Jon Medved’s Journey: From Venture Capitalist to ALS Advocate
Jon Medved, a prominent figure in Israel’s venture capital scene and founder of OurCrowd, has recently been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. This progressive neurodegenerative disorder affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to loss of muscle control and, eventually, paralysis. Medved’s diagnosis has led him to step down from his role as CEO of OurCrowd, transitioning to the position of Chairman to focus on strategic initiatives and global expansion.
Medved’s journey into the tech world began when he moved from California to Israel in his twenties. He founded and sold several tech companies before turning to venture capital. In 2013, he established OurCrowd, a pioneering platform that democratized venture capital by allowing accredited investors worldwide to participate in funding startups. Under his leadership, OurCrowd has backed approximately 500 portfolio companies, achieving around 74 exits, including the recent $525 million sale of infrastructure planning startup Locusview to Itron.
Despite the challenges posed by his ALS diagnosis, Medved remains committed to contributing to the tech ecosystem. He has invested in numerous health tech startups, many of which are now playing a crucial role in managing his condition. For instance, OurCrowd portfolio company D-ID, in collaboration with voice AI startup ElevenLabs and the ALS-focused Scott-Morgan Foundation, has developed an AI-powered avatar system designed for people with ALS. This technology creates a digital twin that preserves the user’s voice, face, and mannerisms, enabling communication even as the disease progresses.
Medved’s investments also include companies like OncoHost, which uses AI to personalize immunotherapy treatments, and others specializing in next-generation genome sequencing and chronic condition management. These technologies are not only advancing healthcare but are also providing Medved with tools to navigate his own health challenges.
Reflecting on his diagnosis, Medved emphasizes the importance of health and the impact of technology in improving quality of life. He remains optimistic and determined to continue his work, stating, I’m far from over, ok? I want to continue to contribute, both to OurCrowd and the overall ecosystem. So I fully intend to not go off [quietly] into this good night.
Medved’s story underscores the profound connection between personal experience and professional endeavors, highlighting how investments in health technology can come full circle to benefit not only society at large but also the investors themselves.
