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Nikunj Kothari

Partner to founders. Lifelong builder.

Partner at FPV Ventures. Investing in seed and Series A.

Previously Khosla Ventures, Meter, Opendoor, Shyp, Atlassian.

About Nikunj ↗

Founders

Backing founders with latitude and agency. I help with product-market fit, building the team, and the decisions in between.

How I work

Where I invest

I typically invest in seed and Series A companies at FPV Ventures.

We focus on product and GTM, and tend to back founders that think deeply about both. We’re technical, but if you want the most hardcore technical investors, there are better funds we can point you to.

We like to lead or co-lead rounds and are flexible on check size. Our investing team is small and nimble, so our process is fast. Usually a few meetings max when there’s conviction.

I don’t invest at the pre-seed stage.

What I look for

I look for founder-market fit, which comes down to two things: latitude (your freedom to maneuver) and agency (your ability to execute).

Markets I like

The best problems look like icebergs. What you see on the surface is tiny compared to what’s underneath.

I spent 10 years building companies in networking hardware, real estate, and logistics, so I gravitate toward deeply unsexy markets—the kind that have a real shot at becoming monopolies while everyone else chases the shiny stuff.

I’m a generalist, but I don’t invest in bio, crypto, or defense. These spaces require specialized expertise I don’t have.

How I help

I’ve been the first PM at multiple startups and led product at companies like Opendoor and Meter. I help in two main ways: navigating the idea maze to find your path to product-market fit, and building the right team to execute.

I’m good at turning vague ideas into clear plans and can jump between high-level vision and tactical details. I’ve done this enough times to know which threads are worth pulling.

I show up when you actually need it, not just in scheduled check-ins. Early mornings brainstorming product direction, late nights working through tough decisions, or helping you close a key hire. I’m not here to impose my playbook. I’m here to amplify what makes you exceptional.

When things get tough, I help you absorb the chaos. When things are working, I’m the one pushing harder.

Previously: Meter · Opendoor · Shyp · Atlassian

Let’s take a walk

I hate reading decks and doing the same intro calls over Zoom. I’d rather take a long walk and debate the real substance of your business.

I show up with a prepared mind and 3–5 specific questions I want answered. Then we get into the details—not just what you’re building, but why you’re the one who can win.

If you want an investor who will match your intensity while respecting your autonomy, let’s talk.

Let’s talk ↗

Side projects

A few things I’ve made

Podcasts