Erik Straser

Multiple Founder and CEO focused on consumer technology and new business creation.

Erik Straser is a prominent figure in the venture capital and technology investment landscape. He currently serves as a Partner and Managing Director at ClearSky, a venture capital and growth equity firm.1 2 With over 25 years of experience as an early-stage venture capitalist, Straser brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role.1

Professional Background

Straser's career in venture capital is extensive and impressive. Before joining ClearSky, he held several notable positions:

VC-in-residence at Current by General Electric, working closely with senior leadership and GE Ventures1
Co-president of Stanford Angels and Entrepreneurs1
General Partner at Mohr Davidow Ventures1

Education

Straser's academic background is equally impressive:

Ph.D. in Engineering from Stanford University
M.S. in Engineering from Stanford University
B.S. in Engineering from Harvey Mudd College1

Current Responsibilities

At ClearSky, Straser is not only a Partner but also a member of the Investment Committee.1 His focus areas include software and internet services.2 He plays a crucial role in:

Leading the firm's investment strategies and initiatives
Advising portfolio companies on product development, market positioning, and growth strategies
Serving on the board of directors for companies like Diamanti and Renew Home (formerly OhmConnect)
Acting as a board observer for Mainspring Energy and Ubicquia1

Industry Impact

Straser's influence extends beyond his direct investments. He has served on advisory boards and contributed to various successful exits:

Former member of the advisory board of the Precourt Institute for Energy at Stanford University
Board member for companies that were later acquired, such as Paradata Systems (acquired by Becton, Dickson & Co.) and Recurrent Energy (acquired by Sharp)
Board observer for Preempt Security (acquired by CrowdStrike) and Space Time Insight (acquired by Nokia)1

Erik Straser's LinkedIn username is indeed erikstraser, as mentioned in the query. His extensive experience, educational background, and current role at ClearSky position him as a key player in the venture capital and technology investment sectors.

Experience

Co-Founder at TrialBase

Co-Founder and CEO at Zest Intelligence, Inc.; Member at AI Link, Founder in Residence at AI Fund (2020-2021); Co-Founder, Chief Operating Officer at Motiv Inc (2013-2020); Co-Founder, Head of Sales and Marketing at Gomite (2011-2014); Co-Founder, CMO at GameCrush (2008-2013); Various Roles at Intel Corp (2000-2008); Master's Research Engagement at Accenture (1999); Product Marketing at Matheson Tri-Gas (1996-1998); Research Analyst/Consultant at Hart, McMurphy & Parks (1993-1995); Business Analyst at The Dun & Bradstreet Corporation (1992-1993)

Education

MBA in Information Management and Consumer Insights from The University of Texas at Austin (1998-2000); BA in Finance and Marketing from University of Oregon (1988-1992)