FGV EAESP’s 70th anniversary: Meet founder of GVAngels, Brazil’s largest angel investor group

Mike Ajnsztajn, a graduate of Fundação Getulio Vargas’ Sao Paulo School of Business Administration (FGV EAESP), built a successful career in the venture capital and private equity industry and now works as an executive director. Leveraging his strong track record in strategic investments and business development, he founded GVAngels, a non-profit association that connects innovative startups with experienced investors, providing financial and strategic support to Brazilian entrepreneurs.

GVAngels was founded with the goal of fostering entrepreneurship in Brazil, promoting innovation and the success of new companies. It has a network of angel investors, made up mainly of FGV graduates, who contribute their knowledge and experience to accelerate the growth of emerging businesses. The support offered to entrepreneurs goes beyond financial capital, encompassing guidance and strategic planning to boost businesses with disruptive potential.

A professional with a strong entrepreneurial spirit, Mike stands out for his skills in business planning, venture capital, international business and strategic partnerships. Through GVAngels, he seeks to strengthen the Brazilian entrepreneurial ecosystem, transforming ideas into sustainable businesses and generating new market opportunities.

According to Mike, FGV has been a great ally in this process. “While studying at FGV, I gained a good understanding of everything needed to innovate and to look at opportunities from different angles,” he says.

Read the full interview below:

How did your education at FGV EAESP influence the creation and growth of ACE Ventures?

FGV prepared me to think outside the box, gave me a working methodology and encouraged my work ethic, meaning when you make a commitment and stick to it until the end. This has guided my entire career and also helps me with my colleagues and collaborators. I always pass this idea on. It’s been a successful part of my life. In addition, the solid foundation in finance I obtained at FGV has always helped me run the companies I’ve started. It’s a huge advantage for serial entrepreneurs like me.

What lessons about entrepreneurship and innovation did you learn in your degree that have been fundamental to your success in the industry?

As I said, the financial side has always helped. In addition, I never wanted to specialize and always sought to be a generalist. FGV gave me this opportunity. While studying at FGV, I gained a good understanding of everything needed to innovate and to look at opportunities from different angles.

How did FGV EAESP prepare you to lead initiatives like GVAngels?

FGV provided the network I needed to found GVAngels. Many friends from FGV asked me how to invest in startups. As I had already been involved in the ecosystem for many years, I approached the FGV Alumni Network and we ended up creating the largest group of angel investors in Brazil. The group now consists of 330 alumni, who have invested R$50 million in various startups. It’s been a very rewarding experience! We’ve managed to create a strong community that helps itself, going beyond investments.

What advice would you give to young entrepreneurs looking to invest in or set up technology startups?

Don’t be afraid to put yourselves out there and go for it. Build a small financial safety net and move forward. Entrepreneurship isn’t glamorous, it’s hard work seven days a week. But there’s nothing more satisfying than seeing your idea flourish and giving you independence.

This article is part of a special series to celebrate FGV EAESP’s 70th anniversary, featuring interviews with high-flying graduates.

Read the previous articles in the series:

• FGV EAESP’s 70th anniversary: Ex-student excels in Forbes Under 30 with vegan plastic sandal brand
• FGV EAESP’s 70th anniversary: See how graduate is building a more equitable and sustainable future

To dive into the school’s history and learn more, visit this commemorative page.