What Investors Really Want From AI Founders

Igor Taber has sat on both sides of the table: first as a VC at Intel Capital, then as an operator at high-growth AI startup DataRobot. Now, as co-founder of Cortical Ventures, he’s backing the next generation of AI-first startups. In this episode, Igor shares how his operating experience reshaped his investment lens, what most VCs still miss about early-stage execution, and how founders can break through the AI noise to build something that actually lasts. We also get into: What it really takes to build conviction at the seed stage How Cortical Ventures defines “defensibility” in AI The questions every founder should ask an investor (but usually doesn’t) Why your biggest advantage may not be your model — it’s your momentum If you’re building in AI, fundraising, or trying to turn early traction into a long-term advantage, download this episode. RUNTIME: 39:52 EPISODE BREAKDOWN (1:19) Igor: My investor-operator-investor path was “ a really interesting progression.” (3:33) Previously, a lot of his opinions were rooted in the “VC echo chamber.” (6:56) “ You just try to do your best to be a good partner and be helpful.” (7:43) Why he and co-founder Jeremy Achin started Cortico. (13:39) What makes an early-stage AI team stand out? (17:15) When it comes to solo vs. team, “ we haven't seen any like material difference in outcome.” (18:56) “ I think the biggest company on LinkedIn is called ‘Stealth.’” (22:17) Why TAM isn’t a major consideration when evaluating new opportunities. (24:18) His framework for evaluating and validating seed-stage startups. (26:03) The biggest red flags in founder discovery meetings. (28:21) Top mistakes founders make in the first year after closing a seed round. (33:16) How Cortical advises AI founders to build more resilient companies. (35:55) A few things to keep in mind before quitting a secure job to launch a startup. (38:07) How to make yourself more investible in 2025. LINKS Igor Tabor Jeremy Achin Cortical Ventures SUBSCRIBE 📥 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/7249143254363856897/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fundbuildscale/   Thanks for listening!   – Walter.