“Willard is more than a fund, this is a commitment to founders, built from experience and conviction. We invest with empathy, discipline, and a long-term view.”

I’m Thomas Brown Jr., a founder, operator, and investor building Willard Capital with the belief that enduring companies are created through disciplined execution and aligned partnership. I’ve founded and scaled a global startup, advised organizations on strategy and operations, and earned an MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management. These experiences shape how I support founders with empathy, accountability, and a long term mindset. Outside of investing, I carry these same values into my life through tennis, cooking with my partner, and studying the precision and focus of Formula 1, which continually reinforce the importance of balance, patience, and intentional leadership.

I started Willard Capital to build the firm I once wished existed when I was a founder. One that listens deeply, shows up consistently, and pairs conviction with genuine care. My hope is to back ambitious builders early, especially those creating outside traditional networks, and to help them turn belief into durable companies through thoughtful capital, operational partnership, and trust. Willard Capital exists to create lasting value for founders, communities, and the next generation of builders.