The Venture Variety Show Forum’s Olivia O’Sullivan on Platform Trends and Smarter Fundraising
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Jul 31, 2025 Olivia O’Sullivan, Partner and COO at Forum Ventures, delves into the evolving role of platform teams in venture capital. She highlights how founders should approach fundraising as a two-way interview, emphasizing authentic relationship-building with investors. The conversation touches on the transformative impact of AI on startups, allowing them to optimize growth while staying lean. O’Sullivan also discusses how VC firms are leveraging AI for operational efficiency, all while reminding listeners that genuine support relies on human connection and trust.
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Platform Is The Firm’s Leverage Layer
- A platform is a horizontal layer that creates leverage across sourcing, post-investment support, and firm operations.
- It helps the firm return capital and sustain the investment lifecycle.
Show Up Locally And Measure Founder Love
- Show up consistently with local events like monthly coffees to build real relationships and founder advocacy.
- Measure founder experience and fund-through rate as leading indicators of platform success.
Treat Fundraising As A Two-Way Interview
- Ask investors thorough questions during fundraising so you can choose the right long-term partners.
- Do back-channel reference checks with portfolio founders before signing a term sheet.