YC’s new guide to raising a Series A
This is exceptionally well-written. And it looks like YC's design has stepped up quite a notch too :)<p>Quick question: how to reconcile these two almost-conflicting views:<p>1) Raising money is the CEO’s job. If you are the CEO, you should plan for it to be your sole, full-time focus.[...] Do what you can to avoid distracting others with fundraising. Co-founders or other executives are typically only brought in to answer specific questions (e.g. CTOs handle technical diligence), and usually only at the full partnership stage.<p>Even in the rare case of co-CEOs, it’s best to have a single point of contact. Investors want to see a clear decision-making process, which generally requires a final decision-maker. (<a href="https://www.ycombinator.com/resources/prepare-your-company" rel="nofollow">https://www.ycombinator.com/resources/prepare-your-company</a>)<p>2) Signing on with a Series A lead is the beginning of a 10 year relationship. If all goes well, that’s how long your board member will have a say in your company. As such, optimize for your board member, not vanity metrics, like valuation. (<a href="https://www.ycombinator.com/resources/how-to-choose-an-investor" rel="nofollow">https://www.ycombinator.com/resources/how-to-choose-an-inves...</a>)<p>Given point 2), shouldn't non-CEO founders also be involved in at least some meetings with investors to weigh in on who they want to have as board members?