SPEEDRUN is a highly intensive accelerator program by a16z Games (Andreessen Horowitz) designed for the next generation of founders at the intersection of games and technology. The program aims to support ambitious entrepreneurs building everything from game studios to infrastructure and consumer platforms. By combining a16z's deep venture capital expertise with a network of industry icons, SPEEDRUN provides a specialized environment to refine products, build teams, and secure substantial early-stage investment.
Program details
The accelerator is structured to provide deep technical and business support specifically for the games industry.
- Verticals: The program seeks startups in game development (PC, Console, Mobile), AI-driven gaming tools, social platforms, infrastructure, and the "metaverse" ecosystem.
- Support: Participants work directly with the a16z Games team and a curated group of mentors including legendary founders and operators from the global gaming sector.
- Curriculum: Founders engage in workshops covering game design, growth loops, monetization, community building, and hiring.
Eligibility
SPEEDRUN is open to both new and experienced founders globally.
- Stage: The program is ideal for "Day Zero" founders, pre-seed, or seed-stage startups.
- Profile: a16z seeks technical founders, creative directors, and visionary operators. You do not necessarily need to have a fully formed company or a finished game to apply; many applicants enter at the "idea" or "prototype" stage.
- Team: While solo founders are considered, there is a preference for teams with complementary technical and creative skills.
Structure and timeline
The program is designed as a fast-paced, 12-week experience culminating in a major demo day.
- Format: A hybrid model featuring virtual sessions and in-person events at a16z’s offices in locations like San Francisco or Los Angeles.
- Cohort Cycles: a16z typically runs two cohorts per year.
- Demo Day: The program concludes with an exclusive Demo Day where founders pitch to hundreds of elite investors, including a16z partners and outside venture funds.
Benefits
Accepted startups receive a massive influx of resources and brand prestige.
- Mentorship: Direct access to a16z general partners and industry veterans from companies like Riot Games, Blizzard, and Epic Games.
- Community: Participation in an elite founder community, fostering long-term peer-to-peer support.
- Partner Perks: Access to deep discounts and credits for game engines, cloud services, and specialized AI tools.
- Post-Program Support: Graduates become part of the permanent a16z portfolio ecosystem, receiving ongoing support for future funding rounds.
Funding or investment terms
The financial commitment from a16z is standardized and substantial for early-stage teams.
- Direct Investment: a16z typically invests $750,000 in every company that is accepted into the program.
- Terms: The investment is generally structured as a SAFE or a similar equity-based instrument, ensuring founders have immediate capital to hire and build during the 12-week sprint.
Application and selection process
The selection process is extremely competitive, with thousands of applicants vying for approximately 30 spots.
- Initial Application: Founders submit a brief form and a short video pitch explaining their vision and team background.
- Interviews: High-potential candidates go through a series of technical and strategic interviews with members of the a16z Games investment team.
- Selection Criteria: The team looks for "market-moving" ideas, technical excellence, and the ability to execute quickly (speed of iteration).
SPEEDRUN by a16z Games is perhaps the most prestigious accelerator for gaming and tech-adjacent founders. By offering a significant $750,000 investment alongside unparalleled access to industry legends, it serves as a high-velocity launchpad for the future of entertainment. Ambitious creators should monitor the official portal for the next application window to join what has become a definitive ecosystem for the gaming industry.