Meet Class 30

Meet Class 30

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Congratulations to the 66 Kauffman Fellows of Class 30. With 20 countries represented across 6 continents, Class 30 reflects the continued evolution of the global innovation ecosystem.  

Each year, we select a new cohort of Kauffman Fellows from a highly competitive pool of thousands of applicants. These cohorts are intentionally designed, and Kauffman Fellows are selected based on their proven leadership, track record, and our belief in their potential to shape the future of the venture capital industry.
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Class 30 by the Numbers:

• $102 billion combined AUM
• 1,000+ venture deals collectively led
• 76% hold partner-level or higher positions
• 73% are direct investors
• 53% are GPs or key decision-makers
• 44% are women

Celebrating 30 years of Impact with Class 30 

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When Kauffman Fellows launched 30 years ago in 1995, the industry was more nascent. Fellows were top talent in other industries with aspirations to enter the world of venture capital. Today, Kauffman Fellows are already well into their venture capital careers and the selection process is focused on more seniority with a mix of emerging managers (GPs) and established managers (partners and principals) as well as LPs, CVCs, and other ecosystem players.

Class 30 enters the start of their Fellowship with 76% holding partner-level or higher positions and a median of 6 years direct investing experience - our most experienced incoming class to date. Class 30 has collectively led over 1,000 venture deals managing over $102 billion in combined AUM.  

New This Year: LP Strategic Initiative 

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Kauffman Fellows is uniquely designed to support limited partners as vital contributors to the venture ecosystem. Since opening the Fellowship to a select number of LPs a decade ago, interest has grown steadily year over year. 

With the exceptional quality of LP candidates on the rise and growing demand for more integrated cohorts of LPs and GPs, Class 30 was intentionally designed to include our highest number of LPs to date.

“We’re investing in the future of both LPs and GPs and redefining how these relationships are built. With integrated programming at every event and a private LP Special Interest Group (SIG), we’re doubling down on building the most trusted global community in venture where long-term relationships and continuous learning fuel the future of the industry,” said Kirsten Owens, Head of LP Relations.

What Fellows Can Expect

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Throughout the two-year program, Class 30 will participate in:

• Confidential “under the hood” conversations with world-class industry leaders
• Curated peer-to-peer small sessions 
• Workshops focused on performance, firm-building, and leadership

After graduation, Fellows continue to gain value through the Kauffman Network with access to curated events, special interest groups, and a global network of 1,000+ alumni across 65+ countries. This network opens doors to continued learning, co-investment opportunities, and deep professional relationships.

Applications for Class 31 open in October 2025.

Meet all members of Class 30 by viewing the bio book here.