Since the Internet ran on HTML layout tables and dial-up connections, EPIC has been investing in early-stage technology companies. Partnering with entrepreneurs and founders of iconic tech companies. EPIC has seen successful outcomes since founding in 1994. From behemoths like Ancestry to current tech unicorn superstars Health Catalyst, PillPack and Instructure, EPIC’s pride is built on commitment to entrepreneurs at every point in the turbulent start-up journey.
EPIC’s team and advisors have held executive roles at iconic technology companies, founded category-defining startups, and pioneered technologies that support modern ways of working and living. EPIC comprises operators, investors, and most importantly entrepreneur focused.
LEADERSHIP AND EXPERIENCE
EPIC’s strength lies in the operational and strategic acumen of a cohesive team and dedicated leadership. EPIC Managing Directors Kent Madsen and Nick Efstratis have both been with the firm for over 20 years.
Kent, formerly the CEO of a publicly traded NASDAQ Company, has been directly involved in 6 IPO’s and dozens of acquisitions. Kent serves on the boards of Zions First National Bank, The University of Utah and Utah Valley University Business School.
Nick is an operator whose early experiences at Excite.com and as a founding member of the management team at NetDocuments helped shape his commitment to entrepreneurs and founders. Over the last decade, Nick has served as a judge for the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Awards. In addition, Nick was recently tapped to speak at The White House at The President’s American Leadership in Emerging Technology event.
EPIC’s philosophy is – the best way to build lasting companies is to be a valuable partner and resource to the C-suite and founders.
Nick Efstratis – Managing Director
Kent Madsen – Managing Director
EPIC VENTURES JR. ANALYST PROGRAM
Headed by Directors Jack Boren and Ryan Hemingway, EPIC is training the next generation! Every semester EPIC recruits 15+ of the best and brightest from University of Utah and Brigham Young University to the program, providing an immersive learning opportunity where students gain real-world experience in the venture capital industry.
To date, over 100 students have completed the program and have gone on to be leaders in private equity funds, investment banks, consulting firms and more. EPIC was proud to hire Senior Analyst Gabe Hawkes from the program after he moved through the ranks from Intern to Deal Source Team Member, to Team Lead.
Chris Calder – Director
Merry Osborne – LP Relations / Community Manager
Gabe Hawkes – Senior Analyst
COMMUNITY
Being an active participant in Utah’s rich tech ecosystem is highly prioritized at EPIC. Merry Osborne heads up Community where she cultivates a diverse combination of networking and industry events to further the goals of adding value for the portfolio, being a connector in the space and ensuring EPIC is top of mind when an entrepreneur is looking for funding.
With a focus on increasing diversity, it was EPIC’s honor to host a gathering of leading tech CEO’s and Derrek Johnson, President of the NAACP. EPIC is also active with the Women Tech Council, Silicon Slopes and the Utah Tech Council. EPIC Director Chris Calder is a board member with the Rocky Mountain Venture Capital Association.
The RMVCA hosts Adventure Doggle in Park City, bringing together investors and operators on a regular cadence to inspire co-investment and networking. Katie Rice is a Venture Associate with EPIC and co-founder of the Annual Ski Lift Pitch in New Mexico and a Judge for New Mexico’s Balloon Pitch.
SUCCESSES
With 4 IPO’s in 4 years and more than 14 IPO’s total, along with over 35 profitable exits we believe the best is yet to come!
Ryan Hemingway – Director
Jack Boren – Director
