Dara5: The Family Office Empowering the Next Gen Through Capital, Community, and VC
Dara5 is a London-based multi-family office founded in 2019, focused on venture capital and private equity investments across Europe and the United States. It operates as a private investment community that empowers the next generation of global leaders—especially Gen Z and millennials—through capital, community, and development opportunities.
Founding Team & Experience
• Oliver Hardcastle – Previously at Chrystal Capital, advising family offices on private investments; earlier roles at EY and Bamford Family Estate.
• Bjoern Lippe – Background in VC/PE across hospitality, consumer, and SaaS sectors; Chairman of Dara5’s Investment Advisory Committee.
• Eyal Raphael Samovich – Co-founder of Dara5 with a background in venture capital and investment management; member of the Golden Key Honour Society and Shareholder & Advisory Board Member at Invilia.
• James Sedgwick-Heath (Investment Principal) – Leads investment sourcing and diligence; ex-VC with focus on consumer internet, marketplaces, SaaS, and health tech.
Investment Strategy
• LP Commitments in early-stage VC funds (pre-seed to Series A) across the US and Europe
• Direct Investments from Series B to pre-IPO
• Private Equity exposure through select fund commitments
• Strong emphasis on co-investment opportunities with trusted GPs
Community & Academy
• Community: A global network of young investors and founders, convening through retreats and forums
• Academy: Coaching, mentoring, and internships designed to accelerate learning and leadership development
Global Presence & Notable Initiatives
• Headquartered in London, investing globally with a focus on the US and Europe
• Co-hosts the Founders Family Office Forum with the Getty Family, fostering collaboration between leading family offices on tech and sustainability themes
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