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David Booth

David Booth

Partner at a16z, Co-founder of On Deck, builder of networks

San Francisco Bay Area
substack
Joined January 2025
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Network

7.4K connections
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Summary

David Booth is a visionary leader in venture capital, deeply focused on transforming VC into a 'network effect business.' His philosophy centers on building robust ecosystems and leveraging 'preferential attachment' to amplify the success of startups, an approach he's cultivated through his foundational work at AngelList and On Deck, and now as Partner, Head of Ecosystem at Andreessen Horowitz. substack
A natural community builder, David has consistently demonstrated an ability to connect ambitious individuals and foster collaborative environments. From leading the London community for On Deck to founding Diaspora.nz and curating 'Something New ✨' dinners, he excels at creating platforms for entrepreneurs to find peers, mentors, and resources, particularly for emerging talent and New Zealanders abroad. dayone+2
David has a profound commitment to nurturing talent and potential, especially among young, ambitious individuals. His advisory role at Crimson Education, alongside his personal investment in his child's education there, highlights his belief in the long-term 'talent flywheel' and his dedication to helping the 'Next Great Expats' find their path and thrive globally. linkedin

Work

Education

Writing

Joining a16z

October 22, 2025

A personal announcement and philosophical deep dive into his role at Andreessen Horowitz, focusing on building ecosystem and leveraging network effects to drive venture capital success. He discusses the concept of 'preferential attachment' and how VC firms can act as 'networked product builders.'

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On Deck Dinner Series: How We Learn — Education & Technology

July 26, 2018

Discusses education and technology within the context of the On Deck dinner series.

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On Deck — Now Live in London! 🇬🇧🚀

July 16, 2018

Announces the launch of On Deck in London, describing it as a dinner series and evolving community for world-class entrepreneurs.

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Navigating cities and minds

November 20, 2017

A metaphorical piece comparing a city to a body of knowledge, drawing from his experience living in London.

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Network Topology

November 17, 2017

A reflection on networks, inspired by Michelangelo's quote about sculpture within stone.

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A Technique for Producing Ideas

November 16, 2017

Explores the process of generating ideas, contrasting popular romanticized views with a more structured technique.

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Invested: A startup’s guide to raising VC capital in New Zealand

August 25, 2014

An interview (republished from a tech blog) offering guidance on securing venture capital in New Zealand.

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Hobbies

Hosts the 'Diaspora.nz' podcast, interviewing successful New Zealanders living abroad. spotify

Notes

MDMiles Deamersaid they've witnessed
DBDavid Booth
earn the respect of top VCs or startup peers through their work as a founder.

Dec 1, 2025