Everything on Founder Evaluation

Great founders are defined by high IQ, courage (embracing hardship), and a primal drive to build. Investors should back exceptional teams regardless of business plan perfection and avoid "diamonds in the rough," which typically possess structural or behavioral flaws.

Impact: Prioritizing founder psychology and capability over market timing or polished decks will lead to better early-stage investment outcomes and higher resilience in portfolio companies.

— from Andreessen on VC Psychology, AI Economics, and Founder Evaluation · a16z Podcast· Mar 30, 2026