How to evaluate series A startup?

Capital One / Eng
CDR&DSNR

Go to company page Capital One Eng

PRE
IBM
CDR&DSNR
Nov 6, 2019 13 Comments

I’m in the final rounds for a PM role at a series A fintech. They raised 30M+ and seem to have an experienced founder team. What would be some questions I should asking to evaluate the health of the company? In regards to equity, what amount is typically issued and on what terms? What is the expected growth for an employee with every new round of funding?

I appreciate any insights or past experiences!

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TOP 13 Comments
  • New / Mktg
    ratman99

    New Mktg

    ratman99
    B2B or B2C?
    Nov 6, 2019 6
    • Capital One / Eng
      CDR&DSNR

      Go to company page Capital One Eng

      PRE
      IBM
      CDR&DSNR
      OP
      They have almost 500K on waitlist. From what I’ve gathered, the prospective user demographics are diverse/not consistent. They definitely raised the cash with the great track record of the founding members. With the right marketing strategy and brand partnerships this thing will definitely create buzz.
      Nov 6, 2019
    • New / Mktg
      ratman99

      New Mktg

      ratman99
      Let me guess, it's a young demographic they are targeting, bank for kids :)
      Nov 6, 2019
  • Rubrik
    rugdsvkkgx

    Go to company page Rubrik

    rugdsvkkgx
    There is nothing to guage the health of the company since the haven't launched.

    Series A companies tend to give 1% to core employees. 0.5% to experienced but not core. 0.1% to interns. Typical vest is over 4 years with a 1year cliff.

    This also assumes <50 employees total.

    The fact that they've raised 30M is scary. They likely won't give you whats typical for Series A. Also, the company valuation already is too high leaving very little upside for you. Fact that its B2C is even more risky in getting a product-market fit. B2Bs are so much more easier to understand and size.
    Nov 6, 2019 4
  • New / Data
    geoffbenzo

    New Data

    geoffbenzo
    The founders barely understand the health of the company at this point. Are you even in it for the long haul? The questions Id be asking all revolve around how working there for the next two years will be. Understanding how the founders work, what they expect, how they operate under pressure, etc.
    Nov 11, 2019 0