Social Capital
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Social Capital, founded in 2011 by Chamath Palihapitiya, built prominence through early bets on Slack and Yammer, before steering toward a family-office structure. It previously managed over $1B in assets from external LPs, but after returning funds and halting new external raises, now operates with permanent capital focused on deep tech, biotech, and decentralization. Chamath, also known for pioneering SPACs, continues to champion contrarian and socially oriented strategies via proprietary balance-sheet investments. The firm’s evolution reflects Palihapitiya’s shift from traditional VC to a mission-driven investment vehicle with flexibility and self-directed capital.
Location:
Palo Alto / Menlo Park, California, United States
Fund Size:
Historically managed over $1.1B; has since transitioned toward a family office/permanent capital model
Average Check:
Not publicly specified; shifted emphasis from external LP-driven rounds to capital from founder’s balance sheet
Stage Focus:
Originally broad (seed to growth), but now concentrates on climate science, life sciences, biotechnology, and digital decentralization from personal capital
Household Brands:
Early investments include Slack, Yammer, Box, Opendoor, Groq, SecondMarket
Contact:
Kusuma Ala (Partner) Kusuma@socialcapital.com
Danlin Xiao (Finance Manager) Danlin@socialcapital.com
