About Doriot Venture Labs

The History

General Georges Doriot (pronounced "Dor-ee-oh") is widely recognized as the "Father of Venture Capital.” As the first VC, Doriot achieved a 22% IRR over a 25-year period - still the benchmark for venture success. In his later years, General Doriot was quoted as saying: “People who do well in life understand things that other people don’t understand”. 

This observation directly applies to the world of venture. Much like the game of Texas Hold'em, venture appears to be straightforward and welcoming to anyone with an innovative idea or access to money. However, short of luck, 80% of players end up paying the "fool's tax" while the top 20% rake in above market returns. And like Hold'em, if you can't identify the fool in a venture deal, it's probably you.

Thus, Doriot Venture Labs was launched to serve those who want to be in the top 20% of venture knowledge, where success is ultimately measured by what really matters: returns.

The Team

Professor Gerry Hays, Founder

"The teaching tools we create at Doriot Venture Labs might not seem glamorous, but they provide the essential groundwork for anyone aiming to rank among the top 20% in venture expertise, sparing them the arduous path of learning through costly trial and error."

The Team

Dan Devlin, Co-Founder

“The venture landscape can be opaque and confusing - often by design. Leveling the playing field through education is the quickest way to improve accessibility and performance for founders, investors, and consumers alike”

The Team

Akram Mnif, Co-Founder

“I believe everyone should be educated in venture. The world is changing rapidly and becoming more entrepreneurial and opportunistic”

Get in Touch

Contact the Lab

Contact the Lab

Contact the Lab