Playground Global announced that Pat Gelsinger is joining as a general partner, bringing extensive experience in computing and semiconductor innovation from his roles as CEO of Intel and VMware. He will invest, mentor CEOs, and serve as executive chair of xLight, a company developing extreme ultraviolet light sources for semiconductor manufacturing. Playground manages over $1.2 billion and funds early-stage companies in computing, automation, energy, and biology. Gelsinger’s expertise will support projects in quantum computing and biotech. His appointment aligns with Playground’s mission to drive deep tech innovation, making it a strong fit for both parties.
Playground Global announced that Pat Gelsinger is joining the firm as a general partner. Gelsinger brings decades of experience in computing and semiconductor innovation, having served as CEO of Intel and VMware. At Playground, he will invest alongside other general partners, take board seats, mentor CEOs, and contribute technical and operational expertise.
Playground is one of, if not the, most adventuresome and leading-edge VCs in the world. Only Paul Allen’s Vulcan could rival it, and sadly, Vulcan is winding down. But Playground doesn’t bet willy-nilly; the team at the firm have all held senior positions, made lots of money on their own ventures and companies, and know the tech. Also, the firm doesn’t have a set exit strategy or limited range of interest. One of the side benefits of their investment philosophy is they get to look at stuff that is a decade ahead of common knowledge, not the least of which is quantum computing, which has been predicted to be in everyday user as soon as five years. Gelsinger will thrive at Playground, and the firm will thrive because of him. This is a definite synergist situation.
Playground manages over $1.2 billion and is currently deploying capital from a $410 million fund focused on early-stage companies in computing, automation, energy, and biology. Gelsinger will also serve as executive chair of xLight, a portfolio company developing extreme ultraviolet light sources for semiconductor manufacturing.
Gelsinger’s experience will support projects like PsiQuantum’s work on quantum computing and Strand Therapeutics’ programmable mRNA therapies. Gelsinger emphasized the importance of deep tech investments for economic growth and technological leadership. Playground’s team welcomed his technical background and industry insights, aligning with their mission to advance innovation.
Gelsinger remains involved in other efforts, including serving as executive chair at Gloo, a platform supporting values-based AI and human development. He and his wife, Linda, are also engaged in global philanthropic initiatives.
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