William H. Draper Jr. was an American venture capitalist and a prominent figure in the technology investment sector. Born in 1928, he played a significant role in the growth of Silicon Valley by investing in early-stage technology companies. Draper was known for his foresight in identifying promising startups, which contributed to the development of the modern venture capital industry. Draper founded Draper Associates, a venture capital firm, and was instrumental in the success of several notable companies, including Skype and Tesla. His work helped shape the landscape of technology investment, making him a respected figure among entrepreneurs and investors alike.