Ron Conway Resigns from Salesforce Foundation Following CEO’s Controversial Political remarks
Renowned venture capitalist Ron Conway, known for his early backing of tech titans such as Google, Airbnb, and Meta, has stepped down from the board of the Salesforce Foundation. This move follows contentious political comments made by Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff that have ignited widespread debate.
Ending a Decade of commitment to Social Causes
For over ten years, Conway played a pivotal role on the Salesforce Foundation board, championing initiatives aimed at improving education and workforce development for disadvantaged youth. In 2023 alone, the foundation invested $36 million in these efforts and managed assets exceeding $400 million. His exit signals a notable change within an organization deeply committed to social impact.
The Breaking Point: Conflicting Political Perspectives
Conway and Benioff shared a close friendship spanning 25 years rooted in progressive ideals. However, recent public endorsements by Benioff-including support for former President Trump and advocating National Guard patrols on San Francisco streets-created an irreparable divide between them. These statements sharply contrasted wiht their previous alignment and ultimately led to Conway’s resignation.
“It is with great regret that I say this,” Conway wrote directly to Benioff via email. “your latest remarks reveal a side I no longer recognize in someone I once respected deeply.”
The changing Political Landscape Among Silicon Valley Leaders
This incident exemplifies a growing trend among influential technology executives who have shifted their political loyalties in recent years. While many historically supported Democratic candidates, figures like Benioff have recently expressed backing for Trump-related policies or rhetoric-sparking intense discussions within Silicon Valley’s traditionally liberal environment.
Benioff’s public praise of Elon Musk’s approach toward government efficiency combined with his admitted detachment from current immigration enforcement news has further fueled unease among industry observers. Despite owning Time magazine-a major media outlet-Benioff acknowledged not closely following certain political developments.
Tensions Surface at Dreamforce 2025 Event
The discord between Conway and Benioff became widely known during Dreamforce 2025-the annual flagship conference hosted by Salesforce in San Francisco-which drew thousands amid heightened scrutiny over tech leadership amid political controversies. Neither party issued immediate statements following the announcement of Conway’s departure.
A Statement from the Salesforce Foundation
A representative from the foundation expressed sincere appreciation for Conway’s decade-long service and invaluable contributions while reaffirming their ongoing dedication to philanthropic missions despite changes in leadership dynamics.
The Wider Implications for Tech Philanthropy Amid Political Divides
This episode underscores how divergent political beliefs can reshape leadership relationships within major philanthropic organizations linked to technology firms. As Silicon Valley navigates evolving political identities among its key players-with some executives embracing more conservative stances-stakeholders remain attentive to how these shifts might influence corporate social duty initiatives moving forward.
