Victor Lazarte, known for co-founding mobile gaming company Wildlife Studios, is leaving his role as a venture capitalist to start his own investing firm.
Why it matters: Lazarte’s departure marks a significant shift in the venture capital landscape, as he brings his extensive experience and network to his new venture.
The details:
- Lazarte announced his plans to “build a new investment practice” on Thursday, July 24, 2025.
- During his tenure, he invested in startups such as a recruiting and data labeling business, AI video intelligence platform HeyGen, and an AI infrastructure company.
- Lazarte had recently informed his portfolio companies about his plans to leave, according to a source.
- He is the second investor to step down this year, following Sarah Tavel’s announcement in April.
Lazarte’s former firm operates uniquely among VC firms, with all general partners equally sharing management fees and profits. The remaining partners include Peter Fenton, Eric Vishria, and Chetan Puttagunta.
The background: Lazarte co-founded Wildlife Studios, which was last valued at an estimated $3 billion in 2020 and raised money from various VCs.
What’s next: The exact details of Lazarte’s new venture remain undisclosed, but industry insiders anticipate that his firm will focus on innovative investment opportunities, capitalizing on his extensive experience and network within the venture capital landscape.