Venture Unlocked: The playbook for venture capital managers The Solo GP Playbook: Zal Bilimoria on Fundraising, Portfolio Strategy, and Founder Relationships
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Feb 19, 2025 
Zal Bilimoria, Founding Partner of Refactor Capital, shares his journey from tech titan to venture capitalist. He discusses the unique challenges of being a solo GP and emphasizes the importance of strong founder relationships. Zal explains his philosophy behind maintaining a $50 million fund, aligning strategy with investment integrity. He delves into the nuances of managing investments amid evolving market dynamics, such as the impact of AI on decision-making. His passion for technology and sustainability shines as he navigates the future of venture investing.
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A16Z's Monday Meetings
- Zal Bilimoria describes the intense Monday partner meetings at A16Z, involving back-to-back founder pitches and in-depth deal reviews.
- This experience solidified his desire to pursue a career in venture capital.
Treating Founders
- Treat founders with respect, be prepared for meetings, and offer helpful feedback, even when passing on investments.
- Building a strong brand and network is crucial, especially for first-time funds.
Solo GP Journey
- Zal Bilimoria became a solo GP despite prior experience in team-oriented environments.
- David Lee, his co-founder at Refactor Capital, retired after two years, prompting this transition.