The Top 12 Questions Founders Should Ask VCs in Fundraising Meetings

or founders, fundraising can feel like navigating a maze. But we’re here to help. Your meetings with VCs are more than just pitches; they're golden opportunities to learn, connect, and find the perfect partner for your startup journey.

So, how do you make the most of these meetings? 

It’s all about asking the right questions. Remember, this isn’t just a chance to see if their firm is a good fit for YOU; it’s also an opportunity to learn from seasoned investors who (hopefully) know what it takes for a startup to succeed. Use this as a learning opportunity!

With that said, we’ve put together the top 12 questions every founder should consider asking VCs during fundraising meetings to turn those conversations into meaningful, value-packed interactions.

1. What Made You Want to Take This Meeting? What Were You Hoping to Learn?

Getting insights into the VC’s motivation for the meeting can help tailor your approach. Ask, “What made you want to take this meeting? What were you hoping to learn?”

Understanding the VC’s interests and what they’re seeking allows you to address their specific concerns and show how your startup meets their criteria. It also demonstrates that you’re attentive to their priorities.

If a VC is particularly interested in your technology’s scalability, focus on showcasing your infrastructure and growth plans to make the conversation more relevant and engaging.

2. What Else Do You Bring to the Table Besides Money?

“Great, you’re interested in investing. What more can you offer?” VCs aren’t just about the cash—they can provide strategic guidance, industry connections, and operational support. Ask, “Can you share how your firm supports its portfolio companies beyond just the funding?”

For instance, a VC with a strong network in your industry can open doors to key partners, potential clients, and even future hires. They might also offer mentorship in areas like scaling operations or refining your go-to-market strategy. By understanding what else they offer, you can better assess how their expertise aligns with your startup’s needs.

3. Can You Give Me Some Success Stories from Your Portfolio?

Hearing real-life examples can give you a clearer picture of what to expect. Ask, “Could you share instances where you’ve significantly impacted a portfolio company’s growth or strategy?”

Success stories reveal how actively involved the VC is and the kind of support they provide. Concrete examples show their actual impact, not just potential benefits.

If a VC shares how they helped a company pivot during a challenging phase, it demonstrates their hands-on approach and problem-solving abilities, reassuring you that they’re proactive partners.

4. How Do You Determine Your Valuation?

Valuation can be a tricky topic, but it’s essential to understand how VCs view your company’s worth. Ask, “What factors do you consider when determining the valuation of a startup?”

This question sheds light on their valuation process and helps you determine if their expectations are realistic and fair. It also prepares you to negotiate better.

If a VC emphasizes market potential and team strength over current revenue, it indicates they’re focused on long-term growth, which might align with your vision if you’re prioritizing scaling.

5. How Do You Handle Follow-On Funding and Future Rounds?

Growth doesn’t stop after the first investment. Ask, “How do you approach follow-on investments, and what role do you play in future funding rounds?”

Understanding their commitment to supporting you in the long run ensures they’re interested in a lasting partnership, not just a one-time investment.

If a VC has a history of participating in multiple funding rounds for their portfolio companies, it demonstrates their confidence in ongoing support, providing stability and sustained growth opportunities.

6. What Are Your Expectations for Board Involvement and Governance?

Board dynamics can significantly influence your company’s direction. Ask what level of involvement they expect as a board member and how they view governance within their portfolio companies.

This helps you gauge how much influence they’ll have on decisions and whether their style aligns with yours. Aligning on governance ensures smooth collaboration.

Some VCs prefer a hands-on approach, while others are more passive, offering advice only when needed. Knowing their preference helps set expectations from the start.

7. How Do You Support Networking and Business Development Opportunities?

A well-connected VC can open many doors. Ask, “How do you support your portfolio companies in networking and business development?”

This helps you see how they can help grow your network, find partners, and secure customers. Leveraging their connections can accelerate your startup’s growth.

