Erik Benson
West Chester, Pennsylvania,United States
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Erik Benson is a highly regarded venture capitalist and the co-founder and Managing Partner at Bedrock, a technology investment firm known for its focus on 'narrative violations' – companies that defy conventional wisdom but possess the potential for significant market disruption. With over two decades of experience in the venture capital industry, Erik has a distinguished track record of identifying and investing in early-stage technology companies that have gone on to achieve substantial success and market leadership. Before co-founding Bedrock in 2017, he was a Partner at Lightspeed Venture Partners for nearly a decade, where he led investments in numerous notable companies. Erik is recognized for his deep understanding of market dynamics, his ability to spot emerging trends, and his commitment to supporting visionary founders in building transformative businesses. His investment philosophy often centers on backing ambitious entrepreneurs who are challenging established norms and creating new categories.
Professional Summary
Erik Benson's work history includes a series of influential roles in various companies. Here is a detailed list of his professional journey:
Notable Achievements
Co-founding Bedrock Capital
Co-founded Bedrock in 2017, establishing a new venture capital firm with a distinct investment thesis focused on early-stage, 'narrative-violating' technology companies. The firm has quickly gained prominence for its successful investments.
Key Early-Stage Investments
Led or played a pivotal role in early-stage investments in numerous highly successful technology companies, including Lyft (while at Lightspeed), Vercel, Rippling, and Stitch Fix, contributing significantly to their growth trajectories and market impact.
Development of 'Narrative Violation' Thesis
Pioneered and championed the 'narrative violation' investment thesis at Bedrock, identifying and backing companies that challenge conventional wisdom and have the potential for outsized returns. This approach has become a hallmark of Bedrock's strategy.
Successful Tenure at Lightspeed Venture Partners
Served as a Partner at Lightspeed Venture Partners from 2008 to 2017, where he was instrumental in sourcing and leading investments in several category-defining companies, helping to solidify Lightspeed's reputation as a top-tier VC firm.
Consistent Track Record of Identifying Disruptive Technologies
Demonstrated a consistent ability over his career to identify and invest in companies leveraging disruptive technologies across various sectors, including consumer internet, enterprise software, and fintech.
Educational Background
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
University of Phoenix - Year 2009
Associates, Associate of Arts in Information Technology
University of Phoenix - Year 2008
Computer Science
Millersville University of Pennsylvania - Year 1998
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Company Overview
ESP Logistics TechnologyESP Logistics Technology, prior to its acquisition by AFS Logistics in 2021, specialized in providing advanced transportation management system (TMS) software, freight audit and payment services, and supply chain visibility solutions. Their technology aimed to help shippers optimize logistics, gain actionable insights into transportation spend, and improve overall supply chain efficiency through a comprehensive suite of tools and expert support.
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