While investing last in a round is less risky, Outside VC's Ethan Austin favors being the first investor. This 'first believer' position allows the firm to have a more significant impact on the company's direction and development, which he finds more rewarding.
When a founder questioned her availability at a large firm like Andreessen Horowitz, Ariana Simpson pointed to her actions. By taking a pitch call just three days after giving birth, she offered a powerful, real-world demonstration of her commitment and accessibility to founders.
Redpoint intentionally structures its firm—from hiring to time management—to cultivate deep networks within specific talent ecosystems. This strategic approach enables them to quickly vet early-stage deals with high-fidelity feedback from trusted sources, speeding up their decision-making process.