Tom Noonan

Tom Noonan is a highly respected venture capitalist and General Partner at TechOperators, an Atlanta-based venture firm specializing in early-stage B2B software companies, particularly within the cybersecurity sector. His extensive operational background, most notably as the former chairman, president, and chief executive officer of Internet Security Systems (ISS), provides a unique perspective to his investment approach. Under his leadership, ISS grew into a cybersecurity powerhouse before its acquisition by IBM for an impressive $1.3 billion in 2006, a testament to his strategic vision and execution capabilities. This significant exit underscores his deep understanding of building and scaling successful technology enterprises.

At TechOperators, Noonan leverages his profound industry knowledge to identify and nurture promising startups. The firm typically focuses on seed and Series A rounds, aiming to be the first institutional money in or lead early financing. While specific individual check sizes for Noonan are not publicly detailed, TechOperators generally writes initial checks ranging from approximately $250,000 to $2 million, with the capacity to invest up to $5 million over the lifetime of a portfolio company. This indicates a preference for impactful early-stage investments where their operational expertise can significantly influence growth.

Noonan's investment philosophy extends beyond capital provision; he is known for his hands-on approach, offering strategic guidance, mentorship, and access to his vast network. His experience in navigating the complexities of product development, market penetration, and eventual exit strategies makes him a valuable partner for founders. He actively seeks companies with strong technical teams and innovative solutions that address critical business challenges, especially in areas like enterprise software, cloud infrastructure, and advanced security technologies. His ongoing commitment to fostering technological innovation in the Southeast and beyond solidifies his reputation as a key figure in the venture capital landscape.