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Michael Palank

Michael Palank

General Partner at MaC Venture Capital, former talent agent, investor in hard tech

Los Angeles, California
Joined September 2025

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MaC Venture Capital

Summary

Michael Palank is a seasoned venture capitalist and co-founder of MaC Venture Capital, where he applies a diverse background spanning media, entertainment, and technology to seed-stage investments. He focuses on consumer and enterprise startups, demonstrating a keen eye for disruptive innovation. macventurecapital+2
With an early career as a talent agent at William Morris Agency and later advising Will Smith, Palank brings a unique perspective to venture capital, viewing the identification of promising founders and technologies through the lens of 'spotting the next big star.' This entertainment industry foundation has informed his strategic approach to investing. macventurecapital+2
Palank is a strong advocate for investing in 'hard tech' and foundational industries, often overlooked by traditional Silicon Valley venture capital. He believes that transformative companies will emerge from sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, and logistics, particularly in regions like the Midwest, contributing to the broader American economy and national security. fortune+1
He shows a particular interest in aerospace and defense technologies, including space exploration, fusion energy, and advanced manufacturing (like plastics and robotics), often highlighting investments in companies like Stoke Space and Hexium Inc. on social media as examples of turning 'science fiction into science fact.' nitter

Work

Education

Hobbies

Enjoys space and aerospace, specifically following companies like Stoke Space and innovations in reusability and fusion energy. nitter

Notes

WGWill Guralsaid that if they were building a defense tech company and looking for a VC partner,
MPMichael Palank
would be at the top of their list.

Mar 3, 2026