Alma reposted this
Seeing a trend - International VCs who spent years telling founders "build locally first, then move to the US" are now setting up offices here themselves. Founders are expected to be in here from day zero. The shift is real. And it's creating a new challenge for international founders. Before, you were advised to raise a preseed/seed round from your home country, build some traction, then move to the US. Now? The expectation is you're here earlier. Which means navigating US immigration sooner. I had a founder from India tell me last week: "My lead investor wants me in SF ASAP. But I don't even know what visa I qualify for." Some founders are using conferences like SaaStr to test the waters and start building relationships before making the full move. Others are exploring the O-1A visa earlier in their journey. The key is having a plan before you need one. If you're an international founder building for the US market, don't wait until the last minute to figure out your immigration options. That's one thing that can delay everything else - from GTM to closing contracts. If you're cusrious about options like O-1, H-1B, etc. - feel free to get in touch with Alma.
This is such an important point, Aizada Marat. I have noticed this shift as well. There is clearly an expectation to be present in the US from day zero changes the entire fundraising and immigration timeline. It’s encouraging to see more conversations around planning immigration early, especially for founders who might not have immediate access to legal expertise. Thank you for highlighting this and for the work Alma is doing in this space👍👏
It's crucial for international founders to strategize early on about US immigration options to ensure success in the market.
Testing the waters is a good idea
Founder & CEO at twentyAI | Co-Founder & CEO In2America
2wHi Aizada, would love to chat and see if we can collaborate. We’ve built www.In2America.com to help international founders navigate landing and getting access to crucial services like healthcare, building a competitive EVP, compliant employment and provide founder support for the mundane stuff no one else helps with like getting your bank account set up and a cell phone. Let me know if you’d be open to chat.