NVCA Announces 2025 Startup Champion Award Winners 

Washington, D.C. — The National Venture Capital Association (NVCA) is excited to announce the recipients of the 2025 Startup Champion Award, which honors elected officials who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem and supporting innovation across the United States. 

The 2025 NVCA Startup Champion Award winners are: 

• House Financial Services Committee Chairman French Hill (R-AR) 

• Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (D-WA) 

Both leaders have shown a deep commitment to advancing innovation, supporting the venture capital industry, and creating an environment where startups can thrive. 

Bobby Franklin, President and CEO of NVCA, commented on Chairman French Hill’s achievements: “Chairman Hill has been a steadfast advocate for venture capital funds, tirelessly working to expand access to capital, promote regional growth, and reduce regulatory barriers for companies looking to go public. His leadership on digital assets—particularly through his work on the FIT21 bill—will provide much needed clarity in this rapidly evolving space. We are proud to honor him with the 2025 Startup Champion Award for his significant contributions to the innovation ecosystem.” 

Franklin also praised Congresswoman Suzan DelBene: “Congresswoman Suzan DelBene brings more than two decades of entrepreneurial and business leadership experience to her role in Congress. As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, she has been a dedicated advocate for immediate R&D expensing, which drives innovation and ensures that U.S. startups maintain a leadership role in global technological advancements.” 

About the NVCA Startup Champion Award 

The Startup Champion Award recognizes elected officials for their significant contributions to advancing policy that supports the entrepreneurial ecosystem and creates a more positive environment for new company formation in America. 

### 

The National Venture Capital Association (NVCA) empowers the next generation of American companies that will fuel the economy of tomorrow. As the voice of the U.S. venture capital and startup community, NVCA advocates for public policy that supports the American entrepreneurial ecosystem. Serving the venture community as the preeminent trade association, NVCA arms the venture community for success, serving as the leading resource for venture capital data, practical education, peer-led initiatives, and networking. For more information about NVCA, please visit www.nvca.org.