The Founders’ Award

The Early Stage East Founders’ Award is awarded to an individual who has shown outstanding commitment, leadership and support of the venture capital community as a whole. This individual is committed to the growth of the overall venture capital community and has shown a belief in and commitment to this region in the development of venture capital and entrepreneurial activity.

This year’s inaugural award was presented to Warren V. "Pete" Musser, Chairman and Founder of Safeguard Scientifics, Inc. (NYSE: SFE), at Early Stage East’s company coaching and event sponsor reception hosted by the American Stock Exchange on May 21, 2001. Mr. Musser has led Safeguard Scientifics since its inception in 1953 and has helped guide hundreds of companies towards success. He has both financially and with his time and energy supported community activities, education, and the arts. Mr. Musser serves on a variety of civic, educational and charitable boards of directors including Boy Scouts of America, The Eastern Technology Council, and as chairman of the Pennsylvania Partnership on Economic Education.

Early Stage East will make a $1000 contribution in the name of the Award and it’s recipient to a qualified charity, regional educational institution, or school, of the Award recipient’s choice, that promotes business or entrepreneurial activities to its constituents.