TLDR:
- Venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) to invest $30 million in tech-focused gaming startups.
- $750,000 will be distributed to a maximum of 40 companies through the SPEEDRUN program.
Venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) has announced a $30 million investment in technology-centric gaming startups, focusing on AI, VR/AR, and Web3 games. General partner Andrew Chen oversees the Games One Fund and stated that investments will be made in the intersection of tech and games, including AI/infra, 3D tools, VR/AR, web3 games, and gamified consumer apps. The $30 million will be allocated over 45 days through the firm’s early-stage accelerator program known as SPEEDRUN.
The SPEEDRUN program is a 12-week endeavor that offers capital, industry coaches, mentors, and a supportive community for participants. Applications are open to a wide range of startups, from early-stage ideas to those with established products and real revenue. Only a small percentage of applicants are accepted into the program, but 80% of companies from the first cohort secured funding after Demo Day.
The firm’s Web3 gaming graduates include Matchday and Promodium, both Web3 games. The Web3 gaming market is expected to grow significantly by 2030, with a projected market value of $614 billion. Andreessen Horowitz has previously invested in blockchain-based gaming startups like Mythical Games, Yield Guild Games, and Voldex, as well as popular games like Roblox and Axie Infinity.
The firm’s commitment to investing in the gaming sector underscores the potential for growth and innovation in technology-driven gaming startups. With the SPEEDRUN program offering support and resources to selected startups, the initiative aims to drive progress and success in the gaming industry.
