a16z speedrun opens applications for fifth event with up to $1m on offer

The next iteration of a16z speedrun is set to kick off in July 2025, beginning a 12-week programme in Los Angeles that will conclude in a Demo Day at San Francisco Tech Week.

The event is designed for games industry startups and innovative entrepreneurs to compete, with a16z planning to invest up to $1 million in each selected company.

Named SR005, the fifth iteration of a16z speedrun will be open to creators of games, tools, platforms, XR experiences, next-gen entertainment and new interactive experiences. It will continue a trend of investing in companies pushing forward with tech advancements, AI and entertainment.

Eligible companies should be startups at the pre-seed or seed stage and must apply by May 11th.

Winning themes

The a16z speedrun programme has funded over 120 startups across its previous four events, having invested more than $100m since 2023. The latest event, SR004, saw 42 companies selected for funding out of more than 6,000 applicants, including first-time founders and serial founders with successful exits.

That latest cohort was an international one, with those 42 companies spread across countries like the UK, Canada, Israel, Turkey and Sweden. 69% of them were AI native, 21% focused on B2B and creative tools, while 17% developed "new age" marketplaces.

Participants brought experience from Google, Apple, Amazon, Meta, Unity, TikTok and elsewhere.

"Speedrun is designed for founders who aren’t just following trends - they’re defining them," said a16z principal Josh Lu.

"We’re backing some of the most ambitious entrepreneurs building AI-first products, next-gen entertainment and entirely new interactive experiences.

"Our goal is to provide more than just capital; we’re creating a launchpad where founders receive access to a16z’s deep networks, hands-on mentorship and most importantly a community of ambitious builders that accelerates their success."