Ugo Vollmer
I’m a Partner at Hexa with a deep passion for all things tech, especially AI, dev-tools, cybersecurity, and open-source. I’m a software engineer by training, but I embrace a variety of challenges, not just tech-related ones. I spent over seven years in Silicon Valley working on cutting-edge projects like self-driving cars before founding Shone (YC W18, 30u30) to make cargo ships autonomous. Since then, I’ve helped launch a cyber insurance startup backed by A16z, led product at Alan and built cyber defences against troll farms on social media.
I thrive in the 0-to-1 phase, finding innovative ways to achieve product-market fit. I enjoy working alongside founders as a co-founder during this pivotal stage and transitioning into a coach role once the foundation is set.
Outside of work, I like to travel for surfing, kitesurfing, and enjoy artistic activities like acrylic painting. I once spent months living on the road, traveling from California to Panama in a van to chase waves, and I’ve never been on Instagram!
I’m not focused on where you come from—it’s where you want to go that truly matters. I spend significant time getting to know founders, often without discussing ideas initially. This helps figure out if we’re the right fit to embark on this journey together. Here’s what I typically look for:
- Clear why: founders who deeply understand why they want to build a company, and where they want to be in 5 years. Starting a business is a 5-to-10-year rollercoaster ride, and knowing your purpose is essential to weather the highs and lows.
- Big ambition: I’m drawn to founders who dream of building category-defining companies. This often means being willing to make bold moves, such as relocating to the US, if that’s what it takes to achieve their vision.
- Scrappy hackers: resourceful founders who can stretch a dollar, hack solutions to test ideas quickly, and focus on the critical 20% that drive 80% of results. They don’t wait for perfect conditions; they make things happen with what they have.
- Honest and transparent: integrity is non-negotiable. I value founders who are upfront about challenges, transparent, and comfortable addressing tough truths head-on.
- Humble fast learner: I admire founders who combine humility with a hunger to learn. Being humble doesn’t mean lacking confidence—it means being open to feedback, acknowledging what you don’t know, and constantly seeking growth.
