Syndicates

Definition

Groups of angel investors or VCs pooling resources to make a larger investment than they could individually, because apparently teamwork makes the dream work.

Example Usage

We raised our seed round through three investor syndicates totaling $1.5M.

Origin

General business terminology adapted for venture investing

Fun Fact

AngelList (now Wellfound) popularized structured investment syndicates starting in 2012

Source: Contemporary venture capital terminology

Related Terms

Intermediate

Deep Tech

Startups built on fundamental scientific breakthroughs rather than clever software—the kind of company that requires physics PhDs and takes 10 years to become profitable, beloved by investors who want long-term moonshots.

🚀 Startup / VC

Beginner

Series B

The second institutional round where your company proves Series A wasn't a fluke—investors pony up $15M-$50M hoping you've figured out unit economics.

🚀 Startup / VC

Intermediate

extension round

Additional capital raised on the same terms as the previous round (like a Series A-1) rather than progressing to the next stage, buying time without the stigma of a flat or down round. The startup equivalent of taking an incomplete rather than failing the course.

🚀 Startup / VC

Advanced

claw-back

A provision allowing limited partners to reclaim previously distributed carried interest from GPs if later losses reduce overall fund returns. The nightmare scenario keeping fund managers up at night.

🚀 Startup / VC

Intermediate

scout program

A system where VCs give small pools of capital to well-connected individuals to make investments on the firm's behalf. A brilliant way to outsource deal flow while paying in equity instead of salary.

🚀 Startup / VC

Advanced

409A valuation

An IRS-mandated appraisal of your company's common stock price, required so employees don't accidentally commit tax fraud when exercising options. It's always mysteriously lower than what you tell investors your company is worth.

🚀 Startup / VC

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