Founders Fund is a San Francisco-based venture capital firm established in 2005 by Peter Thiel, Ken Howery, and Luke Nosek. With approximately $12 billion in assets under management as of 2023, the firm is renowned for backing transformative technologies and has been instrumental in the early funding of companies like SpaceX, Palantir Technologies, and Facebook.
Founders Fund maintains a generalist investment approach, funding companies across all stages, sectors, and geographies. The firm emphasizes investments in revolutionary technologies that have the potential to reshape industries and society at large.
In April 2025, Founders Fund closed a $4.6 billion growth equity fund, marking the largest capital raise in the firm’s history. This fund significantly surpasses the $3.4 billion second growth fund raised in 2022 and reflects the firm’s continued confidence in backing bold, high-potential ventures across various stages.
Leadership
The firm's leadership comprises notable figures such as Peter Thiel (Co-founder of PayPal and Palantir), Brian Singerman, Lauren Gross, Scott Nolan, Trae Stephens, Napoleon Ta, Matias Van Thienen, Sam Blond, Joey Krug, Jennifer Campbell, and Ryan Petersen.
Investment Strategy
Founders Fund adopts a founder-centric philosophy, supporting exceptional entrepreneurs with bold visions. The firm is known for its willingness to invest in high-risk, high-reward ventures that aim to solve significant global challenges.
Notable Investments
The firm's portfolio includes influential companies such as SpaceX, Palantir Technologies, Stripe, Airbnb, Facebook, Anduril, Flexport, and Neuralink.
Notable Exits
Founders Fund's early investment in Facebook stands out as a significant exit, contributing to the firm's reputation for identifying and supporting transformative companies.
