Investor References: How to Vet Before You Sign The reference calls you make before signing a term sheet matter more than the ones during diligence. Here's who to call and what to ask. You will spend the next 5-10 years with your lead investor. The reference calls before signing are your last chance to learn what they're actually like — not their pitch, but their behavior when things get hard. Most founders skip this step. Don't. Read the full guide on Startup Fundraising · Find investors · Browse the Library Related guides Angel Investors for Startups How to Raise from Angel Investors Angel Investor vs Venture Capital: Which to Raise From (2026) Customer References: The Diligence Signal Investors Trust Most How to Find a Lead Investor How to Write an Investor Update Find Investors Cold Email to Investors That Actually Gets Replies
