Arlan Hamilton

Founder, Managing Partner at Backstage Capital | Los Angeles, California, United States

About Arlan Hamilton

Arlan Hamilton is a trailblazer in the venture capital landscape, serving as the founder and managing partner of Backstage Capital, a pioneering seed investment fund dedicated to supporting underrepresented startup founders. Under her leadership, Backstage Capital has invested in over 200 companies led by women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals, addressing the significant funding gap that exists in the tech and startup ecosystems. Arlan’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is not just a mission; it’s a driving force behind the fund's strategy, which focuses on identifying and nurturing high-potential entrepreneurs who have historically been overlooked by traditional venture capital.

In addition to her role at Backstage Capital, Arlan brings a wealth of experience from her background in the music industry, where she has excelled as a live music production coordinator and tour manager. This unique blend of skills allows her to approach venture capital with a fresh perspective, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and community-building in both music and entrepreneurship. Her expertise in A&R, concert production, and live events enriches her understanding of the creative industries, enabling her to spot innovative ideas and talent that others might miss.

Arlan is also an engaging thought leader, sharing her insights on platforms like Medium, Twitter, and Instagram as @ARLANwashere. Through her writing and public speaking, she advocates for systemic change in the investment space, empowering the next generation of diverse founders to break barriers and achieve their dreams. With a keen eye for potential and a passion for equity, Arlan Hamilton continues to redefine what it means to be a venture capitalist in today’s dynamic landscape.

Arlan Hamilton Work