Eugene Kleiner (Kleiner Perkins)
Overview
Eugene Kleiner (12 May 1923 – 20 November 2003) was an Austrian-American engineer and venture capitalist, renowned for his pioneering role in the development of Silicon Valley. A member of the famous "Traitorous Eight," he co-founded Fairchild Semiconductor, a cornerstone of the semiconductor industry. He later established the venture capital firm Kleiner Perkins which significantly contributed to the growth of numerous high-technology companies including Amazon, Google, and Genentech.
Recent Developments
- Although Eugene Kleiner passed away in 2003, his legacy endures through the ongoing success of Kleiner Perkins, the venture capital firm he helped establish.
- As of mid-2025, Kleiner Perkins remains a major force in venture capital, with significant investments in technology and life sciences sectors. It has backed more than 800 companies, including 48 unicorns.
- In recent years, Kleiner Perkins has maintained its reputation by supporting companies like OpenEvidence, a rapidly growing AI-powered medical decision support platform. This indicates the firm’s sustained influence in cutting-edge technology and biotech fields.
- John Doerr, a key figure at Kleiner Perkins since 1980, continues to underscore the firm's legacy and vision by supporting transformational founders and initiating funds like KP21 and Select III.
- The firm's financial success is evidenced by its continued ability to raise large funds, such as the $2 billion raised in 2024, demonstrating investor confidence.
Personal Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Eugene Kleiner |
| Born | 12 May 1923, Vienna, Austria |
| Nationality | Austrian-American |
| Occupation | Engineer, Venture Capitalist |
| Known For | Co-founding Fairchild Semiconductor; Kleiner Perkins |
| Education | BSc in Mechanical Engineering; MSc in Industrial Engineering |
Early Life and Education
Eugene Kleiner was born into a Jewish family in Vienna, Austria, in 1923. In 1938, his family fled the Nazi regime, eventually settling in New York City in 1941. After serving in the U.S. Army, Kleiner utilized the GI Bill to gain a Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the Polytechnic University of New York and a Master’s degree in industrial engineering from New York University. His early experiences as a refugee shaped his determination and influenced his later success in the business world.
Career and Notable Achievements
Eugene Kleiner's career began in engineering at the Western Electric Company. He later joined Shockley Semiconductor Laboratory, but it was his co-founding of Fairchild Semiconductor in 1957 with the "Traitorous Eight" that marked a significant milestone in the computing era. This move catalyzed the development of Silicon Valley. In 1972, Kleiner teamed up with Tom Perkins to launch Kleiner Perkins, a venture capital firm that would reshape industries by financing innovation across various technologies. Some notable investments include:
- Intel: Early investment contributed to this major semiconductor firm’s growth.
- Genentech: A pioneering biotech company that redefined the industry.
- Amazon and Google: Investments that positioned these companies as leaders in the technology sector.
Current Work and Impact
Though Eugene Kleiner passed away in 2003, his enduring impact is witnessed through Kleiner Perkins, which continues to be an influential player in the venture capital landscape. The firm not only supports startups with financial backing but also provides strategic guidance essential for scaling and innovation. Kleiner’s philosophies and investment strategies laid the framework for future venture capitalists to follow.
Conclusion
Eugene Kleiner’s legacy as a fundamental architect of Silicon Valley and the venture capital industry remains significant. Through Kleiner Perkins, he fostered a nurturing environment for innovation in technology and life sciences, reshaping major industry sectors. His influence is perpetuated by the ongoing successes of the companies and entrepreneurs supported by the firm. As the venture capital landscape evolves, Kleiner’s contributions will continue to inspire innovation and growth in the sector.