Guo’s Conviction Partners Adds GP & Raises $230M Fund

Conviction Partners Adds Former Sequoia Partner

In mid-2022, Sarah Guo departed from Greylock to establish Conviction Partners, a fund concentrating on artificial intelligence. At that time, she stated the inclusion of “Partners” in the firm’s title anticipated the future addition of other General Partners.

Over two years later, this prediction is realized with the joining of Mike Vernal. He previously held a partner position at Sequoia Capital before his departure in 2023.

Second Fund Closure and Growth

Vernal’s arrival coincides with Conviction’s announcement of a successful second fund closure. This new fund secured $230 million in capital commitments.

This represents a significant increase, exceeding more than double the $101 million raised for its initial fund.

Sarah Guo's Rising Profile

The fund’s ability to attract a prominent investor is not unexpected. Guo has actively cultivated Conviction Partners’ reputation over the past two years.

She has become a recognized figure among AI investors in Silicon Valley, holding investments in companies such as Mistral, Harvey, and Sierra.

Furthermore, Guo is a co-host of the widely listened-to AI podcast, “No Priors,” alongside renowned investor Elad Gil.

Mike Vernal's Extensive Experience

Vernal brings substantial experience to Conviction Partners. He dedicated nearly seven years to Sequoia Capital.

Prior to that, he spent eight years at Facebook, serving as a Vice President of Product and Engineering.

Throughout his career, Vernal has spearheaded investments in several successful companies, including Notion, Rippling, and Verkada.

Verkada, a security camera startup, is currently seeking funding at a reported valuation of $4.5 billion.