Builders, not breakers—that's the philosophy shaping how leading venture firms operate today. In an ecosystem where founders need support rather than criticism, a16z has embedded this principle into something tangible: a written culture code that every team member must pledge to uphold. The commitment is clear: no public attacks on founders or startups. This isn't just corporate speak—it's a structural decision. By making culture doctrine rather than casual practice, the firm ensures that defending innovation isn't left to individual judgment. It's the difference between hoping people act right and building systems where they have to.