Our Investment Process
A straightforward, founder-respectful process designed to move clearly and efficiently.
How we evaluate opportunities
Day One Angels focuses on early-stage AI companies at the pre-seed and seed stages. Our process is designed to give founders clarity quickly while allowing us to build conviction through thoughtful conversations and focused diligence.
We aim to keep communication direct, timelines reasonable, and expectations clear.
The process
1) Initial submission
Founders submit a short overview of their company, along with a deck or supporting materials. We review for alignment with our stage and focus.
2) Initial review
If there’s strong fit, we schedule a conversation to understand the product, team, market, and current traction in greater detail.
3) Founder conversation
We focus on the problem, product insight, execution ability, and why now. This is typically a live discussion rather than a formal pitch.
4) Diligence
Depending on stage, this may include customer conversations, product review, references, and discussion of roadmap or strategy.
5) Decision
We aim to communicate decisions clearly and quickly. If we move forward, we discuss terms and next steps directly with the founders.
6) Partnership
After investing, we stay engaged as a long-term partner and supporter throughout the early growth phase.
Transparency and founder protection
Day One Angels does not charge founders any upfront fees for investment consideration, due diligence, introductions, or capital access.
If anyone claiming to represent Day One Angels requests payment in exchange for funding, please contact us directly through this website.
What we value most
- Strong product insight and clear problem understanding
- Technical or product-driven founders with ownership mindset
- Speed of learning and execution
- Honest communication and long-term thinking
Building an AI company?
If you’re raising a pre-seed or seed round, we’d be happy to learn more.
Submit Your Startup