Angel investors cite the founder as a make-or-break factor in backing startups

[SINGAPORE] If you are a startup founder seeking seed money, please note – three experienced angel investors named the business builder as the key factor when deciding whether or not to put their money in a business.

“The founder is probably the single most important factor in early-stage startups, as we are betting on the people rather than some established business metrics,” Ashley Koh, chief operating officer and co-founder of Voyant Asset Management, told The Business Times.

Noting the unpredictable journey of a startup, where the product could evolve, markets could shift, and the business model could change significantly, she added: “The founders are the only constant. Great founders can pivot a mediocre idea into a success, while weak founders can squander even the most promising opportunity.”