Two New Metrics that Might Keep Your Startup Alive in 2026
I’m skeptical of many startup “rules.” But trusting in exceptional founders has rarely led me too far astray.
I’m skeptical of many startup “rules.” But trusting in exceptional founders has rarely led me too far astray.
Venturing in Public – 3/20/25
In looking at the portfolio recently, I was surprised to see that our DTC portfolio – ranging from baby toys to cat food, furniture, skin care, and more – will do over a billion dollars in sales this year. A billion in sales!
Think of each funding round as part of an ongoing strategy—a multi-stage game, where every decision has ripple effects on the long-term trajectory.
The next year will be challenging for startups. Promising companies will struggle. Many will fail. The only consolation is that the “era of indifferent capital” is coming to a close — may it never return.
Even for strong startups, fundraising is a marathon that requires near constant attention for 8–12 weeks. The process is punishing, and riskier than you might imagine. You need to prep for it as seriously as you would a race.