Buddy, this really is a very insightful and yet an enjoyable piece of work. Hope some VCs are listening.

To be true, VCs sometimes prove to be VC(ou)s for many entrepreneurs.

Today, as we see a big lot of emerging VCs, angel funding guys and, seed funding guys; all of whom were once successful entrepreneurs. They understood the game of entrepreneurship well and took on the holy mission of helping out other budding entrepreneurs. As it should be, they all have different patterns of selecting, shortlisting and funding entrepreneurs.

However, one thing they often forget is that every startup cannot be measured by the same parameters, even if they all belonged to the same domain. Using your kind of metaphors, I’d say, a bonsai of mango can’t and shouldn’t be slotted together with that of another variety of mango; not to talk about comparing it with apple. A Langda Mango will have almost everything different from an Alphonso variety, except for the name and species – requirement, strength to taste (of success). On the contrary, the VCs mistake at the time of their evaluation. It is at this time that the startups selected to be funded often get carried away to conform to the VCs’ criteria than sticking to their original vision at the onset.

According to me, the relationship between the entrepreneur and the VC should be more like a wife and husband than a father and child. This means not just holding hand like a father and making sure that the child (company) grows, even if the father’s wishes and vision sometimes overrule the kids’ aspirations. It has to be complimentary to each other, in spite of all sorts of differences.

I can’t believe that you are writing such crap! Stop grand standing and start reducing that burn.

- Rahul

I liked the article.

In your future blogs can you share your thoughts on answering the following questions:
What is the right time to approach a VC ?

How does one value the company and how much stake should be given to the VC? Specially when the business model is new .

Some tips on the business plan and presentation ( elevator pitch) made to the VC.