Victor Lazarte Departing Benchmark to Establish New Venture Firm

Victor Lazarte, a prominent venture capitalist at Benchmark, has announced his departure from the renowned firm after a two-year tenure to establish his own investment company. This transition, confirmed via his post on X (formerly Twitter) on July 24, 2025, marks a significant shift in his professional trajectory and has garnered attention within the technology and investment sectors.

Lazarte initially gained recognition as a co-founder of Wildlife Studios, a mobile gaming company valued at approximately $3 billion in 2020. His previous success in this entrepreneurial venture laid a strong foundation for his subsequent role at Benchmark, where he invested in innovative startups such as Mercor, a recruiting and data labeling company, HeyGen, an AI-driven video intelligence platform, and Decart AI, which focuses on AI infrastructure solutions.

During his time at Benchmark, Lazarte contributed to the firm's reputation for fostering groundbreaking technologies and startups. According to sources familiar with the matter, he informed his portfolio companies of his intentions to leave Benchmark shortly before making his public announcement. His departure also follows the earlier exit of Sarah Tavel, who transitioned to a venture partner role within the same year.

Benchmark operates under a unique model where all general partners share management fees and profits equally, contrasting with the typical hierarchy seen in many venture capital firms. This egalitarian approach has allowed Benchmark to attract a diverse range of talented investors and entrepreneurs. Following Lazarte's exit, the remaining partners include Peter Fanton, Eric Vishria, and Chetan Puttagunta, who will continue to uphold the firm’s investment philosophy.

Lazarte’s decision to launch his own firm comes at a time when venture capital investments are undergoing significant changes, particularly with the increasing emphasis on artificial intelligence and technology innovation. His new investment practice is expected to focus on identifying and supporting startups that leverage cutting-edge technologies, aligning with industry trends towards digital transformation.

Experts in the venture capital field emphasize the importance of such moves in fostering a dynamic investment landscape. Dr. Emily Carter, a Professor of Finance at Stanford University, noted, "Entrepreneurs like Lazarte play a crucial role in shaping the future of tech by providing capital and mentorship to emerging companies. His transition reflects a broader trend where established investors seek to create their own platforms for investment."

As Lazarte embarks on this new chapter, the implications of his departure extend beyond Benchmark, potentially influencing the strategies and dynamics within the venture capital ecosystem. Observers are keen to see how his experience and insights will inform his new firm’s approach to investment and whether he will continue to drive innovation in the startup landscape.

The venture capital community remains attentive to developments surrounding Lazarte’s new venture, especially in light of the evolving technological landscape and the impact of artificial intelligence across various industries. With the increasing complexity of market demands, the need for adept investors who can navigate these changes is more critical than ever.

In conclusion, Victor Lazarte's shift from Benchmark to launching his own firm exemplifies the ongoing evolution within the venture capital sector, highlighting the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for both investors and startups alike. As he establishes his new practice, the industry will be watching closely to see how his vision and strategies unfold in the coming years.