How matching worksVC landscape: what each type looks for
Use the right proof points for each stage and sector. Work through one section at a time.
Pre-seed / angel / scout / micro-investor
Checks: ~$50K–$750K
They look for
- Founder-market fit: unique insight or edge
- Speed: can you ship fast?
- Early proof: waitlist, prototype, pilots
Checks: ~$750K–$3M (may lead)
They look for
- PMF trajectory: retention (D30 / WAU / MAU)
- Early revenue: $5K–$100K MRR or validated pilots
- Repeatable GTM: clear acquisition hypothesis
Checks: ~$5M–$20M (ownership often 12–20%)
They look for
- Repeatable sales: typically >$1–2M ARR for SaaS
- Retention: NRR >100%
- Efficient payback: CAC payback <18 months
They look for
- Scale: >$10–30M ARR
- Category leadership
- Top-quartile KPIs