Since stepping away from corporate life in 2021, Dr. Tony Jacob has expertly leveraged his family fund to back technology and industries he sees as genuinely trailblazing — ventures that solve real-world problems rather than simply follow the hype.
His impressive ability to spot human potential, combined with a focus on sustainable, impactful solutions, gives his tech investing style a refreshingly authentic approach.
It’s often said that you’re not just investing in an idea but in the person behind it, something largely intertwined with Dr. Tony Jacob’s leadership philosophy. He speaks candidly about the importance of connecting with founders on a human level. “If I like the person, their idea, and it’s something that I could explain in a sentence … I would probably consider it,” he shares.
He looks for high IQ, but high EQ — emotional intelligence — is equally vital. “The bigger the egos, the more bulls–t, usually,” he jokes. Ultimately, his experience has shown that balanced, grounded individuals tend to be more resilient and adaptable — traits essential for a business’s success.
He operates under five key action points:
— Prioritize founders with both technical skills and strong interpersonal qualities.
— Look for grounded people who pursue their goals with humility and dedication.
— Establish authentic relationships with founders to align on shared goals and values.
— Identify leaders who are skilled at making their ideas easy to understand.
— Appreciate founders who pair persistence with a willingness to evolve.
Real-World Solutions Over Speculative Gains
Dr. Tony Jacob’s tech investing spans diverse industries, from stress-relief devices like Sensate to eco-friendly fishing nets aimed at promoting sustainability in the Philippines.
This broad portfolio solidifies his commitment to environmental sustainability and resource preservation, aligning closely with his mission to support initiatives that respect and protect natural ecosystems.
Even his entertainment tech investments, such as Topgolf, integrate technology to enhance accessibility and engagement, particularly for a younger audience.
In his own words, these businesses “make things innovative,” using technology not just as an end but as a transformative tool to improve everyday life.
The Flexibility and Freedom of Private Funding
Unique to Dr. Tony Jacob’s tech investing strategy is how it’s entirely self-funded. Unlike traditional private equity firms, he doesn’t rely on outside capital, which gives him the flexibility to make decisions without the pressure of answering to external investors.
Alongside the freedom he values, Dr. Tony Jacob maintains a strong focus on risk management, being transparent about his baseline expectations for returns and stating that he won’t consider a project unless it shows potential to deliver at least a 20% return.
A disciplined focus like this plays a significant role in his success, enabling him to concentrate on ventures that maximize returns while supporting truly pioneering concepts.
Since his transformation from employee to CEO, Dr. Tony Jacob is now focused on shaping a legacy that will outlast him. Part of this vision includes the possibility of writing a book or building a network to support other entrepreneurs through the often-overlooked phase of post-exit.
He believes in building a sustainable investment structure designed for longevity and future growth, learning from established models to create a legacy-focused approach, providing resources for other entrepreneurs, creating a supportive community, exploring initiatives that can offer guidance and mentorship to founders, and aiming to leave a lasting impact, shaping a vision that goes beyond financial returns.
