BEN GILBERT

Ben Gilbert stands as a prominent figure in the technology and venture capital landscape, particularly known for his role as a Managing Director at Pioneer Square Labs (PSL). Based in Seattle, PSL operates with a distinctive model, functioning both as a startup studio that conceives and builds new companies from scratch, and as a venture capital fund that invests in early-stage technology ventures. In this capacity, Ben is instrumental in identifying market opportunities, validating business ideas, recruiting founding teams, and providing the crucial initial capital and operational support needed to transform concepts into thriving businesses.

Gilbert's investment focus at PSL is broad, reflecting the studio's diverse approach to innovation. He is deeply interested in disruptive technologies and business models across various sectors, including enterprise software, consumer applications, artificial intelligence, developer tools, and the future of work. His expertise lies in recognizing nascent trends and backing founders who are poised to create significant impact. Through PSL, he has been involved in the successful launch and growth of numerous companies, contributing to the vibrant Seattle tech ecosystem.

Before co-founding Pioneer Square Labs, Ben Gilbert honed his skills and insights at several key organizations. He served as a Principal at Madrona Venture Group, a leading Pacific Northwest venture capital firm, where he gained extensive experience in venture investing and portfolio management. Prior to his venture capital career, Gilbert was a co-founder of Simple, a pioneering digital banking startup that was later acquired by BBVA. His early career also includes a tenure at Microsoft, providing him with a foundational understanding of large-scale technology development and operations.

Beyond his work at PSL, Ben Gilbert is widely recognized as the co-host of the highly acclaimed 'Acquired' podcast. Alongside David Rosenthal, he delves into the history and business strategies of iconic companies and major acquisitions, offering deep analytical insights that resonate with entrepreneurs, investors, and tech enthusiasts globally. This platform further showcases his profound understanding of business strategy, market dynamics, and the intricacies of company building and value creation. His multifaceted career, combining operational experience, venture investing, and thought leadership, positions him as a valuable resource and influential voice in the startup and investment community.