David Fialkow

David Fialkow is a prominent American venture capitalist and co-founder of General Catalyst Partners, a significant venture capital firm based in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Established in 2000, General Catalyst focuses on early-stage and transformational investments, backing innovative technology companies such as Airbnb, HubSpot, and Warby Parker. Fialkow has served as the managing director of the firm since its inception, contributing to its growth into a $30 billion entity that emphasizes collaboration with exceptional entrepreneurs.124

Early Life and Education

Born on October 18, 1958, in Boston, Massachusetts, Fialkow attended Colgate University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Fine and Studio Arts. He later obtained a Juris Doctor (JD) from Boston College Law School in 1985. During his time at Colgate, he developed an interest in film, which would later influence his career as a documentary filmmaker.23

Career Highlights

Before founding General Catalyst, Fialkow co-founded several successful companies, including the Last-Minute Travel Company, which became a leading vacation package provider in the U.S. He has also held positions at U.S. Venture Partners and worked with leveraged buyout pioneer Thomas H. Lee.23

In addition to his venture capital work, Fialkow is an award-winning documentary filmmaker. He has produced critically acclaimed films, including Icarus, which won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 2018, and Navalny, which received the same honor in 2023. His filmmaking often focuses on social justice themes, reflecting his commitment to impactful storytelling.245

Contributions and Recognition

Fialkow is actively involved in various nonprofit organizations and serves on several boards, including the Boston Beer Company and the MIT Corporation. His leadership in both venture capital and documentary filmmaking has earned him recognition as one of the most influential figures in Boston's tech landscape.456

Overall, David Fialkow's career is marked by a unique blend of entrepreneurship, investment, and creative storytelling, making him a notable figure in both the business and film industries.