In a recent conversation, we had the pleasure of speaking with Dominic Ardis, the founder of ACT House and managing partner of ACT Ventures. Dominic shared his unique journey from being a military brat to becoming a venture capitalist, and how his experiences have shaped his approach to entrepreneurship and investment.

Early Life and Experiences

Born in Texas and the youngest of four, Dominic spent his early years moving around the world due to his family’s military background. This constant movement instilled in him a curiosity and adaptability that would later prove invaluable in his entrepreneurial journey.

His family eventually settled in Tallahassee, Florida, where Dominic attended Florida A&M University (FAMU). His time at FAMU was transformative, exposing him to a diverse range of African American experiences and instilling in him a deep sense of service.

Entrepreneurial Beginnings

After graduating from FAMU, Dominic turned down several job offers to start his first company. Despite the challenges and eventual failure of his first startup, Dominic viewed the experience as a learning opportunity. He wrote a post-mortem report, identifying key areas for improvement and setting the stage for his future endeavors.

ACT House and ACT Ventures

Dominic’s experiences led him to found ACT House, a unique entrepreneurial program designed to foster innovation and creativity. ACT House focuses on investing in the human element of startups, recognizing that a company’s success is intrinsically linked to the growth and development of its team.

In addition to ACT House, Dominic also serves as the managing partner of ACT Ventures, an investment firm that has invested in over 35 companies to date. Dominic views these investments not just as financial commitments, but as opportunities to invest in the growth and development of the entrepreneurs themselves.

A Unique Approach to Life and Work

Dominic’s approach to life and work is characterized by a focus on continuous improvement. He strives to get 2% better every day, a philosophy that he believes leads to significant growth over time. Dominic also values simplicity and consistency, as evidenced by his decision to adopt a uniform of black t-shirts and blue jeans.

Looking Ahead

Despite his achievements, Dominic believes that he still has much to accomplish. He is driven by a desire to leave a lasting legacy and to make a positive impact on the world. As he looks to the future, Dominic remains committed to his philosophy of continuous improvement and is excited about the potential of ACT House and ACT Ventures to transform the entrepreneurial landscape.

Dominic’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, continuous learning, and a commitment to serving others. His journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and a reminder that success is often the result of many small steps taken consistently over time.

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