Michael Donohue

Tech Investor and Startup Mentor

Bio

Michael Donohue is a seasoned Tech Investor and Startup Mentor with over two decades of experience in the tech industry. As the co-founder of HalloApp and former Engineering Director at WhatsApp, Michael brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for fostering innovation and driving growth in early-stage startups. His leadership philosophy is centered on empowering teams, fostering creativity, and guiding businesses through the complexities of scaling with integrity and vision. Michael is dedicated to helping startups not just survive but thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

In his previous roles, Michael played a pivotal part in the meteoric rise of WhatsApp, contributing to its expansion from 2 million to 2 billion users. As Engineering Director, he led teams through the challenges of scaling a global platform while ensuring the product remained simple and reliable. Following his tenure at WhatsApp, Michael co-founded HalloApp, an encrypted social network aimed at providing a private, secure space for genuine connections. Although HalloApp did not achieve widespread adoption, the experience enriched his understanding of the tech startup ecosystem. Earlier in his career, Michael held key roles at PayPal and Coverity, where he developed his expertise in product development, team leadership, and strategic planning. 

Beyond his professional achievements, Michael is passionate about giving back, particularly by mentoring first-time founders and guiding them through the early stages of their entrepreneurial journeys. His dedication to education and innovation is also evident in his support of Carnegie Mellon University, where he contributes to initiatives that connect academia with the startup world. On a personal level, Michael enjoys spending time with his family, staying updated on the latest tech trends, and engaging in activities that fuel his curiosity and creativity.

Michael holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Carnegie Mellon University, an institution renowned for producing some of the world’s top tech talent. His education provided the technical foundation and analytical mindset that have been crucial to his success in the tech industry.