Lauder Partners LLC

Overview

Lauder Partners LLC is a venture capital firm based in Atherton, California, focusing on investments in the technology sector. The firm primarily manages the capital of Gary Lauder and his family members, targeting companies that are making radical innovations rather than incremental changes. Lauder Partners invests both directly in companies and in various funds, including venture capital funds. The firm's investment interests include information technology, TV technology, security (excluding computer security), telecommunications, and Internet technologies, while excluding content and cable programming. Direct investments are considered only in the United States and Canada, with a preference for opportunities near Silicon Valley. Initial investment sizes typically range from $500,000 to $5 million. Lauder Partners emphasizes its sole interest in equity investments, distinguishing itself from companies that seek to acquire businesses. The firm does not hire associates, interns, or other investment professionals as employees. Gary Lauder is the Managing Director of Lauder Partners LLC and has been a venture capitalist since 1985, investing in over 170 private companies. He serves on the Advisory Council of the Aspen Institute Science & Society Program and the Board of Governors of the Alzheimer's Drug Discovery Foundation. In the 1980s, he worked at the venture firms of Aetna, Jacobs & Ramo Technology Ventures, and Wolfensohn Associates. He holds a BA in International Relations from the University of Pennsylvania, a BS in Economics from the Wharton School, and an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business. He is the co-creator of the Aspen Institute's Socrates Society with his wife, Laura, and is a member of the inaugural class of the Aspen Institute's Henry Crown Fellowship Program. Gary Lauder is also a co-inventor of 17 patents and has spoken at over 150 industry forums. He has published several articles about the future of telecommunications and computing.

Investment Focus

• Focus on companies making radical innovations
• Exclusion of content and cable programming investments
• Preference for investments near Silicon Valley
• Equity investments only, not acquisitions

Portfolio Companies