San Francisco – September 22, 2026 -- Owl Ventures, the world's largest venture capital firm focused on education and workforce innovation, has named NBA legend Chris Paul as Venture Partner, adding a high-profile figure to a firm managing more than $2.2 billion in committed capital.
Owl Ventures backs over 100 companies reaching 700 million users worldwide
The firm operates three global offices and has made over 100 investments in companies helping people learn, prepare for work, and build skills throughout their careers. Its portfolio companies collectively reach more than 700 million users globally.
Paul brings eight years of NBA labor leadership experience to founder support role
As Venture Partner, Paul will support founders, convene strategic partners, and leverage relationships to help portfolio companies expand reach and impact. He previously served eight years as president of the National Basketball Players Association, representing players through major business and labor negotiations and helping advance player empowerment and economic opportunity across the league.
Paul frames education as a driver of opportunity beyond the classroom
"Education is where real change starts," Paul said. "That can happen in a classroom, through a trade, with a mentor, or through the lessons you learn from family and community." He said his upbringing instilled the value of work ethic and ownership, values he sees reflected in Owl's investment approach.
Firm leadership cites AI-driven shifts in learning and workforce skills
Owl Ventures Managing Partner Ian Chiu said Paul's instinct for "seeing the floor, recognizing potential, and helping others succeed" extends beyond basketball into his work as an entrepreneur and community builder. Co-Founder and Managing Partner Tom Costin said that as AI reshapes how people learn and work, sector insight and practical support for founders matter more than ever, calling Paul's addition "a powerful new dimension" to the firm's work.