Kofi Ampadu Leaving a16z After TxO Program Pause
- Kofi Ampadu, the partner at Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) who spearheaded the firm's Talent x Chance (TxO) fund and program, has left the company, as confirmed by an email...
- The Talent x Opportunity (TxO) fund,launched in 2023,aimed to invest in pre-seed companies founded by underrepresented founders.
- Ampadu led the TxO program,which included a fellowship designed to help founders navigate the challenges of building a startup.
Kofi Ampadu Departs Andreessen Horowitz
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Kofi Ampadu, the partner at Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) who spearheaded the firm’s Talent x Chance (TxO) fund and program, has left the company, as confirmed by an email he sent to staff on January 29, 2026. This departure follows a November 2025 pause of the TxO fund.
The Talent x Opportunity Fund
The Talent x Opportunity (TxO) fund,launched in 2023,aimed to invest in pre-seed companies founded by underrepresented founders. a16z’s official TxO page details the fund’s focus on providing capital and support to founders who lack access to conventional venture capital networks. The fund committed $55 million to 50 companies in its frist cohort.
Ampadu led the TxO program,which included a fellowship designed to help founders navigate the challenges of building a startup. The program offered mentorship, workshops, and access to a16z’s network of experts.
Pause of the TxO Fund and Ampadu’s Departure
In November 2025, a16z paused new investments from the TxO fund, citing a shift in the firm’s strategy. TechCrunch reported on November 3,2025,that this pause coincided with Ampadu taking medical leave. Ampadu’s email to staff, obtained by TechCrunch, confirmed his departure, but did not specify the reason.
According to The Details (subscription required, January 29, 2026), a16z plans to integrate the TxO program’s resources into its broader portfolio support efforts.
Ampadu’s Background
Prior to joining a16z in 2022, Ampadu was the founding CEO of Include, a platform focused on connecting underrepresented talent with companies. Kofi Ampadu’s LinkedIn profile details his experience at Include and a16z. He also previously held roles at Facebook and Google.
a16z’s Response
a16z has not publicly commented on Ampadu’s departure beyond acknowledging his contributions to the firm and the TxO fund. A tweet from the official a16z Twitter account (January 29, 2026) thanked Ampadu for his leadership and wished him well in his future endeavors.