Speedrun

Applications for SR005 are officially open

Samira Behrouzan and Joshua Lu Posted March 31, 2025

Apps for a16z speedrun’s upcoming cohort are officially open ??

We’re investing up to $1M in pre-seed/seed startups in tech, entertainment, and AI.

Applications are officially open for our upcoming Fall/Winter cohort in Los Angeles starting today through May 11th, 2025. Apply now → sr.a16z.com and for more info on the program, past speakers, and FAQs check out speedrun.a16z.com.

Why a16z speedrun?

Since launching speedrun ~2 years ago, we’ve funded 120+ pre-seed/seed startups with over $100 million invested. Each participating founder gets 1:1 mentorship and support from a cracked team of operators across talent, recruiting, bizdev, marketing, and capital network functions. Our mandate is to support the boldest builders across tech and entertainment globally—we even provide support with visas.

Who We’re Looking For

We’re looking for founders building experiences, products, and platforms that push the limits of technology, entertainment, and AI.

That includes:

  • AI-first creative tools or infrastructure
  • AI agents designed to enhance or augment human labor
  • AI consumer apps that reimagine how we connect, create, and play
  • Next-gen AI marketing tools that help businesses and creators reach their audiences
  • Platforms for real-time collaboration, play, or expression
  • Games, virtual worlds, or immersive storytelling experiences
  • 3D, multiplayer, or next-gen content creation engines
  • Tools for identity, avatars, or streaming in digital spaces
  • Or something we haven’t even imagined yet

We welcome solo founders and small teams, especially those with a strong track record of shipping, a knack for unique insights, and the grit to move fast.

Timeline + How to Apply

? Application Deadline: May 11, 2025
? Program Location: Los Angeles (in-person required)
? Program kicks off July 28th and runs through October 10th, 2025

In case you missed it you can start your app here: sr.a16z.com

And get more info on the program, FAQs, and guest speakers here: speedrun.a16z.com

P.S. Since you’re here, we’ll let you in on a little secret — early applications get reviewed first, so don’t procrastinate.

We’re excited to run it back for SR005 and can’t wait to see you all in LA ☀️

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