David S. Rose Quotes

Powerful David S. Rose for Daily Growth

About David S. Rose

David S. Rose is a highly accomplished American entrepreneur, angel investor, venture advisor, and serial author, renowned for his work in technology, entrepreneurship, and angel investing. Born in New York City in 1960, Rose was raised in the suburbs of Long Island. His early life was marked by a strong influence from his parents who emphasized the importance of education and hard work. Rose attended Brown University where he studied computer science and economics, graduating Phi Beta Kappa. After completing his undergraduate studies, he went on to earn an MBA from Columbia Business School. His academic background provided a solid foundation for his subsequent career in technology and business. In 1982, Rose co-founded his first company, PairGain Corporation (formerly Teleglobe America), which later became one of the world's largest internet service providers. He has since founded or co-founded numerous other companies, including Jumptap (acquired by Millennial Media), VentureConnectors (now the New York Angels), and Gust, an online platform for startups and angel investors. Rose is a prolific author, having written several books on entrepreneurship, angel investing, and technology. His works include "Angel Investing: The Gust Guide to Making Money & Having Fun Investing in Startups," "The Start-Up Checklist: 25 Steps Every Entrepreneur Needs to Know," and "Technovation: How Teaching Tech Skills Can Change the World." Throughout his career, Rose has been recognized for his contributions. He is a member of the New York Angels, one of the oldest and most active angel groups in the world, and serves as a venture partner at Gotham Ventures. His work continues to influence and inspire entrepreneurs and investors alike.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Entrepreneurship is a team sport."

David S. Rose's quote, "Entrepreneurship is a team sport," emphasizes that starting and growing a successful business is not solely an individual endeavor but rather a collaborative effort. It suggests that the skills, resources, and perspectives of a diverse team are essential for overcoming challenges, innovating, and executing strategies effectively. A strong team can help entrepreneurs navigate complex decisions, divide responsibilities, and capitalize on collective strengths to achieve their objectives. In this quote, Rose encourages entrepreneurs to build synergistic teams that maximize the potential for success in their ventures.


"If you don't understand why you're doing something, then don't do it."

This quote by David S. Rose emphasizes the importance of having a clear purpose or understanding behind any action we take. It suggests that if we cannot articulate why we are doing something, then it might not be worth pursuing as it lacks meaning and direction. This principle encourages us to think critically about our goals and actions, ensuring they align with our values and objectives, thereby increasing the likelihood of success and personal fulfillment.


"The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now."

This quote emphasizes that there's no perfect or ideal moment in the past to start something new, but the most important thing is taking action today. It encourages us to seize opportunities when they present themselves instead of constantly waiting for a "better" time, which may never come. Essentially, it's about starting and investing in projects, learning, or personal growth right away, rather than delaying them due to perceived imperfections or lack of preparation.


"In business, it's not about the 'next big thing.' It's about the next right thing."

This quote emphasizes that in business, success is not solely dependent on chasing the latest trend or innovation (the 'next big thing'). Instead, it's crucial to focus on the actions that are necessary at a given moment for growth and progression (the 'next right thing'). It highlights the importance of making thoughtful decisions, prioritizing strategic steps over hype, and consistently moving forward towards long-term goals.


"An entrepreneur is someone who has a vision for something and a desire to create value, and is willing to put everything on the line to see that vision come true."

David S. Rose's quote defines an entrepreneur as an individual with a clear vision of creating value, backed by strong determination and readiness to take significant risks. This description encapsulates the spirit of innovation, resilience, and passion that lies at the heart of every successful entrepreneurship endeavor. In essence, it highlights the crucial role of entrepreneurs in driving economic growth and shaping the future through their visionary ideas and relentless pursuit of value creation.


I like to invest in companies where I can really add value from my experience, network, etc., so checking out my portfolio of other investments, and my background, will generally give some guidance there.

- David S. Rose

Some, Other, Checking, Investments

Without question, the single most important attribute of a successful entrepreneur is integrity. And that's not some philosophical or theoretical malarkey; it's hard-nosed fact.

- David S. Rose

Question, Fact, Some, Entrepreneur

Being an entrepreneur is tough. Really, really tough.

- David S. Rose

Tough, Being, Really, Entrepreneur

I almost never invest in ideas or plans, so you'll need to have a company and at least a product, if not customers.

- David S. Rose

Product, Need, Almost, Customers

If the response you finally receive from me is 'thanks but no thanks', then please accept at face value that I would really not be the right investor for you. You've got to trust me on this, and in this case take 'no' for an answer.

- David S. Rose

Trust, Thanks, Got, Face Value

The entrepreneurial life is one of challenge, work, dedication, perseverance, exhilaration, agony, accomplishment, failure, sacrifice, control, powerlessness... but ultimately, extraordinary satisfaction.

- David S. Rose

Work, Powerlessness, Entrepreneurial

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