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VZVC is a venture capital firm founded in October 2025 and based in San Francisco, California. The firm focuses on investments at the intersection of artificial intelligence and healthcare, aiming to support innovative companies that utilize AI to address significant health and biology challenges. VZVC is in the process of raising its first fund, targeting a size of up to $400 million, although this has not yet been officially confirmed.
The firm is co-founded by Vijay Pande, PhD, a former leader of Andreessen Horowitz's Bio + Health fund, and Zack Werner, a startup investor. Their combined experience and networks in the biotech and healthcare sectors provide VZVC with a strong foundation for identifying and supporting promising startups. As of early 2026, VZVC is ramping up its investment activities and aims to build a diverse portfolio that aligns with its focus on AI and healthcare.
VZVC is dedicated to investing in early-stage companies that are pioneering the use of artificial intelligence in healthcare and biotech. The firm primarily targets Seed and Series A stages, seeking to partner with visionary founders who are committed to transforming the healthcare landscape through technology and innovation. VZVC's investment strategy emphasizes a thesis-driven approach, focusing on AI-native healthcare solutions that can address health and biology challenges at scale.
The firm looks for startups that demonstrate a clear application of AI in their business models, particularly those that can significantly impact patient care or streamline healthcare processes. VZVC values founders who possess a strong vision and the capability to execute their ideas effectively. The firm is also open to co-investment opportunities, leveraging its network to enhance the potential for success in the competitive biotech landscape.
VZVC's first publicly disclosed investment is in Devoted, a healthcare services company, made on January 30, 2026. This investment marks the beginning of VZVC's portfolio as it seeks to ramp up its deployment pace throughout 2026. The firm aims to build a diverse array of companies that align with its focus on AI applications in healthcare and biotech.
As VZVC continues to grow, it is expected to expand its portfolio significantly, targeting companies that leverage AI to solve pressing health and biology problems. The firm’s commitment to this sector positions it well to capitalize on emerging trends and innovations in healthcare technology.
Vijay Pande, PhD - Co-Founder & Managing Partner. Vijay is a Stanford scientist with extensive experience in the biotech sector. He founded and led Andreessen Horowitz's Bio + Health fund for over a decade before departing in June 2025 to establish VZVC.
Zack Werner - Co-Founder. Zack is a startup investor and the 'Z' in VZVC. His background in early-stage investments complements Vijay's expertise, providing a balanced leadership team focused on AI and healthcare.
To pitch VZVC, founders should visit their website at vz.vc or send an email to contact@vz.vc. It is important to include a detailed overview of the startup, highlighting the innovative use of AI in healthcare or biotech. Founders should also outline their market opportunity and growth strategy.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions through mutual connections, especially within the AI or healthcare sectors, can enhance the chances of a successful pitch.
On January 30, 2026, VZVC made its first publicly disclosed investment in Devoted, a healthcare services company. This investment marks a significant milestone for the firm as it begins to build its portfolio in the AI healthcare space.
As of early 2026, VZVC is actively ramping up its investment activities and is expected to close its first fund, targeting a size of up to $400 million. The firm has garnered attention from various media outlets, including STAT News and VCWire, highlighting its focus on AI-driven healthcare solutions.
What are VZVC's investment criteria?
VZVC focuses on early-stage companies in the Seed and Series A stages, particularly those utilizing AI in healthcare and biotech. The firm seeks visionary founders with innovative solutions that can address significant health challenges.
How can I pitch to VZVC?
Founders can pitch to VZVC through their website at vz.vc or by emailing contact@vz.vc. It is advisable to include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and how AI is integrated into the solution.
What makes VZVC different from other venture capital firms?
VZVC differentiates itself through its focused investment thesis on AI applications in healthcare and biotech, backed by the extensive experience of its co-founders in these sectors. This specialization allows for a more informed sourcing and diligence process.
What is the expected check size for investments?
While specific check sizes have not been disclosed, VZVC is expected to lead Seed and Series A rounds, which typically range from $1 million to $10 million, depending on the startup's needs and growth potential.
What geographic areas does VZVC focus on?
VZVC primarily focuses on investments within North America, targeting startups that are innovating in the healthcare and biotech sectors.
What kind of support does VZVC provide to portfolio companies?
VZVC adds value through deep industry expertise, a robust network, and operational support, enhancing the potential for success in the competitive biotech landscape.
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