Sunny Isles, Miami – February 28, 2025
The Global Family Office Investment Summit in Miami pulsed with innovation and opportunity, and GlobalBoost Media, as a proud media partner, was excited to document the energy on the Impact Money Show. Against the sun-drenched backdrop of Sunny Isles, I had the chance to sit down with Mike Schatzman of Venture Forward Capital—an early-stage investment fund gaining traction by backing repeat entrepreneurs and leveraging AI to fuel growth. With Anthony Ritossa masterfully uniting an extraordinary group of attendees, the summit showcased the power of connection. We’re already looking forward to the 25th edition in Dubai this May.
Mike, a three-time exited entrepreneur now turned investor, brings a wealth of experience to Venture Forward Capital, a fund he co-founded after managing a single-family office. “It’s our own startup investing in startups,” he said with a smile, explaining how the firm transitioned into a VC fund laser-focused on repeat founders with proven success. Headquartered in Chicago—the Windy City—Venture Forward Capital is sector- and geography-agnostic, boasting a diverse portfolio of companies, investments, and limited partners (LPs) spanning the U.S. and beyond. “We started in the United States, but we’re eager to explore markets abroad,” Mike shared, noting how the summit’s global reach aligned perfectly with their ambitions.
What’s the magic behind Venture Forward Capital? It comes down to two core elements: experience and AI. “We prioritize repeat entrepreneurs—people who’ve stumbled, succeeded, and are now tackling bigger, passion-driven challenges,” Mike explained. These are founders on their second or third venture, seasoned by the journey. The other key? Businesses harnessing AI—not just as a trendy label, but as a practical engine for efficiency and scalability. “Going forward, most companies will need this tech woven into their DNA, or they’ll lag far behind,” he forecasted. Unlike broad AI-platform plays, Venture Forward targets firms using AI to supercharge growth and trim costs, particularly in labor-heavy or overlooked sectors primed for a shake-up.
Mike highlighted the summit as a treasure trove for broadening their network. “Family office LPs are our sweet spot,” he said, underscoring their distinctive angle: prioritizing the “P” (partner) in LP over just the “L” (limited). Whether it’s a solo founder setting up a single-family office after an exit or a seasoned multi-family office pivoting to a private equity-style operation, Venture Forward positions itself as their ideal venture ally. “We offer expertise and top-tier deal flow they might not uncover alone,” he noted. Beyond simply investing in the fund, family offices can access hand-picked co-investment opportunities—a mutual advantage in the high-stakes venture world.
Mike’s enthusiasm for the gig was palpable. “It’s rewarding, but far from easy,” he confessed. “Venture seems straightforward on the surface, but pulling it off is brutal.” In an increasingly packed field, a razor-sharp strategy and dogged execution are non-negotiable, fueled by a stellar team and a robust network. That’s where events like this shine. “You might forge one or two game-changing partnerships that propel your business forward,” he said, nodding to the rich mix of global voices in the room.
From AI-powered efficiency to hands-on guidance, Venture Forward’s mission is straightforward: stand by entrepreneurs for the long haul. “We’re not afraid to dig in when the going gets tough,” Mike said. As strategic investors, they bring patient capital and a deep well of entrepreneurial experience—supporting founders to scale while generating standout returns for their LPs. Want to get in touch? Mike’s accessible: “Drop me a line at mike@ventureforwardcapital.com, check out our website, or ping me on LinkedIn—I’m pretty active there.”
As the Miami summit drew to a close, Anthony Ritossa’s vision shone brightly—uniting sharp minds like Mike’s to ignite collaboration and fresh ideas. With the 25th edition looming in Dubai this May, GlobalBoost Media is already gearing up for what’s ahead.
FULL INTERVIEW BELOW
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