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Cyberstarts General Partner Lior Simon was raised to overlook the differences between men and women. She said, “I grew up in the states, participated in all kinds of sports, and there were many hard-working first-class women in my family.”
From an early age, Simon was taught to do whatever he liked or had a passion for, finding something that connected with his values. “The debate was never about men or women. I grew up with a lot of cousins. We got along very well, the message was always the same, it was always equal.”
Simon started his career at Sequoia Capital, initially working in the back office, studying industrial engineering and management. When it was time to leave, they asked her to stay, but in a different role. I made the decision and I became an analyst.I was the entry point to the fund.At the time it was 100% up to 1,200 companies a year.It was a real learning experience and a great adventure.”
Following Sequoia, in January 2016 Simon launched one of Israel’s first fintech-focused funds and was Head of Israel at Arbor Ventures. She recalls people frowning and questioning the relationship between Israel and fintech. “I was a big believer in a very focused model. Sequoia was a great brand and a great machine. You can become an investor and provide more value to founders.”
It was three years later that Simon rejoined forces with his Cyberstart partner and former Sequoia colleague Giri (Ranan). Cyberstarts is an early stage cybersecurity venture capital fund launched in 2018. Simon he joined in 2020. He also has a $200 million opportunity in his fund for follow-up investment. Invest early. Except for one investment, all 17 investments at the time of decision were made while unincorporated at the time. That’s my passion. ”
CTech’s She-VC series follows the stories of various female partners and senior managers of Israeli venture capital funds. Only 16% of partners in Israeli venture capital firms are women, and only 9% of investment partners. This raises the question of how many female founders can get investment and speaks to the industry as a whole.
What advice would you give to women who want to be on top?
“I advise women to surround themselves with supportive people. Women tend to feel they need more experience before they can become entrepreneurs, and you don’t, you can jump into the water like everyone else before you. , Even if you fail, you can start over, the important thing is to try.”
Simon thinks for a moment and adds: It’s very difficult, but that’s why you need people around you to support you. A strong core that can lift you up helps turn the noise off. This allows you to focus on what moves you forward, both professionally and personally, each day. looking for people ”
“Yes, I talk to a lot of women. I love helping them find their next role and helping our portfolio companies hire women. I think there should be, diversity is very important and it helps your company succeed.”
How do you juggle your career and family?
“I have three children, ages two to seven. I have a supportive husband and family, so I am doing well,” Simon said. Are you 100% together off the phone? Spending an entire afternoon online or on the phone with your child vs. an hour and a half with your child completely? I choose the latter. thing. “
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