Tony Aquila is a seasoned entrepreneur, investor, and transformation-driven leader with a decades-long track record of building and scaling disruptive technology companies across mobility, software, and data sectors.

Entrepreneurial Success & Executive Leadership

Aquila began his entrepreneurial journey by founding MaxMeyer America, Inc., a European automotive refinishing distributor acquired by PPG Industries in 1997. He went on to launch Ensera, Inc., a pioneering claims workflow software company serving the insurance and collision repair sectors, which was later acquired by Mitchell International.

In 2005, Aquila founded Solera Holdings, Inc., transforming it into a global automotive technology powerhouse. Under his leadership, Solera completed more than 50 acquisitions, went public in a $1 billion IPO (2007), and was later taken private in a $6.5 billion buyout (2016). He led the company until 2019, establishing its global dominance in automotive data and software solutions.

In 2021, Aquila stepped in as CEO and Executive Chairman of Canoo Technologies, Inc., guiding the electric vehicle company through a turbulent period. Despite financial and operational challenges, he spearheaded strategic partnerships with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), and NASA, advancing innovative mobility solutions. His leadership helped secure key fleet agreements and expand production capacity. However, after a valiant effort to reposition the company, Canoo ultimately filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in 2025.

AFV Partners: Purpose-Driven Investment

In 2019, Aquila founded AFV Partners, an investment firm focused on mission-critical software, data analytics, and environmentally positive marketplaces. With a philosophy rooted in high-impact transformation, AFV has backed numerous market-defining ventures, including:

   •  Sportradar (sports data; NASDAQ IPO, 2021)
   •  Weedmaps (cannabis marketplace; NASDAQ IPO, 2021)
   •  Canoo Technologies (EV manufacturer; NASDAQ IPO, 2020)
   •  Simplebet (real-time sports betting; acquired by DraftKings, 2024)
   •  Aircraft Performance Group, RocketRoute, and Seattle Avionics (aviation and mobility software)
   •  The Lost Explorer Mezcal (sustainable premium spirits brand)

Philanthropy & Civic Engagement

Aquila is the founder of LIFT (Life Is Full of Transformation), a philanthropic initiative focused on empowering underserved communities through education, mentorship, and workforce development. He also serves on the board of Guardianship Services, Inc., advocating for at-risk adults in Texas through financial education and legal support.

He champions impact-oriented corporate giving, promoting direct engagement and measurable change over passive contributions.

Military Service, Patents & Recognition

Aquila’s formative experience in the U.S. Army instilled the resilience and leadership that continue to define his career. He is the inventor of over 100 patents across the fields of automotive systems, cybersecurity, and aeronautics. In recognition of his contributions, he was appointed to the Future Mobility Council of Arkansas (2022) and honored with the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year™ Award in 2013 (Technology category).