I remember Howard telling me the story of tracking down Skype. I was certainly envious, I learned he had almost a year to work with the lads before I downloaded the first version. Having met Niklas and Howard, it was easy to see how this hidden partnership worked. I've learnt a lot as a result and about how Silicon Valley works. Congratulations Howard! It's quite a story.

Together with his partner (Howard) Hartenbaum, Draper invested about $250,000 into Skype in late 2002. They became the first outside investors, and enjoyed a 5 percent stake. (And while the exact numbers aren't known, they invested when Skype was valued at less than $2 million -- meaning they've seen close to a thousandfold return.) MercuryNews.com | 09/15/2005

So what next Howard? Will the ecosystem get some investments? I'm ready to talk the next big thing!