David Solomont is a seasoned investor, advisor, and entrepreneur who has been at the forefront of innovation across multiple industries—ranging from software and gaming to transportation and media. With a career that spans over four decades, he is best known for blending strategic foresight with hands-on leadership to turn promising ideas into thriving enterprises.
From Engineering Roots to Startup Success
David Solomont’s journey began in the early 1970s when he first engaged with computers as a student at Tufts University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering. He later obtained a Master’s in Management from the MIT Sloan School, equipping him with the business acumen that would guide his future ventures.
In 1980, Solomont founded Business and Professional Software, Inc., a pioneering company that developed graphics software for Apple II and introduced presentation software products for both Apple and MS-DOS platforms. This early experience shaped his understanding of market timing and innovation.
A Pioneer in Angel Investing
By the mid-90s, David shifted his focus toward early-stage technology investments. In 1998, he founded Common Angels, one of the first institutionalized angel groups in the United States. His expertise in strategic planning and venture capital was instrumental in mentoring startups and fueling innovation ecosystems.
Solomont’s contributions to startup funding and growth strategies are documented in various professional profiles, including his publications, which detail his work and thought leadership.
Driving the Future of Transportation
In 2015, David Solomont founded ev Transportation Services, Inc. (evTS)—a company that designs and manufactures lightweight, all-electric utility vehicles. As Chairman and CEO, he oversees the development of the FireFly ESV®, an electric vehicle designed for last-mile delivery, parking enforcement, and campus transportation.
Solomont’s vision for sustainable urban mobility is transforming how cities operate, and his ability to combine engineering with entrepreneurship remains a core asset of his leadership.
For a deeper look into his executive and entrepreneurial career, explore David Solomont’s professional resume, where he highlights his expertise in business development, funding strategy, and corporate growth.
Strategic Advice for Entrepreneurs
Beyond leading companies, David Solomont actively mentors entrepreneurs, providing advice on funding strategies, mergers and acquisitions, and team development. His insights draw from decades of hands-on experience scaling startups and navigating complex markets.
He emphasizes three key principles:
- Timing matters more than ideas. Launching the right product at the wrong time can doom even the best ideas. Always study market readiness.
- Build adaptive teams. Success often depends not on the perfect plan, but on a team’s ability to adapt quickly to change.
- Always be raising. Capital is oxygen for a startup—think ahead and build relationships before you need the funds.
Solomont’s strategies for sustainable startup growth and resilience are profiled in his Crunchbase profile, showcasing his lasting influence on the entrepreneurial landscape.
Final Thoughts
David Solomont’s legacy is one of innovation, leadership, and mentorship. Whether building software in the early days of personal computing or steering the future of urban electric vehicles, his contributions continue to shape modern industries.