20VC: The Biggest Lessons From Working Alongside John Doerr, How To Optimize The Speed of Investment Decision-Making & Why Saying No Graciously Is The Most Important Thing with Shabih Rizvi, Founding Partner @ Gradient Ventures

Unconventional Path

Shabih Rizvi's journey into venture capital was anything but typical. Born between the Bay Area and the Middle East, he initially pursued a career in biotech at Genentech before his passion for technology led him to AdMob, a mobile advertising startup that was later acquired by Google 1. At Google, Shabih worked with startups and mobile entrepreneurs, eventually catching the attention of venture capitalists who encouraged him to explore the VC world. He recalls, "I was fortunate enough to have a couple of folks wanting to take a flyer on me," which led to his role at Kleiner Perkins 1.

   

Starting Gradient Ventures

At Gradient Ventures, Shabih Rizvi focuses on AI startups, leveraging Google's resources to support early-stage companies. He co-founded the fund with Anna Patterson and Ankit Jain, growing the team to nearly twelve members 2. Shabih emphasizes the importance of supporting founders, a lesson he learned from John Doerr, who demonstrated unwavering commitment to entrepreneurs even in challenging times. "Seeing him really step up when things may not be working out...was a reminder," Shabih reflects 2.