Justin Ernest

Playground is an early stage venture capital firm with $1.2 billion under management and currently investing out of its third fund. Our mission is to partner with exceptional entrepreneurs who are building the next generation of category-defining technology companies. We seek to invest in innovative companies whose cutting-edge products will underpin the next wave of economic and human development. Areas of active investment include artificial intelligence, robotics, quantum computing, life sciences, aerospace, cybersecurity, decarbonization, and other frontier technology. Playground has also assembled a world-class team of domain experts within engineering, design, machine learning, and startup operations, all of whom operate out of our fully-equipped, 80k square foot studio where the firm also hosts a number of its portfolio companies.

NextGen is a network-driven venture firm that partners with exceptional entrepreneurs. We invest in category defining early-stage tech companies such as Hyperloop One, Penrose Studios, and Carta. Our network of young startup investors are leaders in the entrepreneurial community who use their collective skills and connections to support the growth of our portfolio companies. NextGen has operations across the US, with the goal of becoming one of the most active and connected investors in the world. My role as an active venture partner is to provide support via sourcing, deal evaluation, and portfolio advisory.

Consumer technology investing

- Awarded Wayne Fellowship, Delaney Fellowship, and Phelan Fellowship - VP Sponsorships, HBS Tech Conference 2017 - Active Member: Venture Capital/Private Equity Club; Tech Club; Business of Sports Club - Admissions Ambassador - Mentor @ Harvard Innovation Labs (iLab) - Section C Athletic Chair

- Magna Cum Laude - Named 1 of 10 'Outstanding Senior Leaders' at the University - Chapter President, Golden Key International Honour Society (350 members)

- Summa Cum Laude - Student Body President (650 students)