The emergence of New Founding, a venture capital firm, signals a growing movement within the tech industry that seeks to challenge prevailing progressive ideologies and build a “parallel economy” rooted in conservative values. Initially known for its plans to establish a Christian enclave in Kentucky, New Founding has shifted its focus to investing in “aligned companies” – startups that reject “wokeism” and embrace a MAGA, tech-driven, Christian worldview. The firm views technology, particularly the internet and cryptocurrency, as instrumental in achieving its goals of cultural and economic disruption. Its manifesto outlines a vision of challenging the existing power structure and acquiring the resources and institutions necessary to reshape Western civilization. While its initial venture fund is modest, with $3 million raised, it has already invested in ten startups, including a Christian-branded health insurance provider and an ad-tech company catering to gun manufacturers. New Founding aims to create conservative alternatives to mainstream services perceived as too liberal, tapping into a perceived demand for such options.
The involvement of prominent Silicon Valley figures lends credence to New Founding’s mission. Billionaire Marc Andreessen, a co-founder of Andreessen Horowitz (A16z), has invested a six-figure sum in the fund. Andreessen, a vocal critic of “wokeism,” sees a shift away from progressive ideals in the tech industry. Other Silicon Valley voices, including A16z partner Katherine Boyle, have appeared on New Founding’s podcast, further aligning the firm with a tech counterculture movement emphasizing patriotism, American manufacturing, and defense technology. This movement reflects a broader trend of investors seeking returns by aligning with conservative values. Billionaire Vivek Ramaswamy launched an investment firm to push companies away from “woke” ideals, while Azoria Capital introduced an ETF that shuns companies supporting DEI initiatives. These initiatives reflect a belief that adherence to conservative principles offers a viable investment strategy.
1789 Capital, another firm in this space, has hired Donald Trump Jr. as a partner and raised over $150 million for a growth equity fund. Like New Founding, 1789 Capital seeks to invest in companies that reject ESG principles and globalization, contributing to the “parallel economy.” Its portfolio includes Substack, Rumble, and the Tucker Carlson Network. Omeed Malik, president of 1789 Capital, criticizes established firms like Sequoia for their past investments in China, highlighting a perceived disconnect between traditional venture capital and evolving cultural and political landscapes. While the long-term success of the “anti-woke” investment thesis remains to be seen, the influx of capital and the involvement of influential figures suggest growing momentum.
The potential impact of this movement is magnified by the return of Donald Trump to the presidency and the presence of J.D. Vance, a venture capitalist, in his administration. Neil Patel, who leads the Tucker Carlson Network, sees a significant market opportunity in catering to the segment of the population that feels underserved by the “normal corporate world.” This aligns with the view that Silicon Valley’s traditional progressive ideals, which fueled its rise to dominance, have now become a hindrance to innovation and prosperity. Figures like Andreessen argue that “wokeness” has stifled American business and created a cultural climate hostile to technological advancement. This perspective frames the “anti-woke” movement not just as a political or cultural stance, but as a necessary corrective to restore American technological leadership.
Andreessen’s investment in New Founding is consistent with his broader philosophy of minimizing government intervention and unleashing innovation. His “Techno-Optimist” manifesto advocates for a forceful approach to technological development, while his political shift to the right and endorsement of Trump reflect his growing disillusionment with established institutions and what he perceives as a “left-wing reactionary scream” against capitalism and technology. Both Andreessen and New Founding believe a “vibe shift” is underway, with legacy institutions declining and new cultural movements emerging. They see this as an opportunity to reshape society and redefine the role of technology in the 21st century.
New Founding, led by Harvard Law graduate Nate Fischer, strategically targets three key groups: MAGA supporters, the “dissident tech world,” and the Christian right. Fischer views these groups as components of a nascent movement poised to reshape the political and cultural landscape. While his public pronouncements sometimes adopt a provocative tone, suggesting an impending civilizational cycle and the need for new models and institutions, he insists that this is not a call for violence or unrest. Rather, he views societal upheaval as inevitable, taking various forms from financial crises to the collapse of political systems. Fischer acknowledges New Founding’s initial “dissident” approach and his willingness to engage in online provocation to attract attention and build a following. However, with Trump’s return to the presidency, he indicates a potential shift towards a less confrontational approach, focusing on articulating a positive vision rather than simply reacting against “wokeness.”
