Biography of Rohan Silva: Founder of Factory Australia & Second Home -Entrepreneur
Rohan Silva: A Journey of Innovation and Impact
Early Foundations in Education
Rohan Silva’s remarkable career began with a strong
educational foundation that would fuel his entrepreneurial journey. He attended
the prestigious Royal College of Art, where he was deeply immersed in
innovation. Later, he took on a significant academic role as a Visiting
Professor at the Royal College of Art in 2023, contributing his expertise in
shaping the minds of future innovators.
Senior Fellow at LSE Cities
From 2017 to 2021, Rohan also served as a Senior Visiting
Fellow at LSE Cities, a division of the London School of Economics and
Political Science (LSE). His work during this period revolved around urban
innovation and creative thinking, exploring the intersection of technology,
design, and policy. His role at LSE Cities showcased his commitment to
promoting practical, sustainable solutions in city environments.
Chairing Founders Factory Australia
In April 2024, Rohan took on an exciting new challenge when
he became the Chair of Founders Factory Australia. This venture studio has a
mission to back and build new companies, offering capital, expertise, and
operational support. Under Rohan’s leadership, Founders Factory Australia
continues to foster innovation, particularly in the fields of climate change,
fintech, and health, bringing together exceptional entrepreneurs and industry
leaders to create transformative businesses.
Orwell Prize for Political Writing
Rohan’s passion for intellectual discourse extends beyond
entrepreneurship into the realm of politics. In December 2023, he began his
role as a judge for the Orwell Prize for Political Writing, an esteemed UK
award recognizing outstanding political journalism. His position as a judge
highlights his deep engagement with contemporary political issues and his
commitment to elevating important voices in the political sphere.
The Birth of Second Home
One of Rohan’s most impactful entrepreneurial ventures is
Second Home, a workspace and cultural venue that he co-founded in 2014. Based
in London, Lisbon, and Los Angeles, Second Home’s mission is to support
creativity and entrepreneurship. The biophilic design of the spaces aims to
foster a sense of community, bringing together diverse individuals and
industries. Under Rohan’s guidance, Second Home has become a prominent hub for
creative minds across the globe.
Creating Libreria Bookshop
In addition to Second Home, Rohan co-founded Libreria, an
independent bookshop located in London. Opened in 2016, Libreria offers a
curated collection of books, creating a space for intellectual exchange. The
bookshop has become a cultural cornerstone in the city, contributing to
London’s rich literary scene and promoting the exchange of ideas through
literature.
Biography of Rohan Silva: Founder of Factory Australia & Second Home -Entrepreneur/creative workspace and cultural venue/startup/age/net worth
A Voice in the Media
Rohan’s influence extends to media as well. Since 2014, he
has been a columnist and book reviewer for several respected publications,
including the Evening Standard, The Times, and The Observer. Through his
columns, Rohan engages readers on a variety of topics ranging from political
analysis to cultural commentary, cementing his position as a thought leader in
both business and politics.
The Impact of Second Home
Second Home has transformed the way we think about
workspaces. It is not just a place for professionals to conduct business; it is
a cultural venue that brings people together to collaborate and innovate. The
spaces are designed with the well-being of individuals in mind, with lush
greenery and open, light-filled areas that encourage creativity. As a B Corp
certified company, Second Home is committed to social and environmental
responsibility.
Securing Funding for Innovation
As the CEO and founder of Second Home, Rohan Silva
successfully secured over £50 million in funding from a range of prominent
investors. These investors include high-profile figures like Yuri Milner,
Martin Lau, and firms such as Index Ventures and Atomico. With this support,
Rohan has been able to scale Second Home internationally, further solidifying
its reputation as a global leader in innovative workspaces.
A Policymaker at Heart
Before founding Second Home, Rohan worked in the UK
government as a Senior Policy Adviser to Prime Minister David Cameron. During
his time in government, he worked across various policy domains, advising on
issues related to economic development, innovation, and the digital economy.
This experience in public policy has provided Rohan with a unique perspective
on the intersection of government, business, and technology.
Founders Factory: A Global Vision for Startups
Rohan’s leadership extends to his role at Founders Factory,
where he plays a pivotal part in building and funding startups alongside global
corporations. Founded by serial entrepreneurs Brent Hoberman and Henry Lane
Fox, Founders Factory brings together capital, operational support, and
industry expertise to help startups grow. With a focus on diverse industries,
Founders Factory has helped launch hundreds of businesses, many of which have
gone on to raise significant funding.
Advocating for Entrepreneurship
As a champion of entrepreneurship, Rohan has continually
advocated for the power of startups to drive economic growth and innovation.
His work with Founders Factory and Second Home reflects his belief that
supporting early-stage companies is key to solving global challenges. By
offering mentorship, funding, and a collaborative environment, Rohan has played
an instrumental role in nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Rohan’s Legacy in Innovation
Rohan Silva’s career reflects a deep commitment to
innovation, creativity, and social impact. Through his ventures like Second
Home, his leadership at Founders Factory, and his influence in policy and
media, Rohan has helped shape the future of entrepreneurship. He continues to
push boundaries and inspire others to think differently, creating spaces where
ideas can thrive and businesses can grow. His legacy will undoubtedly continue
to inspire future generations of innovators.
Timeline for story
Early 2000s: Attends Royal College of Art, developing a
foundation in innovation.
2014: Co-founds Second Home, a creative workspace and
cultural venue.
2016: Co-founds Libreria Bookshop in London, contributing to
the literary scene.
2017-2021: Serves as Senior Visiting Fellow at LSE Cities,
focusing on urban innovation.
2014-Present: Writes columns for major UK publications,
engaging in political and cultural discourse.
2018: Secures over £50 million in funding for Second Home's
international expansion.
2023: Becomes a Visiting Professor at the Royal College of
Art.
December 2023: Begins serving as a judge for the Orwell
Prize for Political Writing.
April 2024: Becomes Chair of Founders Factory Australia,
fostering innovation across industries.
Ongoing: Continues to advocate for entrepreneurship and
innovation globally.
