Enrique Allen, a beloved entrepreneur and co-founder of Designer Fund, has passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. He died at the age of 39, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, mentorship, and passion for helping the next generation of designers and entrepreneurs. Enrique's untimely passing has deeply affected the technology and design communities, where he was widely recognized for his significant contributions to both the startup ecosystem and the world of design.
Allen was a visionary leader who believed in the transformative power of design and its ability to change the world. As co-founder of Designer Fund, he worked tirelessly to provide early-stage support to design-driven startups, offering both funding and valuable guidance to entrepreneurs looking to make their mark. Designer Fund’s mission was to empower designers and ensure they had the resources and platforms they needed to thrive in the tech world. Enrique's work allowed him to build strong relationships with talented designers, entrepreneurs, and investors, many of whom considered him a mentor, friend, and source of inspiration.
Enrique's journey into the startup and design world began when he was a student at the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned a degree in Industrial Engineering and Operations Research. His interest in design grew as he recognized the importance of creating products that not only functioned well but also delivered outstanding user experiences. After graduating, he worked at several companies before co-founding Designer Fund with his partner, Jonathan D. Allen, in 2011. The fund was established with the goal of bridging the gap between designers and entrepreneurs, providing an invaluable space for the two communities to come together and collaborate on innovative products that prioritize user-centered design.
Over the years, Enrique Allen made a profound impact on the startups and organizations he worked with, serving as both a strategic advisor and a connector. His belief that design should be at the core of every successful company led him to invest in and support a variety of design-focused ventures. His ability to see the big picture and focus on long-term outcomes allowed him to guide startups through some of their most critical phases, providing not just funding but also expertise on how to build products that resonate with users.
While his professional success was widely acknowledged, it was Enrique’s personal qualities that left a lasting impression on those who had the privilege of working with him. He was known for his generosity, warmth, and unwavering support of others. Colleagues and peers described him as someone who made them feel valued and respected, someone who genuinely cared about their well-being and success. His commitment to mentorship and his drive to help others achieve their goals were at the heart of his work. He was not just a business partner or advisor, but a true friend to many, offering his time and expertise whenever it was needed.
Enrique’s battle with cancer was a difficult and private journey, but he remained resilient and optimistic throughout. His family, friends, and colleagues rallied around him in support, providing strength during the most challenging moments. Despite his illness, he continued to work with Designer Fund, maintaining his dedication to helping design-driven startups and making a difference in the industry he loved. His ability to balance his personal struggles with his professional responsibilities was a testament to his character and the strength he possessed.
His passing has left a deep void in the design and startup communities. As people remember Enrique Allen, they reflect not only on his business achievements but also on his kindness, humility, and the positive impact he had on the lives of others. Many have shared stories of how he went out of his way to offer guidance and mentorship, how his approach to life and work inspired them to push boundaries and create meaningful change.
Enrique’s death is a loss not only to his family and friends but to the entire design community, which has lost a true advocate for the importance of design in shaping the future. His contributions to the field will continue to be felt for years to come, as the companies and designers he supported carry forward his vision of using design to drive innovation and improve the lives of users.
Enrique Allen is survived by his family, friends, colleagues, and the countless individuals whose lives he touched over the years. His legacy will live on in the work of Designer Fund and in the continued success of the startups he helped launch. His memory will forever inspire those who knew him to be better mentors, collaborators, and human beings, just as he was throughout his life.
