Is Robert Scoble an Investor in Quora?

The Case Against Investment

Although there is no hard evidence, many believe that Robert Scoble is not an investor in Quora. Here are the reasons why:

1. Focus on Technology

As a tech entrepreneur based in San Francisco, Robert Scoble has been a consistent influencer in the tech world. He has a genuine passion for technology, and like any passionate individual, he occasionally becomes overexcited. This excitement is part of his charm and what makes him unique. His focus on emerging technologies and his ability to spot trends makes him one of the go-to voices in the tech industry.

2. Passion and Authenticity

Scoble's passion for technology is evident in his blog posts and interviews. He is known for his enthusiasm and the way he shares his insights with the tech community. The responsibility of the readers is to interpret this passion and decide whether to invest in the technologies or startups he highlights. Also, his network and influence are significant, making his recommendations highly valued.

3. Promising Service

Quora is indeed a promising service that has brought to the masses many of the functionalities that were popularized by platforms like Stack Overflow and Google Wave. Scoble's enthusiasm for Quora is a testament to the potential of this platform.

Robert's Role in the Startup Ecosystem

Robert Scoble, through his unique role and influential network, plays a pivotal part in the startup ecosystem. His ability to spot emerging technologies and promote them to a wide audience is unparalleled:

1. Attention and Influence

Robert has a knack for generating immense attention for startups. Unlike being just discussed on TechCrunch, his constant networking and discussions with industry leaders can drive massive visibility. This level of attention is invaluable for startups looking to gain traction and exposure.

2. Time Investment vs. Money Investment

While Scoble may not invest in startups with money, he does invest his time. He treats his time like a venture capitalist, betting on good technology, strong teams, and fun projects. This approach shows his belief in the startup ecosystem and his dedication to supporting innovative businesses.

3. Ethical Considerations

Scoble does not accept compensation from startups and has turned down advisory board positions in the past. Currently, he holds a full-time position at Rackspace, one of the world's largest internet hosting companies, where he is well-compensated. This shows his commitment to being transparent and ethical in his interactions with startups and the tech industry.

Freebies and Transparency

Although Scoble occasionally accepts freebies from companies, he discloses this information. His current freebies include:

A Google Nexus S phone on loan A Dell laptop (which he should send back) A Sonos system (which he should buy or send back) A PogoPlug system A Roku box (he prefers Apple TV) A Boxee box (he prefers Apple TV) A Ford Explorer loaned for a trip to CES

His stance on freebies is part of his ethical framework, as he finds it difficult to write about something he has received for free. This transparency adds credibility to his reviews and opinions.

Conclusion

Scoble's contributions to the tech industry extend beyond financial investment. His focus on emerging technologies, his passion for sharing this knowledge, and his ethical boundaries all add value to the startup ecosystem. Whether through his blog, direct interactions, or his network, Scoble's impact on the tech world is significant.