Cory Levy

Cory Levy stands out in the startup ecosystem as an early-stage investor, entrepreneur, and community builder with a keen eye for disruptive innovation. His track record spans successful investments, high-impact mentorship, and the creation of platforms that empower the next generation of founders.

Levy's entrepreneurial journey began early. Even before college, he had already interned at prestigious venture firms like Founders Fund, Union Square Ventures, and TechStars—an early indication of his sharp instincts for identifying game-changing startups. Later, he co-founded After School, a teen-focused social network that amassed over 20 million users before being acquihired by Ancestry. This success underscored his ability to build and scale products that resonate with younger demographics.

His Z Fellows initiative epitomizes his belief in betting on technical builders early. By offering $10,000 and mentorship to promising entrepreneurs, Levy positions himself as one of the rare investors willing to take risks on unconventional founders—be they high school dropouts, students, or professionals with side projects. His investment philosophy mirrors that of early-stage pioneers like Paul Graham: conviction in raw talent over polished résumés.

Beyond his own ventures, Levy has backed over 20 startups as an angel investor. His portfolio spans industries such as fintech, cybersecurity, AI, biotech, and crypto, reflecting his broad and forward-thinking approach. Additionally, his involvement with Spearhead, a program designed to help founders become angel investors, highlights his dedication to fostering an ecosystem where successful entrepreneurs reinvest in the next wave of innovation.

Levy’s role extends beyond capital deployment. As an advisor to SignalFire and a board member at DoSomething.org, he actively mentors startups and contributes to initiatives that drive social impact. His belief in community building is also evident in Internapalooza, the largest gathering of Silicon Valley interns and young engineers, which has attracted speakers like Peter Thiel, Marissa Mayer, and Travis Kalanick.

Cory Levy’s influence is not confined to a single niche; rather, he thrives at the intersection of technology, investment, and community. His ability to spot trends early, invest in unproven yet promising talent, and create ecosystems for success makes him a pivotal figure in the startup world. Whether through Z Fellows, angel investing, or thought leadership, Levy continues to shape the landscape of innovation with a rare combination of foresight, generosity, and relentless ambition.

In a startup scene often dominated by traditional VCs, Cory Levy’s willingness to take chances on unconventional founders sets him apart. For anyone looking to build, fund, or understand the future of entrepreneurship, keeping an eye on his next moves is not just advisable—it’s essential.