I adopted a structured follow‑up cadence for VC outreach, sending one thoughtful follow‑up every two weeks that highlights progress and learns from any brief feedback.
followup_cadence = every two weeks
followup_content.focus = share what you’ve built, what’s changed, and what you’ve learned
feedback_value = even a short reply can change the game. a no, not right now, or a piece of feedback can help you understand where you stand
VC evaluation focus = founder_not_product
founder_trait.audacity = true
founder_trait.grit = true
founder_trait.agency = true
founder_trait.clarity = true
founder_trait.unfair_advantage = true
vc_belief.large_outcome = true
vc_belief.best_team = true
vc_belief.timing_right_now = true
At the pre‑seed stage I learned that VCs evaluate the founder before the product, looking for audacity, grit, agency, clarity, and an unfair advantage, then check the market. They only write a cheque when they believe the venture will generate a large outcome, the team is the best to build it, and the timing is right now.
Founders are advised to take a step back and evaluate their pitch, story, and work from an investor’s lens before fundraising.
If a founder lacks that perspective, they should talk to someone who has it.
The advice is described as absolutely essential.
I am building a tool that can help founders gain that investor lens.