What do early-stage investors really want to see?
In episode 5 of the TxO Startup Hotline, Kofi Ampadu, partner and head of Talent x Opportunity at Andreessen Horowitz, answers one of the most common questions founders ask when looking to raise capital:
“What are the exact things an investor needs to see from my business to invest at an early stage?”
Kofi breaks down the key signals investors look for before writing that first check – and how to tell a story that makes them believe in your vision.
He covers:
What “traction” actually means at an early stage
Why investors care about market strategy – not just market size
The team qualities VCs look for in early-stage startups
Why storytelling is your most underrated fundraising tool
Want your question answered in the series? Call 1-844-DIAL-TXO and leave us a message.
Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro to Episode 5 of the TxO Startup Hotline Series
0:27 – “What do investors want to see before writing a check?”
0:53 – Why traction matters (and what it looks like early)
1:08 – How to show market opportunity
1:21 – What makes a strong founding team
1:37 – Why differentiation helps you stand out
1:50 – The role of storytelling in fundraising
2:02 – Final thoughts on attracting early-stage investment
The Talent x Opportunity initiative at Andreessen Horowitz (a16z TxO) supports founders building cultural innovations through funding, training and ongoing mentorship. Learn more about a16z TxO and stay updated:
https://a16z.com/txo
https://x.com/a16ztxo
https://www.instagram.com/a16ztxo/
https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/a16z-txo
The content here is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. Please note that a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed in this product. For more details, including a link to our investments, please see a16z.com/disclosures
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