Building a Startup Unicorn in NYC: Q&A with Investor Bruce Taragin

Our colleague Bruce Taragin along with venture capital luminaries Howard Morgan and Alan Patricof recently joined UJA Federation of New York’s “Venture & Vision” event for a conversation on investment philosophies, lessons learned, and what’s ahead for NYC’s venture capital ecosystem. From career-defining investments to generational mentorship, Bruce emphasized the long view in venture capital and the importance of giving back.

Bruce, you spoke to Howard and Alan about spending the majority of their careers outside of Silicon Valley in NYC. What do you love most about investing here?

The sheer diversity—of people, ideas, industries, and lived experience. NYC  is a global intersection of Wall Street, media, the arts, commerce, retail, fashion and of course tech.

NYC founders are gritty, resourceful, and deeply plugged into real-world problems—they’re not just building for clicks, but for enduring value.

You’re constantly challenged by perspectives outside the tech bubble, and that leads to grounded, customer-centric businesses.

You have served as an adjunct professor at Yeshiva University and Columbia University. How does engaging with students shape or challenge your thinking as an investor?

It is a real privilege to teach, and learn, from so many young, brilliant minds that are energized and trying to build and impress the world of tomorrow. Students ask direct, unfiltered questions—and they’re not afraid to challenge assumptions. It pushes me to explain why things work, not just how. That’s powerful as an investor because it forces clarity of thought.

Also, students are often early signal detectors, unfettered by some of the usual biases, and are incredibly optimistic. Their fresh perspective is energizing and reminds me why taking bold bets early on is so powerful.

Advice to founders visiting NYC or newly relocated to the city?

NYC rewards hustle, but it also rewards authenticity. You don’t need to pretend to be someone else —bring your vision and your backstory.

Second—show up. There’s community here, but it’s not always on the surface. Go to founder dinners, talk to operators, attend industry events, meet people outside of traditional tech. 

Lastly— connect with investors before you are looking for capital. Build relationships and find investors who want to support you with more than funding.