Erik de Stefanis

Managing Partner

Erik knows small business from the inside out. He grew up in an entrepreneurial family, got his start mowing lawns, and spent a formative stretch living in northern Sweden during high school — all of which gave him a deep respect for the people who build and run businesses every day.

His career has spanned both worlds: investing in technology companies as a venture capital partner, and doing the hands-on work of growing a small business in rural Ohio. That combination taught him something important — the best technology doesn't replace what makes a small business great, it just helps the people running it do more of it. Erik is a firm believer in adopting technology at a human pace, in ways that actually make sense for your team and your customers.

Educated at Uppsala University and Harvard Business School, Erik brings his VC experience, operational background, and a deep network of small business operators and advisors to DVL Partners — where he partners closely with founders to help them grow together.