EVAN WILLIAMS

Evan Williams is a name synonymous with pioneering internet platforms, having co-founded groundbreaking companies like Blogger, Twitter, and Medium. Beyond his indelible mark on social media and publishing, Williams has transitioned into a prominent figure in the venture capital world as a co-founder and General Partner at Obvious Ventures. This firm stands out for its distinctive investment philosophy, focusing exclusively on 'world-positive' companies that aim to solve significant global challenges while generating substantial financial returns.

At Obvious Ventures, Evan Williams plays a pivotal role in identifying and nurturing early-stage startups that align with the firm's core mission. His investment focus areas are broad yet deeply interconnected by the theme of sustainability and positive impact. Obvious Ventures actively seeks companies innovating in sustainable systems, healthy living, people power, and the future of work. This includes sectors such as climate technology, food technology, education technology, and solutions promoting a circular economy. Williams and his team believe that the most impactful and profitable businesses of the future will be those that address critical environmental and social needs.

Williams' career background provides a unique lens through which he evaluates potential investments. His journey began with Pyra Labs, where he created Blogger, one of the first widely adopted web publishing tools, later acquired by Google. He then co-founded Odeo, which famously pivoted to become Twitter, revolutionizing real-time communication. Following his tenure at Twitter, he launched Medium, a platform designed for quality long-form content. These experiences have endowed him with an unparalleled understanding of technology trends, user behavior, and the challenges of scaling disruptive platforms. This deep operational expertise is invaluable to the founders he backs at Obvious Ventures.

Obvious Ventures has built an impressive portfolio under Williams' guidance, featuring companies that exemplify their 'world-positive' ethos. Notable investments include Beyond Meat, a leader in plant-based protein revolutionizing the food industry; Arcadia, which provides clean energy solutions to consumers; and Olly, a wellness brand focused on nutritional supplements. Other impactful ventures include Miyoko's Kitchen, a pioneer in plant-based dairy, and Lilu, developing innovative solutions for new mothers. These investments underscore Williams' commitment to supporting entrepreneurs who are not just building businesses, but also shaping a better future. Through Obvious Ventures, Evan Williams continues to leverage his visionary leadership and investment acumen to drive innovation that benefits both society and the economy.