First Close Partners
Anthony Pergola is a seasoned legal and investment professional with extensive experience in the venture capital and startup ecosystems. Currently serving as a Partner and Vice Chair of the Tech Group at Lowenstein Sandler LLP since 1995, Anthony specializes in venture capital and emerging growth companies. In addition, Anthony is a Partner at First Close Partners, which focuses on backing venture funds owned by underrepresented managers. As the Founder of GrapeArborVC, Anthony has facilitated investments in over three dozen startup companies since 2006. Previously, Anthony held advisory roles at First Growth Venture Network and was a Founding Board Member of AngelVineVC. Anthony's academic credentials include a Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School and a Bachelor's degree in Political Science/History from Saint Peter's University.
First Close Partners
First Close Partners backs venture funds owned by underrepresented managers (“URMs”) -- especially to help them get to a “first close.” The company invests in venture capital firms owned and operated by URMs who are people of color, women, LGBTQIA+, Indigenous people, people with disabilities, and members of other groups that have been historicallyunderrepresented, especially (but not solely) in the venture capital industry. The venture capital funds into which they have invested are predominantly located in the US, Europe, and Africa.