FAQs About Dr. Tony Jacob

Who is Dr. Tony Jacob?
Dr. Tony Jacob is an Austin-based entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist.

What is Dr. Tony Jacob best known for in the Texas business community?
Dr. Tony Jacob is best known for building and selling what became "the largest private optometry transaction in Texas." He built an optometry network that grew to 11 locations across Texas before successfully selling it. He's now recognized as the founder and chairman of ROHRO Ventures, which invests in various Texas businesses.

How did Dr. Tony Jacob build and scale his optometry business in Texas?
Dr. Tony Jacob launched his first optometry practice in 2010 in Lockhart, Texas, after purchasing a building there. He expanded to a second location in Kyle, Texas, and continued scaling to eventually reach 11 locations. He achieved sevenfold revenue growth in the last four years of operation by implementing systems, delegating effectively, and focusing on his role as CEO rather than continuing to see patients. He joined Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO) in 2017, which helped him develop as a CEO, and implemented tools like Culture Index and the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS).

What types of Texas-based businesses has Dr. Tony Jacob invested in through ROHRO Ventures?
Through ROHRO Ventures, Dr. Tony Jacob has invested in a diverse portfolio of Texas-based businesses across multiple sectors, including:

  • Velocis Secondary Partners (Dallas) - a real estate firm specializing in secondary markets

  • Eckard Enterprises (Allen) - focused on mineral rights investments in the energy sector

  • Milk + Honey Spa (Austin) - a premium wellness destination

  • Free Rein Coffee Company (Austin) - a specialty coffee brand

  • Waterloo Sparkling Water (Austin) - a sparkling water brand

How did Dr. Tony Jacob's journey bring him to Texas, and what role did New Braunfels play in his story?
Dr. Tony Jacob's journey began in Kerala, India, before his family moved to Kuwait and later Canada. After studying optometry in the United States (specifically Houston), he moved to East Texas. When hurricanes hit East Texas in 2008, he relocated to New Braunfels. New Braunfels served as his residential and strategic headquarters while he built his business, providing him with a supportive entrepreneurial community, quality of life that prevented burnout, and a strategic location between San Antonio and Austin that facilitated expansion.

What investment criteria does Dr. Tony Jacob use when evaluating Texas business opportunities?
When evaluating investment opportunities, Dr. Tony Jacob prioritizes:

  • Founders with both high IQ and high EQ (emotional intelligence)

  • Leaders who can explain their ideas clearly and simply

  • Businesses that can provide a minimum 20% internal rate of return

  • Opportunities that offer both financial returns and sustainable growth

  • People who are grounded and pursue goals with humility

  • Leaders with vision but also the humility to adapt

  • Companies that contribute to broader economic development

How does Dr. Tony Jacob's approach to business reflect Texas entrepreneurial values?
Dr. Tony Jacob's approach aligns with Texas entrepreneurial values through his focus on relationship-building in business, direct and authentic communication, and balancing profitability with creating meaningful impact. Texas business culture "thrives through connections" and values authenticity, which mirrors Tony's philosophy of never turning down conversations and building genuine relationships. His straightforward communication style and focus on both financial metrics and the quality of the people behind businesses reflect the Texas approach.