Danielle Strachman

Danielle Strachman is a co-founder and general partner of 1517 Fund, a venture capital firm that focuses on investing in technology startups founded by dropouts, renegade students, and sci-fi scientists.13 Here's an overview of her background and accomplishments:

Professional Experience

1517 Fund: Danielle co-founded 1517 Fund in 2015, where she serves as a general partner. The fund provides angel and pre-seed investments to technology startups, supporting founders who may not fit traditional education or career paths.3

Thiel Fellowship: In 2010, Danielle joined the founding team of the Thiel Fellowship, where she led the design and operations of the program.12 She worked closely with Peter Thiel and has mentored prestigious young founders such as Vitalik Buterin, Austin Russell, and Dylan Field.1

Innovations Academy: Prior to her work with the Thiel Fellowship, Danielle founded and directed Innovations Academy in San Diego. This K-8 charter school served 350-400 students and focused on student-led project-based learning and alternative educational programs.13

Investment Philosophy

Danielle and 1517 Fund have a unique approach to investing:

1. They focus on backing founders who are pursuing education through entrepreneurship rather than traditional university paths.1
2. The fund supports teams with grant, pre-seed, and seed funding for technology startups.2
3. They have developed an "anti-pitch" philosophy, emphasizing a more rational investment framework over flashy marketing pitches.2

Impact and Recognition

Danielle has been an advocate for self-directed learning and alternative education models throughout her career.3 Her work with 1517 Fund has been praised by founders, particularly for the support provided to underrepresented groups in venture capital.5

Danielle Strachman's LinkedIn username is daniellestrachman, as confirmed by the information provided.4