- a16z has spent $1.49M on federal lobbying in 2025, surpassing its industry group NVCA.
- The firm is lobbying on AI, crypto, defense, and national security issues with bipartisan staff.
- Strategic hires and PAC support expand a16z’s influence beyond registered lobbying.
Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) is ramping up its influence in Washington, reporting $1.49 million in federal lobbying so far in 2025—surpassing its own industry trade group, the National Venture Capital Association (NVCA). The move highlights the venture firm’s growing commitment to shaping policy across technology, defense, and national security.
Lobbying Spend Hits New Heights
According to lobbying disclosures reviewed by TechCrunch, a16z’s federal lobbying spend has steadily increased in recent years: $950,000 in 2023, $1.8 million in 2024, and now $1.49 million midway through 2025. By comparison, most major venture capital firms report far lower federal lobbying activity—Sequoia Capital at $120,000 year-to-date and General Catalyst at $500,000.
The firm’s aggressive approach underscores a strategic effort to directly influence policymakers on emerging technology regulations, including digital assets, AI, and stablecoins. While lobbying dollars don’t automatically translate to influence, a16z is clearly positioning itself as a heavyweight in Washington.
Expanding into Defense and National Security
Andreessen Horowitz is not limiting its focus to tech regulation. For the first time, defense-related issues have appeared in lobbying disclosures, including the National Defense Authorization Act and consultations with the National Security Council. The firm’s interest in defense aligns with its American Dynamism initiative, which emphasizes investment in AI, cyber, and the industrial base.
Former deputy national security advisor Anne Neuberger recently joined a16z as a senior advisor, focusing on American Dynamism, AI, and cybersecurity. This appointment signals the firm’s intent to merge venture capital with strategic policy influence in sensitive sectors.
Bipartisan Approach and PAC Support
Despite co-founders Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz supporting former President Donald Trump in 2020, the firm’s policy team is explicitly bipartisan, drawing talent from both sides of the aisle. Beyond registered lobbying, a16z channels resources through political action committees (PACs), including a recently reported pro-AI network called Leading the Future, further expanding its reach in policy circles.
Also Read: Trump, SEC Shake-Up, and Crypto: Is Washington Finally Embracing Digital Assets?
Andreessen Horowitz’s growing lobbying footprint reflects a broader trend of venture capital firms seeking to shape policy across high-stakes technology sectors. With strategic hires, bipartisan outreach, and a focus on defense and national security, a16z is asserting itself as a central player in Washington’s tech policy landscape.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of CoinBrief.io. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. Coin Brief is not responsible for any financial losses.
