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Blair Garrou

Managing Director at Mercury Fund

Blair Garrou is a prominent figure in the venture capital industry, particularly in Texas and the broader middle American region. He is the co-founder and Managing Director of Mercury Fund, one of the largest early-stage venture capital firms headquartered in Texas.12

Professional Background

Blair has spent the majority of his career advising, operating, and investing in software companies, with a focus on enabling technologies for retailers and brands.1 His experience includes:

  • CEO of Intermat, a leader in product information management software (acquired by IHS)1
  • Principal at Genesis Park, a Houston-based venture capital and private equity firm1
  • Director of Operations for the Houston Technology Center (HTC), the largest technology incubator in Texas1
  • Investment banker with Nesbitt Burns (BMO Capital Markets)1
  • Credit analyst with Compass Bank (BBVA Compass)1
  • Auditor with Deloitte & Touche (Deloitte)1

Education and Teaching

Blair received a B.S. in Management with special attainments in Commerce from Washington & Lee University.1 He is also an Adjunct Professor at the Jones Graduate School of Business at Rice University, where he teaches a course on venture capital.13

Entrepreneurial Contributions

In addition to his role at Mercury Fund, Blair has made significant contributions to the entrepreneurial ecosystem:

  • Co-founder of Station Houston (now part of the Ion and Capital Factory), a coworking accelerator1
  • Co-founder of SURGE Accelerator, focused on energy-related software solutions1
  • Led the formation of the Houston Angel Network (HAN), one of the largest angel investment organizations in the U.S.1

Investment Philosophy

At Mercury Fund, Blair focuses on investments in enterprise SaaS and cloud computing startups.3 He emphasizes the importance of hiring grade A talent for startups, as it significantly impacts fundraising valuations and long-term success.4

Advisory Roles

Blair serves in board and/or advisory roles for several organizations, including:

  • The Artemis Fund
  • DivInc
  • Houston Exponential
  • HTX Impact Fund
  • UTHealth
  • Washington & Lee's Connolly Center for Entrepreneurship1

Blair Garrou's LinkedIn username is blair-garrou-04867325, and he is based in Houston, Texas.

Highlights

Houston's venture capital investment ecosystem slowing amid economic uncertainty - The Business Journals
Aug 9 · Business Wire
ReturnLogic Raises $8.5 Million in Series A Funding From Mercury and Other Leading Investors - Business Wire

Related Questions

What are some of the most successful investments made by Mercury Fund under Blair Garrou's leadership?
How did Blair Garrou's experience at the Houston Technology Center influence his career in venture capital?
What are Blair Garrou's thoughts on the future of AI in venture capital?
How has the shift from growth to profitability impacted Mercury Fund's investment strategy?
What advice does Blair Garrou give to startups in middle America?
Blair Garrou
Blair Garrou, photo 1
Blair Garrou, photo 2
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Location

Houston, Texas, United States