What Venture Capitalists Look for Before They Invest in Founders

In this episode, Zakiya Alta Lee-Hill delves into her journey in venture capital and the intricacies of Virginia's startup ecosystem. She discusses Ideal Fund Partners' investment strategies and the significance of founder character and early VC relationships. Zakiya emphasizes the value of consistent communication, detailed financial reporting, and understanding business stages. The conversation extends to handling founder rejections, follow-on funding challenges, and the role of AI strategies in modern businesses. Zakiya shares personal favorites, from Virginia's culinary delights to roller coasters and karaoke, wrapping up with reflections on future goals and initiatives.