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Reuven Ashtar
CEO, Never Napping (Influence With Purpose)
Reuven Ashtar is a prominent partner at Dark Matter Ventures, where he focuses on providing strategic advice and investment to a diverse range of companies, from disruptive startups to established brands. His background as a lawyer specializing in media, technology, and startup law has equipped him with the skills to navigate complex legal and business landscapes effectively.
Professional Background
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Education: Ashtar holds a BCL/LLB from McGill University, graduating in 2008. His legal studies sparked his interest in the arts and culture, leading him to engage with Montreal's vibrant creative community while advising artists on various issues.1
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Career Path: Before joining Dark Matter Ventures, Ashtar founded Never Napping, a company that manages YouTube content creators. He initially served as legal counsel for these creators, helping them understand and negotiate deals within the often confusing tech and entertainment sectors. This dual role of legal advisor and talent manager has allowed him to build strong partnerships with top YouTube personalities like Molly Burke and AsapSCIENCE.13
Dark Matter Ventures
At Dark Matter Ventures, which he co-founded with fellow McGill Law graduate Ivo Entchev, Ashtar plays a crucial role in coordinating legal affairs and advising on marketing, branding, and strategic partnerships. The firm is known for its innovative approach to venture capital, focusing on technology companies that are reshaping commerce.24
Ashtar's work at Dark Matter Ventures reflects a broader trend where entrepreneurs seek more holistic legal services that integrate business strategy with legal advice. His insights into the evolving needs of clients highlight the importance of adaptability in both the legal and business realms.13
Personal Philosophy
Ashtar emphasizes the need for "coachability" among the creators he manages, believing that the ability to accept feedback is essential for success in the fast-paced digital landscape. He advocates for a creative approach to problem-solving in media and technology, aiming to empower independent creators against larger corporate entities.1
In summary, Reuven Ashtar is not only a seasoned lawyer but also a strategic partner in innovation within the venture capital space, dedicated to helping creators and businesses thrive in an ever-changing environment.
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