a16z Show The Secret Marketing Strategy That Built a16z: From Zero to Legendary VC Firm
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Nov 26, 2025 
In this discussion, Margit Wennmachers, a marketing executive and the force behind a16z’s rise, reveals the unconventional strategies that catapulted the firm into fame. She explains how transparency transformed VC norms, highlights the pivotal Fortune cover that ruffled feathers in the industry, and shares the story behind the iconic phrase 'Software is Eating the World.' Margit also emphasizes the power of building authentic personal brands and how media's evolution demands a fresh approach in leadership communication.
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Founding A16Z In A Restaurant Booth
- In 2009 Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz raised $300M to start a VC while having no prior VC track record. Margit Wennmachers joined as head of marketing and the firm operated initially out of a restaurant booth.
Craft Stories Reporters Can Run With
- Dissect how reporters build stories and supply the narrative they need to cover you. Craft communications that give reporters a clear, entrepreneur-focused story to tell.
Market To Entrepreneurs, Not Just Investors
- They targeted communications at entrepreneurs, not LPs, to build credibility and attract founders. Deep, practical content (how to build/manage companies) became the magnet that made unknown partners feel familiar to entrepreneurs.
