In the evolving landscape of venture capital, Forum VC has emerged as a distinctive player, reshaping how early-stage startups raise capital. With a bold, founder-first philosophy and a unique approach to funding, Forum VC stands out as a champion of entrepreneurial autonomy, transparency, and efficiency. This article explores the core mission, methodology, and impact of Forum VC in today’s startup ecosystem.

What is Forum VC?

Forum VC is an early-stage venture capital firm that backs high-potential startups through an innovative platform designed to democratize access to capital. Formerly known as Hustle Fund's Angel Squad, Forum VC spun out to operate as its own entity with a clear vision: make venture capital more founder-friendly and accessible.

Unlike traditional VC firms that rely on a small group of partners to make funding decisions, Forum VC operates a community-driven model. It brings together a large and growing network of operators, founders, and angel investors who collaboratively evaluate deals and support the companies they back. This model not only increases deal transparency but also reduces friction in the funding process.

A Founder-First Approach

At the heart of Forum VC is a commitment to empowering founders. In a landscape where startup founders often feel at the mercy of opaque and slow-moving investors, Forum VC offers a refreshing alternative.

Some of the key features of its approach include:

• Speed and transparency: Startups applying to Forum VC receive quick decisions, with clear communication about the process. This allows founders to focus on building rather than navigating the often time-consuming fundraising maze.
  
  
  
  


• Syndicated capital: Forum VC often raises capital through syndicates—groups of smaller investors who collectively fund deals. This approach diversifies the cap table and brings in a broader base of supporters.
  
  
  
  


• Community support: Beyond the check, Forum VC’s network provides operational, strategic, and hiring support to portfolio companies, ensuring that founders get value beyond just money.
  
  
  
  

How Forum VC Works

Forum VC's platform operates with a strong emphasis on community-led diligence and investment. Here’s how the process typically works:

1. Deal Sourcing: Founders submit their startups through Forum VC’s platform. A dedicated team and community members review applications.
   
   
   
   


2. Due Diligence: Selected deals go through a rapid but rigorous diligence process involving experienced operators and investors.
   
   
   
   


3. Syndication: If approved, Forum VC structures a deal and offers it to its network of accredited investors who can choose to participate.
   
   
   
   


4. Post-Investment Support: Startups receive access to a vast community that can help with everything from go-to-market strategy to hiring and fundraising.
   
   
   
   

This model provides a win-win for both sides: founders receive capital and support quickly, while investors get access to vetted opportunities in high-growth sectors.

The Impact of Forum VC

Forum VC’s innovative approach is already making waves in the early-stage funding world. It has backed hundreds of startups across various sectors, including fintech, SaaS, healthtech, and consumer products. Notable companies in its portfolio have gone on to raise significant follow-on funding from top-tier firms.

Its community-centric structure is also creating a new generation of angel investors, many of whom are operators and entrepreneurs themselves. By giving them access to deals and education, Forum VC is broadening the base of people who can participate in venture capital—an industry that has traditionally been closed and exclusive.

Why Forum VC Matters

In an era where speed, access, and alignment are more critical than ever, Forum VC offers a compelling alternative to traditional venture capital. Its commitment to fairness, transparency, and founder empowerment reflects a broader shift in startup financing—one that prioritizes relationships over hierarchy and access over exclusivity.

For founders looking for a smarter, faster, and more collaborative way to raise early-stage capital, Forum VC is more than just a fund—it’s a movement.