A VC might introduce you to potential clients at industry events, facilitate partnerships, or connect you with key influencers. These opportunities can lead to valuable collaborations and increased visibility.

8. What Are Your Expectations for Reporting and Communication?

Clear communication is key to a successful partnership. Ask, “What are your expectations for reporting and updates from your portfolio companies?”

Being aligned on how often you’ll check in and what information you’ll share fosters transparency and trust, preventing misunderstandings.

Some VCs prefer monthly updates via email, while others want quarterly reports and regular meetings. Knowing their preferences helps streamline communication and meet expectations.

9. What Do You See as the Biggest Risks for My Startup, and How Can We Tackle Them Together?

Being proactive about potential challenges shows you’re serious about growth. Ask, “Based on what you’ve seen so far, what are the biggest risks for my startup, and how can we work together to mitigate them?”

This opens a constructive conversation about addressing vulnerabilities and leveraging the VC’s expertise. It demonstrates your willingness to confront challenges. If a VC identifies market competition as a risk, they might offer strategies to differentiate your product or expand into underserved niches.

10. Based on Our Meeting, Do I Seem Like the Kind of Person Who Can Make This Business Succeed?

Understanding the VC’s perception of you as a founder is crucial. Ask, “Based on our meeting, do I seem like the kind of person who can make this business succeed?”

VCs invest in people, not just ideas. This question helps you gauge their confidence in your leadership and vision. Positive feedback can boost your confidence, while constructive criticism can highlight areas for growth.

11. How Does My Team Compare to Other Teams You’ve Invested In?

Understanding how your team compares can provide actionable insights. Ask, “How does my team compare to other teams you’ve invested in?”

VCs have experience assessing different teams, and their perspective can highlight your team’s strengths and areas to improve. If a VC praises your technical expertise but suggests adding sales experience, it gives you a clear direction for future hires.

12. What Are the Main Barriers to Success You See? Any Concerns That Might Lead You Not to Invest?

Being open to discussing potential challenges shows you’re serious about addressing risks. Ask, “What are the main barriers to success you see, and any concerns that might lead you not to invest?”

This initiates a constructive discussion and allows you to leverage the VC’s expertise. If they highlight market competition as a concern, they might also offer strategies for differentiation.

Making the Most of Your VC Meetings

Fundraising meetings shouldn’t feel like one-sided pitches. Instead, think of them as conversations where both parties are assessing whether they’re a good fit for each other. With that in mind, here are a few additional tips to keep in mind:

• Be Prepared to Share Insights: Instead of just selling your idea, share what you know about your business and the market. This sets a collaborative tone and shows that you’re eager to engage in meaningful discussions.
• Balance Talking and Listening: If you have 30 minutes, spend around 8 minutes explaining your business and 22 minutes discussing with the VC. The more you listen, the more you learn—and that knowledge is gold for your startup.
• Stay Open-Minded: VCs have seen it all. Use their feedback to refine your strategy and avoid potential pitfalls. Even if the meeting doesn’t end with an investment, the insights you gain can be incredibly valuable.
• Build Relationships: Think long-term. Even if a VC doesn’t invest this time, building a genuine relationship could pay off in the future. These connections can lead to mentorship opportunities or valuable introductions down the road.

Final Thoughts: Turn Every Meeting into a Win

Fundraising is about more than just securing funds; it’s about finding the right partner who believes in your vision and can help you scale. By asking these top 12 questions, you’re not only evaluating potential investors but also gaining insights that can steer your startup in the right direction.

Remember, the right VC partnership goes beyond capital—it includes mentorship, strategic support, and a shared vision for the future. Approach your meetings with curiosity and a collaborative mindset, and you’ll set the stage for a successful and rewarding journey ahead. These questions help you dig deeper, understand the VCs’ perspectives, and ensure that you’re partnering with investors who truly align with your startup’s goals and values. So, next time you sit down with a VC, bring these questions to the table and turn every meeting into a stepping stone toward success.

Happy fundraising!