Fred Ehrsam

Fred Ehrsam is a highly influential figure in the cryptocurrency and blockchain industry, best known as the co-founder of two pivotal organizations: Coinbase and Paradigm. After co-founding Coinbase, one of the world's largest cryptocurrency exchanges, Ehrsam transitioned his focus to venture capital, co-founding Paradigm in 2018 alongside Matt Huang. Paradigm quickly established itself as a premier investment firm dedicated exclusively to the crypto and Web3 space, embodying Ehrsam's deep conviction in the transformative potential of decentralized technologies.

Under Ehrsam's leadership, Paradigm has become a powerhouse in crypto investing, known for its long-term, high-conviction approach to backing foundational projects. The firm invests across all stages, from early-stage startups building core protocols and infrastructure to more mature applications within the Web3 ecosystem. A testament to its significant capital deployment capabilities and market confidence, Paradigm notably raised a colossal $2.5 billion venture fund in November 2021, which was, at the time, the largest crypto-focused fund ever. This was followed by another substantial $850 million fund in April 2024, further solidifying its position as a dominant force.

Paradigm's investment strategy is characterized by its hands-on support for portfolio companies, often providing technical, operational, and strategic guidance in addition to capital. While specific check sizes can vary widely depending on the stage and needs of the project, a typical first check from Paradigm for a promising crypto startup generally ranges from $5 million for early-stage ventures to upwards of $100 million for more established projects or significant token purchases. This flexibility allows Paradigm to be a lead investor in substantial rounds, shaping the trajectory of the decentralized internet. Ehrsam's vision for Paradigm is to be a patient, value-add partner to the most ambitious founders building the future of crypto.