As we close the book on 2024, I want to take a moment to say thank you—thank you to my family, partners, advisors, founders, investors, and friends who have believed in this journey. It hasn’t been easy, but finding people who align with our actions and vision has been the most humbling gift. Your support means everything.

To my wife: This year has been challenging, no doubt, but I’m endlessly grateful for your strength, patience, and love. Life is messy, unpredictable, and extraordinary, and I hope we continue to muddle through wherever it may go. To my kids: Thank you for showing me what it means to be curious, to laugh without hesitation, and to see the world with fresh eyes. You inspire me to grow and, more importantly, to find joy in the little things.

Now, let’s reflect on the year that was.

This year, our fund hit several milestones. We joined two accelerators, dropped out of one (hey, not every match is perfect), and finished the other strong. A special shoutout to the team at Recast—it was an incredible experience to work alongside like-minded GPs who I’ll continue to cheer for and celebrate as they soar.

We also launched a newsletter, starting with just 29 subscribers. Fast forward 12 months, and we now have 687 engaged readers! It’s been fulfilling to share thoughts and insights, and with the help of generative AI, I hit my goal of writing 26 articles this year. Even more rewarding, I found a way to express myself authentically while leveraging new tools to refine my voice.

The year wasn’t just about writing, though. I attended four fantastic conferences and spoke at 15 events, each a chance to connect, learn, and share ideas. One standout moment was the California Association of RE ‘Generative AI’ talk, which had over 900 attendees on Zoom. Seeing such interest and enthusiasm around AI was invigorating. Click on the link, and you can watch it here. 😀

This year also brought opportunities to connect internationally. I reconnected with old colleagues and met new ones in Japan, a country that never ceases to amaze me with its blend of tradition and innovation. Every conversation was meaningful, and my peers' work and ideas inspired me.

And then there was my quick trip to Paris, the City of Lights. From the moment I stepped off the plane, I was reminded why it’s one of the most enchanting places on Earth. Whether walking its streets or sharing meals with family, I soaked in the city's culture, history, and magic. Both trips were immensely fulfilling, and I’m grateful for the chance to see the world through these unique experiences.

This year, we added three exciting companies to our portfolio. Each represents an opportunity to shape the future, and we are thrilled about what lies ahead for them. We couldn’t be more excited about our portfolio companies' incredible progress this year. Each one represents bold ideas, hard work, and limitless potential. As we head into 2025, know we’re here to champion, support, and stand by you as you continue growing and thriving. Let’s build something extraordinary together!

On a personal note, I’ve been working to realize a long-held dream: starting an incubator. Our vision begins with entrepreneurship for all. That vision became a reality this year at the University of San Francisco, where, with the help of an incredible board, we hosted our first kickoff. I also had the privilege of lecturing a graduate business class—walking onto campus as a professor instead of a student never gets old.

Speaking of USF, we’re still proud supporters of the athletics program. The men’s basketball team had a solid March run, and both teams are back on the Hilltop. In soccer news, USF celebrated its highest-ever professional draft pick when the San Jose Quakes drafted Rob Reid. Watching these young athletes thrive reminds us of what hard work and determination can achieve.

EJ and I partnered with Equity Angels to support this year's inaugural cohort. It was amazing to see these founders in action and work alongside friends like Kat and Kenya, whose passion for bridging the diversity gap inspires us daily. We reviewed over 400 companies in 2024—emails, submissions, dinners, meet-ups—you name it. The pipeline for next year looks incredible, and I can’t wait to see what’s in store.

Join 15,000+ VCs and investors getting smarter on venture capital by reading this free daily newsletter.

Start getting the headlines that matter, lists of companies breaking out, and other resources and playbooks you won’t find anywhere else.

Become a smarter investor in < 5 min a day.

Subscribe for free

Professionally, it’s been a big year, but personally, it’s been just as meaningful. I participated in my first commencement exercise at St. Ignatius Church, a powerful experience I hope to repeat. I joked with my oldest, Corey, that if he chooses USF for college, I might even hand him his diploma. As he wrapped up middle school and began high school, I couldn’t be prouder of the young man he’s becoming.

And then there was a moment that genuinely anchored this year: celebrating my parents’ 50th anniversary. My siblings and I planned a beautiful ceremony at our grade school church, led by a priest who has known our family for over 40 years. The dinner that followed, filled with close family and friends, was unforgettable. Seeing my parents so happy reminded me of what matters.

As 2024 ends, I feel deeply grateful and excited for what’s to come. The road hasn’t always been smooth, but the journey has been worth it. To everyone who has walked alongside me—thank you for believing, showing up, and reminding me that we don’t do this alone.

Here’s to more curiosity, growth, and laughter in 2025.

Cheers,
MD

P.S. Stay with me on this journey. 

Disclaimer

www.twentyfiveventures.com

If nothing else, thanks for reading.