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VC Victor Lazarte is leaving Benchmark to launch his own firm
Victor Lazarte is leaving Benchmark to launch his own investment firm after two years with the venture capital company. Known for co-founding Wildlife Studios, valued at $3 billion, he has invested in multiple tech startups during his tenure. His departure marks the second this year from Benchmark, which operates on an equal partnership model among its general partners.
Key points
- Victor Lazarte has announced his departure from Benchmark Venture Capital.
- He co-founded Wildlife Studios, estimated at $3 billion in 2020, which received funding from various VCs, including Benchmark.
- During his two-year tenure at Benchmark, Lazarte invested in startups like Mercor, HeyGen, and Decart AI.
- Lazarte aims to build a new investment practice, having informed portfolio companies of his decision.
- He is the second partner to leave Benchmark this year, following Sarah Tavel's announcement in April.
- Benchmark's unique equal partnership model means all general partners share fees and returns equally.
Why it matters
- The departure reflects broader trends in venture capital, where individual investors seek autonomy and new ventures.
- This shift aligns with the growing focus on AI-driven companies, as highlighted by investments Lazarte made.
- 2025 IT Trends emphasize innovation in tech, mirroring the changes in investor strategies and startup focus, as seen in events like TechCrunch Disrupt.
- Benchmark's operational model contrasts with other firms, showcasing an evolving business approach in the VC sector.
Lazarte's move to start his own firm underscores a shift in venture capital dynamics, emphasizing individual initiative and the potential growth of AI-focused startups, aligning with current industry trends leading up to 2025.