I recently talked to founders building an AI start-up. They shared with me that they’re raising capital, and I asked the normal questions about metrics, runway, etc. I learned they have a significant amount of capital in the bank from their raise less than 12 months ago. This made me ask, why are you raising again if you have ample runway for executing your strategy?

Their response was simple. They’re getting interest from VC firms looking to invest in AI start-ups, and they figured they should strike while the iron is hot.

It’s so interesting to hear how different the stories of founders raising in the market right now are. Some are grinding it out to get an opportunity to pitch an investor, while others are being sought out by investors. I’m really curious to see which companies successfully complete their fundraising rounds (i.e., have money in the bank) before the end of the year.