Funding & Finance
Four Criteria That Separate a Real VC Partner From a Check Writer: A Founder's Diligence Framework
Founders should move beyond VC brand names and conduct structured diligence across four key criteria: investment thesis, check size and follow-on capacity, genuine value-add, and founder alignment. Verifying these claims through backchannel conversations with portfolio founders is crucial for selecting a long-term partner.
Sofia Reyes·October 19, 2026
