Kofi Ampadu Departs a16z Amid TxO Program Hiatus
Kofi Ampadu, a partner at a16z, has announced his departure from the firm following the temporary suspension of the Talent x Opportunity (TxO) fund and program. This decision was revealed in an email sent to the staff, which highlighted the firm's strategic pause on TxO and the resultant layoffs.
"During my tenure, I was profoundly grateful for the opportunity and trust to lead this initiative," Ampadu stated in his farewell message. He reflected on the transformative experience of identifying and supporting out-of-network entrepreneurs, enabling them to refine their ideas, secure funding, and emerge as confident leaders.
The TxO program, which Ampadu directed since 2020, was designed to empower underserved founders by facilitating access to technology networks and venture capital through a donor-advised fund. However, the program faced criticism for its donor-advised structure, despite positive feedback from some participants.
In 2024, the initiative expanded to include a grant program, allocating $50,000 to nonprofits aiding diverse founders. The last cohort occurred in March 2025, preceding the program's indefinite hiatus as major tech firms reassessed their commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Ampadu's departure may mark the conclusion of the TxO chapter, yet it also signifies a new beginning for him. "I leave with pride in our achievements and gratitude for those who contributed to shaping them," he concluded, expressing enthusiasm for future endeavors.
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