The venture capital and startup scene is no longer exclusive to tech giants and business magnates. Big names from Hollywood and the sports world are now joining the action. From Robert Downey Jr. to Ashton Kutcher and Serena Williams to Cristiano Ronaldo, A-list celebrities use their wealth and influence to support innovative startups, shaping the future across industries. Undoubtedly, their investments are already making a major impact worldwide.
Olivia Wilde is the new celebrity investor!
Joining this list is actor, director, and producer Olivia Wilde. As per Bloomberg, famous for her roles in “Tron: Legacy” and “Don’t Worry Darling,” Wilde quietly launched venture firm Proximity Ventures late last year.
She launched the early- and growth-stage investment fund based in New York with Neil Sirni, formerly of Roc Nation’s venture division Arrive (led investments in Epic Games, and SpaceX among others); Jason Mack, formerly of Mack Ventures; and Santi White, the musician known as Santigold.
Proximity Ventures plans to invest in companies in the consumer and enterprise sectors. The firm has already inked four investments, including Pendulum Therapeutics, a biotech company. Furthermore, it was reported that Proximity Ventures.
The rise of celebrity investors
This trend has injected a new level of excitement and accessibility into the world of investing. These high-profile individuals from diverse fields such as entertainment, sports, and technology are not only making waves with their investment portfolios but also inspiring a new generation of investors.
Celebrity VCs are reshaping the investment landscape, bringing fresh perspectives and challenging traditional norms. Their success stories and unconventional journeys inspire young people to embrace risk, consider non-traditional careers, and prioritise diversity and inclusion. By supporting underrepresented founders and investing in values-driven startups, they drive social impact and innovation. Through mentorship and knowledge sharing, celebrity VCs foster a supportive community, making venture capital accessible and inspiring a new generation of investors to prioritise impact alongside financial returns.