a16z has run U.S.-focused talent, go-to-market, and media teams for 15 years, helping growth-stage startups land top hires, secure early customers, and amplify their messages. Now, tech’s global pull means founders need international reach well before they’ve set up local offices. So a16z is adapting its U.S. playbooks—relationship mapping, structured GTM motions, operator guidance—to markets where network gaps traditionally slow expansion. They’ll zero in on allied regions that combine strategic importance with high barriers to entry. In North Asia—Japan, Korea, Taiwan—demand for AI, defense, and robotics is soaring, yet success hinges on a respected local brand and cultural fit. a16z will open a Japan office and has already launched in Korea. In the Middle East, governments and corporations are racing to diversify economies. In Europe, beyond the UK, companies face varied cultural and regulatory climates. And in Mexico and Latin America, rapid modernization in banking, energy, and public services creates fresh demand for cutting-edge software and infrastructure. English-language markets get lower priority since growth-stage firms often navigate those on their own. Internally, Raghu Raghuram will lead this push, working alongside Anne Neuberger (Global Affairs GP), Jen Kha’s Global Partnerships team, plus existing talent and GTM squads. The aim is a repeatable, long-term blueprint rather than ad-hoc deals, giving portfolio founders the structured support they need from day one of expansion.