invested in Hyperloop One in October 2017, leading to the company's rebranding
as Virgin Hyperloop One. This marked a significant milestone in the company's
journey toward revolutionizing transportation through hyperloop technology.
Leadership Changes and Challenges
Despite these advancements, the trajectory of Virgin
Hyperloop One faced internal challenges. In December 2017, Shervin Pishevar
resigned from both Virgin Hyperloop One and Sherpa Capital amid allegations of
sexual misconduct. Richard Branson assumed control of the company following Pishevar's
departure.
Angel and Seed Investments
In addition to his involvement in Virgin Hyperloop One,
Pishevar has been active as an angel and seed investor, supporting over 60
companies across various industries. Notable investments include Dollar Shave
Club, Cherry, Taskrabbit, and Postmates, reflecting his commitment to fostering
innovation and entrepreneurship beyond his involvement in hyperloop technology.
Biography of Shervin Pishevar : Entrepreneurship , Investor & Innovation / Investor Shervin Pishevar : /Shervin Pishevar :
Diverse Investment
Portfolio
Pishevar's investment portfolio extends beyond
transportation, encompassing diverse sectors such as e-commerce, communication,
and personal grooming. Notable investments include Didi, Warby Parker, Slack,
Dollar Shave Club, and Postmates, underscoring his commitment to backing
innovative startups across various industries.
Immigrant Success Story
Pishevar's journey from Iran to the United States as a child
reflects the quintessential immigrant success story. His achievements in the
tech world serve as a testament to the opportunities and possibilities that
America offers to those with determination and vision.
Shervin Pishevar: Activism and Political Engagement
Shervin Pishevar's activism and political engagement have
extended across various issues, from internet freedom to immigration reform and
innovative solutions for societal challenges.
Internet Freedom and Open Mesh Project
In response to the Egyptian government's internet shutdown
in 2011, Pishevar initiated the Open Mesh Project, advocating for software that
could transform laptops into low-cost internet routers, enabling the creation
of decentralized 'mesh networks'. He furthered his commitment by visiting Egypt
during the Arab Spring protests, witnessing firsthand the power of technology
in grassroots movements for change.
Advocacy for Immigration Reform
Within the United States, Pishevar has been a vocal
supporter of the Startup Visa Act, aiming to introduce a special visa for
immigrant entrepreneurs, fostering innovation and economic growth. His advocacy
underscores the importance of welcoming diverse talent and fostering an
environment conducive to entrepreneurial endeavors.
Innovative Solutions for Public Safety
Pishevar's activism extends to proposing innovative
solutions to societal challenges. In 2016, he introduced a mobile app concept
aimed at facilitating communication between police officers and citizens during
traffic stops, with the goal of reducing incidents of police shootings and
enhancing safety for both parties involved.
Political Fundraising and Engagement
Pishevar has been actively involved in political
fundraising, notably supporting Barack Obama's presidential campaigns and
hosting fundraising events for Hillary Clinton's campaign in 2016. His
contributions underscore his commitment to advancing political causes aligned
with his values and vision for a more inclusive society.
Vision for California's Role in National Politics
Following the 2016 presidential election, Pishevar expressed
support for a California independence movement, emphasizing the state's
potential to influence national politics. However, he clarified that his vision
aimed at enhancing California's impact on national policies rather than
advocating for secession, highlighting his nuanced approach to political
engagement.
Allegations and Legal Battles
Shervin Pishevar faced a tumultuous period marked by serious
allegations, legal battles, and subsequent actions to defend his reputation.
Detainment and Investigation
In May 2017, Pishevar was detained by the City of London
Police following an allegation of rape. Subsequently, he was questioned and
released under investigation. However, the investigation was closed after a few
weeks due to lack of evidence, leading to Pishevar being cleared of the
allegations in July 2017.
Smear Campaign and Legal Response
Following the incident, Pishevar claimed to be targeted by a
smear campaign. A forged police report circulated among journalists, prompting
Pishevar to secure a gag order injunction, barring British press from reporting
his name in connection with the arrest. The injunction was lifted in
mid-November, and Pishevar sought to investigate the source of the forged
report.
Lawsuit Against Definers Public Affairs
In response to the alleged smear campaign, Pishevar filed a
lawsuit against Definers Public Affairs, accusing them of spreading false
rumors about him, including allegations of being a Russian agent and embezzling
funds from Uber. Despite dismissing the lawsuit in February 2018, Pishevar
remained focused on identifying those responsible for the forged police report.
