Mike Taus
Principal and Co-founder, Code Benders

A start-up geek at heart, Michael thrives on moving interesting ideas from the whiteboard to the world. His passions include simplifying complexity, understanding business needs and building happy teams.

Since 1996, Michael has been starting and managing rapid-growth technology businesses with an emphasis on Internet, Telecom, wireless and software ventures. He has participated in the founding, development, financing and management of several early-stage technology companies, including officer and board-level positions. He has maintained a broad range of professional responsibilities including strategic planning, finance, operations, marketing and corporate governance.

In 1999, he co-founded and was the VP, Business Development and General Counsel of Rent.com (acquired by NASDAQ:EBAY). Former client companies include In-Sync Interactive, GreenlightJobs.com, Genutec, FlyFone International and Pacific Media Ventures. He has also participated in early stage investments including Internet Brands (NASDAQ:INET), HiMax, GoMed, Electron Networks and others.

Michael has an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of California, Irvine and a Juris Doctorate degree from the McGeorge School of Law.