Itai Maron

Thought & Strategy Partner to Startup Founders and CEOs

2024

I help startup founders and CEOs navigate the challenges of building and scaling their companies, focusing on Product-Market Fit, Go-to-Market strategy, and fundraising readiness. My role blends the perspective of an insider VC with the dedication of a co-founder, engaging in high-level strategic thinking, problem-solving, and managing complex relationships with co-founders, board members, and executives.

Startup Mentor, Venture Accelerator

2023

Startup Mentor

2023

Mentor

2020

Venture Partner & Startup Builder

2018 - 2023

Based in Palo Alto, I served as Venture Partner & Startup Builder at Heroic Ventures, an early-stage venture capital firm and studio. In this role, I met with hundreds of entrepreneurs, working hands-on with founders to guide them from inception through various growth stages. Leveraging deep experience in funding and scaling, I helped founders build scalable, venture-backed companies that could thrive in the competitive Silicon Valley landscape. At Heroic Ventures, I gained invaluable insight into what it takes to build and fund exceptional startups, from market validation and fundraising to operational scaling and team building.

EIR | Startup Builder

2019 - 2022

As an Entrepreneur in Residence, I provided strategic guidance and hands-on support to portfolio companies, helping them establish robust business foundations, navigate key inflection points, and prepare for successful funding rounds.

Co-founder / CEO

2021 - 2022

Smart Delivery Networks for Perishables Built a venture-backed business, securing funding, driving sales, and achieving rapid growth. Reached a $1M revenue run rate within 10 months and completed over 100,000 deliveries across the Bay Area.

Co-founder/COO

2019 - 2021

Launched Portobel through Heroic Ventures' Venture Studio model as Co-founder/COO, leading it from concept to business and operational scaling.

VP Business Development & Strategy

2016 - 2018

A Series B visual identification startup founded by the former Head of the IDF Intelligence Branch & 8200 Unit. Joined to lead Business Development and Strategy under Chairman Avi Naor. Spearheaded a new business roadmap and drove sales and market penetration efforts with key strategic retail accounts, including Walmart and Home Depot.

Business and Strategy Consultant

2016 - 2016

Business and Strategy Consultant to the family office of Avi Naor, Founder/ex-CEO of Amdocs [NASDAQ:DOX]

Chief Operating Officer

2013 - 2016

A $10M ARR startup focused on developing, manufacturing, and selling advanced B2B interactive platforms. Led global operations and professional services, building a partner network of IT providers across 50+ countries to drive international growth.

VP Operations & Business Development

2012 - 2013

A Seed startup (previously known as 'LifeBeam') specializes in high-awareness wearable technology (transitioned from aerospace to fitness). Led the company's product and business roadmap and managed operations.