Awards and Recognition
Despite the controversies, Pishevar's achievements and
contributions were recognized by various entities. He was a keynote speaker at
President Obama's Summit on Entrepreneurship and served on the United Nations
Foundation's Global Entrepreneurs Council. Pishevar also received accolades
such as being named an "Outstanding American by Choice" by the U.S.
government and receiving the Ellis Island Medal of Honor in 2016. Additionally,
he was listed in Vanity Fair's "New Establishment" and Forbes Midas
List for his entrepreneurial endeavors.
Keynote Speaker and Advisor
Pishevar's influence extends to the international stage,
where he has served as a keynote speaker at President Obama's Summit on
Entrepreneurship and as an Entrepreneurial Ambassador on State Department
delegations. His advisory roles at fbFund REV and contributions to companies
like Cinemagram and BranchOut further solidify his reputation as a respected
figure in the business community.
Shervin Pishevar: Philanthropic Endeavors
Shervin Pishevar's commitment to philanthropy spans various
causes and organizations, reflecting his dedication to making a positive impact
on society.
Early Philanthropic Initiatives
During his time at the University of California, Berkeley,
Pishevar volunteered in the emergency room at a children's hospital, showcasing
his early dedication to serving others. He also reached out to offer assistance
to a Bosnian children's clinic doctor mentioned in a New York Times article
about the Bosnian War, demonstrating his compassion for those in need.
Continued Engagement and Volunteerism
Throughout his professional career, Pishevar remained
actively involved with several charities, including volunteering with
organizations like Invisible Children and charity: water in Africa. He has also
supported the Bay Area Boys & Girls Clubs of America and served on the
boards of Illuminate the Arts and BUILD, demonstrating his commitment to
community engagement and youth development.
Founding 1% of Nothing and the Cyrus Prize
In 2011, Pishevar co-founded 1% of Nothing, an organization
aimed at connecting startups and their founders with various charitable causes,
emphasizing the importance of giving back to the community. Additionally, in
2013, he established the Cyrus Prize, named after Cyrus the Great, which awards
a $100,000 grant over three years to Iranian inventors, highlighting his
support for innovation and entrepreneurship within the Iranian community.
Personal Commitment to Family
Aside from his philanthropic endeavors, Pishevar prioritizes
his role as a single father to his two children, underscoring his commitment to
family values and personal responsibility. Through both his professional
achievements and personal life, Pishevar continues to embody the spirit of
giving back and making a difference in the lives of others.
Some recent companies where he invested
- Gameto - Drug Discovery
- Limit Break - Entertainment Software
- Pill Sorted - Specialty Retail
- Terraformation - Environmental Services (B2B)
- Nue Life - Clinics/Outpatient Services
- Braintrust - Human Capital Services
- Our Habitas - Hotels and Resorts
- Micromobility.com – Automotive
- Coinmine - Hardware
- Light Field Lab - Electronics (B2C)
Timeline –
1974: Shervin Pishevar is born on March 24th in Tehran,
Iran.
Early 1990s: Pishevar attends Montgomery Blair High School,
where his interest in entrepreneurship and leadership begins to blossom.
1997: At the age of 23, Pishevar founds WebOS, marking the
beginning of his entrepreneurial journey.
Early 2000s: Pishevar co-founds Seges Capital and Ionside
Interactive, venturing into investments and advanced technology development.
2005-2012: Pishevar serves as the founding president of Webs
Inc., later rebranded as Webs, and also takes leadership roles at Social Gaming
Network (SGN). He makes significant contributions to the growth of various startups
through Menlo Ventures.
2013: Pishevar establishes Sherpa Capital, a venture capital
firm focused on supporting emerging startups, and transitions from Menlo
Ventures.
2014: Sherpa Capital closes a $154 million fund dedicated to
consumer technology startups.
2016: Pishevar receives the Ellis Island Medal of Honor for
his achievements as an American of Iranian descent.
Late 2014: Pishevar co-founds Hyperloop One, which later
transitions to Virgin Hyperloop One after investment from the Virgin Group.
2017: Pishevar resigns from Virgin Hyperloop One and Sherpa
Capital amid allegations of sexual misconduct.
2018: Pishevar faces legal battles and launches a lawsuit
against Definers Public Affairs.
