JOHN BACKUS, In Memoriam

John was a profoundly influential figure in the venture community—a co-founder of our firm, a trusted mentor to countless entrepreneurs, and a voice of wisdom and integrity across the industry. His career spanned more than three decades as a builder, investor, and leader, beginning with co-founding US Order, which helped pioneer early online banking, and continuing through his many years supporting rapidly growing technology companies.

Beyond his work with us, John dedicated extraordinary energy to public service and thought leadership. He served on the Board of Overseers for the Hoover Institution, Stanford University, on the Board of Directors for the CLL Society, and on the Investment Committee for Stanford’s DAPER Fund. He was a former board member of the National Venture Capital Association, Chairman Emeritus of both the Northern Virginia Technology Council (NVTC) and the Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts, and a trusted technology policy advisor to several Virginia governors. His insights appeared in The Washington Post, TechCrunch, Fortune, CNBC, Fox Business, and many others.

Most of all, John was a remarkable human being—curious, generous, optimistic, and deeply devoted to his family and community. His kindness and clarity of thought shaped our culture, our partnerships, and the careers of many who were fortunate to know him.

We will miss him enormously. John leaves an enduring legacy, and all of us at PROOF are committed to carrying forward the values and spirit he brought to everything he touched.