Kofi Ampadu Departs from a16z
Kofi Ampadu, the partner at a16z who led the firm’s Talent x Opportunity (TxO) fund and program, has announced his departure from the firm. In an email obtained by JS, Ampadu expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the TxO initiative, which aimed to support underserved founders in the tech industry.
In his email titled “Closing My a16z Chapter,” Ampadu reflected on his time at the firm, stating, “Identifying out-of-network entrepreneurs and supporting them as they sharpened their ideas, raised capital, and grew into confident leaders was one of the most meaningful experiences of my career.”
Having led the TxO program for over four years until its pause in November, Ampadu’s departure may signal the end of the TxO chapter. The program, which focused on providing access to tech networks and investment capital for underserved founders, received mixed reviews due to its controversial donor-advised structure.
The TxO program also launched a grant program in 2024, offering $50,000 to nonprofits supporting diverse founders. However, the program’s indefinite pause in March 2025 coincided with a shift in the tech industry towards reevaluating diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
In his farewell note, Ampadu shared a personal anecdote about his experience as an immigrant student in the United States, highlighting the systemic challenges faced by individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. He emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between talent and opportunity, a mission that defined his work at a16z.
As Ampadu moves on to his next chapter, he expressed pride in the work accomplished through the TxO initiative and gratitude for those who supported the program. While his departure marks the end of an era for TxO, Ampadu remains committed to addressing systemic barriers and supporting overlooked founders in the tech industry.
