4 key traits this Silicon Valley VC looks for in founders

Every year, millions of businesses are created around the world. In order for these big ideas to turn into successful startups, most of them will inevitably come up against the challenges of fundraising. 

While there is no magic formula, there are variables that founders can hone in on when engaging with potential investors. TNW sat down with San Francisco-based VC Plug and Play early-stage investor Letizia Royo-Villanova during the Red Bull Basement global final in Tokyo to get her insights. 

The one thing that really needs to stand out, according to Royo-Villanova, is the drive and authenticity of the founder. “Maybe they’ve experienced a problem, or know someone that has experienced that problem, and so they really want to solve it. Not because of making money — of course that’s a plus — but because they actually care about solving that problem.”

In addition to said passion, the ability to ...