Several Venture Forward initiatives were incubated under NVCA before our launch. These initiatives include VC University, Emerging Manager Office Hours, and the VC Human Capital Survey. Since our founding, we have expanded on these and developed new ones.
View our 2021 Impact Report, 2022 Impact Report, 2023 impact highlights, 2024 impact highlights, and 2025 Impact Report.
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Our mission is simple: Unlock the full positive power of venture capital by ensuring the industry reflects and serves all communities across the country. Stronger representation, healthier people practices, and intentional talent development fuel better investment decisions, more innovation, and stronger economic outcomes.
Across all Venture Forward programs, alumni report:
This is what ecosystem change looks like.
Although incorporated as “The Venture Capital Foundation” in 2015 and granted 501(c)(3) status by the IRS in 2017, NVCA officially launched its supporting organization as Venture Forward in 2020, backed by $5.5M in commitments from VC leaders, SVB, Deloitte, and Gunderson Dettmer. With a two-person team and amid the pandemic, the organization prioritized high-quality virtual programming—including the online and LIVE versions of VC University, while expanding both the scholarship and mentorship components.
Introduced a life sciences track to VC University. Launched a new virtual workshop on brand-building for junior investors. Pivoted LP Office Hours to a virtual format—hosting two programs and later renaming it Emerging Manager Office Hours (EMOH). Surpassed 100 donors. Published the 3rd VC Human Capital Survey. Launched the Impact Inclusion Award, presented in partnership with NVCA.
Testified before the U.S. Congress on the importance of inclusive innovation and investment. Hosted three VC University cohorts and two EMOH programs. Held the inaugural holiday party, which has become an annual tradition.
Underwent a brand refresh and expanded the team. Celebrated NVCA’s 50th anniversary with a NYSE bell ringing and the successful “50 for 50” donation campaign. Filed an amicus brief in support of Fearless Fund. Scaled in-person engagement through Emerging Manager Leadership Dinners, DEI Leadership Dinners, and VC University events across the country. Released the 4th VC Human Capital Survey.
Marked the 5-year anniversary of VC University. Rebranded and expanded LP Office Hours into Emerging Manager Office Hours, hosting programs in San Francisco and New York. Surpassed 4,000 individuals educated through VC University.
Moved to a new office in San Francisco. Surpassed 300 emerging managers supported through EMOH. Launched the new VC and Emerging Manager Power Hour series to accelerate mid-career investor development. Released the 5th VC Human Capital Survey. Formed a partnership with Ford Foundation to support GPs at funds 3, 4, and 5 via a new GP Masterclass program.
