Key Facts
Career & Education
About
Oren Shoval is an Israeli-American entrepreneur best known as the co-founder and CEO of Via Transportation, a pioneering ride-hailing, ride-sharing, and transit technology company founded in 2013 in New York City. Via specializes in on-demand shared mobility solutions, partnering with public transit agencies and municipalities to optimize routes, reduce congestion, and promote sustainable urban transportation. Under Shoval's leadership, the company has grown rapidly, operating in over 35 countries, serving millions of passengers annually, and securing substantial venture funding from investors including John Frankel of FF Venture Capital, with whom Shoval maintains financial and professional partnerships. Via's technology has been implemented in cities like Washington D.C., Chicago, and Austin, transforming traditional bus and paratransit services into efficient, app-based systems.
Born and raised in Israel, Shoval developed an early interest in technology and engineering. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering and Management from the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, one of the world's top engineering institutions. After graduating, Shoval gained professional experience in software development and operations within Israel's vibrant tech sector before relocating to the United States to immerse himself in the New York startup ecosystem. His background in optimization algorithms and systems engineering directly informed Via's core technology, which uses AI to match riders and minimize vehicle miles traveled.
Shoval's career reflects a commitment to addressing global urban challenges through innovation. He has been instrumental in positioning Via as a key player in the mobility-as-a-service (MaaS) space, advocating for public-private partnerships to enhance accessibility and environmental sustainability. While specific personal details remain private, Shoval's Israeli roots and transatlantic journey underscore his role in bridging international tech talent with American markets.