The design and venture capital communities are mourning the loss of Enrique Allen, cofounder and general partner of Designer Fund, who passed away this week following a courageous battle with cancer. Enrique’s extraordinary life and work left a profound impact on countless lives, and his legacy as a designer, mentor, and innovator will endure.

A Life of Inspiration

Enrique Allen was a visionary leader who radiated positivity and vitality. His infectious energy brought joy to everyone he encountered, and his ability to uplift those around him was unparalleled. He was a man of deep passion and commitment, leaving an indelible mark on the design and tech ecosystems.

Professional Achievements

As the cofounder of Designer Fund, Enrique was dedicated to investing in and empowering designers who aimed to create meaningful change in the world. His work in the design and venture capital sectors showcased his talent for merging creativity with impactful business strategies.

Prior to his role at Designer Fund, Enrique’s expertise was instrumental in shaping projects at leading venture capital firms, including:

• 500 Startups
• Facebook’s fbFund
• Venrock

During his tenure, Enrique played a key role in the investment of successful companies, such as:

• Wildfire, later acquired by Google
• Behance, later acquired by Adobe

Academic Contributions

Enrique was a Stanford University alumnus and a Bay Area native who was deeply committed to education. At Stanford’s renowned design school, he taught dmedia, one of the institution’s most popular courses. Through his mentorship, he inspired a new generation of designers to think creatively and strive for excellence in their work.

A Legacy of Impact

Enrique’s dedication to design and innovation was matched only by his compassion and humanity. Those who had the privilege of working with him remember him as a brilliant mind, a generous spirit, and a steadfast advocate for creativity. His impact on the design world and the lives he touched will be felt for years to come.

Mourning and Tribute

Enrique’s passing is a profound loss to his family, friends, colleagues, and the broader design community. Tributes have poured in from across the world, highlighting his brilliance, kindness, and unwavering positivity.

As the community comes together to honor his memory, Enrique’s life reminds us of the power of design to transform the world and the importance of bringing joy and purpose to our work.

Remembering Enrique Allen

The legacy of Enrique Allen will live on through the countless individuals he inspired and the enduring impact of his work. His life was a testament to the power of creativity, connection, and compassion.