EquityNet Hires Dell Executive

Technology startup, EquityNet LLC of Fayetteville, has hired a world-class team member to sell its services to the world.

Peter van Kooij of Austin, Texas, joined the company as vice president of sales and marketing on Sept. 1. He was formerly a global account manager with Dell Inc. and managed between $50 million and $100 million in accounts.

But van Kooij isn’t worried about joining a startup. “Dell got too big for me,” he said. “I’ve always wanted to work for a startup … it was now or never.”

EquityNet’s Web-based software links entrepreneurs seeking capital with private equity investors, using a system of peer comparisons and links the potential risks and returns of companies seeking investors.

EquityNet is headed by CEO Ron Goforth and Chief Technology Officer Judd Hollas.

Since its launch in January, the company has registered 92 investors and 80 different entrepreneurs.

Van Kooij will work from his home in Austin, but will be striking relationships with potential clients on both coasts, he said.