A16Z spends $1.49M in Washington lobbying, while rivals mostly sit out
16 days ago
- #venture-capital
- #lobbying
- #technology-policy
- Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) has spent $1.49 million on federal lobbying in 2024, outpacing its own trade group, the National Venture Capital Association (NVCA).
- Lobbying expenditures are accelerating, with $1.8 million spent in 2024 and $950,000 in 2023.
- A16z's lobbying strategy is unique among major VC firms, with most reporting minimal federal lobbying (e.g., Sequoia Capital at $120,000, General Catalyst at $500,000).
- The firm focuses on influencing policies related to digital assets, stablecoins, AI, and defense, including the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
- A16z's bipartisan in-house policy team includes former government officials, such as ex-deputy national security advisor Anne Neuberger.
- The firm supports candidates who advocate for a 'technology-enabled future' and opposes those who restrict tech advancements.
- A16z is expanding into regulated industries like defense and AI, aligning with its American Dynamism initiative.
- Venture funds also influence politics through PACs, such as a16z's backing of the pro-AI PAC network Leading the Future.
- Founders Fund, despite minimal lobbying, has significant influence in the Pentagon and White House through its network.