National Venture Capital Association announced that Gavin Christensen has been appointed as the 2026-2027 Chair of the NVCA Board of Directors.

Christensen is known for helping develop the Mountain West into a nationally recognized startup ecosystem. Through his work at Kickstart, Christensen built a venture investing model centered on a network of founders, operators, and investors supporting high-growth startups. His efforts also contributed to the broader industry movement toward more distributed and accessible venture capital.

Christensen succeeds Vineeta Agarwala, who served as NVCA’s 2025-2026 Chair.

NVCA also announced the appointment of 10 new directors to its Board of Directors for four-year terms running from 2026 through 2030. The new directors include Adair Newhall, Eric Hippeau, Holly Maloney, Jenny Abramson, Karey Barker, Mike Dodd, Monish Kundra, Paul Madera, Samara Hernandez, and Travis Hawkes.

NVCA said it continues to advocate for policies supporting the American entrepreneurial ecosystem while providing venture capital firms with education, data, networking, and industry resources.

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“Gavin brings a deeply networked and collaborative approach to venture capital that reflects where our industry is headed. He has spent nearly two decades proving that world-class innovation can take root anywhere. Gavin’s leadership will be incredibly valuable as we extend our reach across the full spectrum of venture, from emerging managers to established firms, and across every region of the country, to further strengthen our advocacy for a robust, vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.”

Bobby Franklin, President and CEO, National Venture Capital Association

“Taking on the role of NVCA Chair is a true honor. American venture is strongest when it backs entrepreneurs across the country, from Silicon Valley to Silicon Slopes, Boise to Boston. NVCA plays a critical role in ensuring that founders and investors have a strong voice in the policies that impact whether the United States remains the best place in the world to start and scale a company. I’m excited to get to work and build on that mission.”

Gavin Christensen, Founder And General Partner, Kickstart

“Vineeta brought a clear focus on board and member engagement, along with energy and enthusiasm for pro-innovation policy, enhancing how NVCA connects with our members and advances their priorities. She leaves behind a meaningful legacy, and we are grateful for her leadership and support.”

Bobby Franklin, President and CEO, National Venture Capital Association