This is one of the most important questions a founder can ask and one that too many only think about after the term sheet. The truth is, control isn't just about shares or board seats, it’s about leverage. And leverage comes from how you structure your early rounds, the type of capital you accept, and how clearly you define your long-term strategy before raising. Here’s how I usually frame it with founders I advise: Giving up equity isn’t the enemy — losing optionality is. You don’t need 51% of shares to maintain control, but you do need protective provisions and board terms that give you real decision-making power. Early dilution is survivable if the money accelerates growth — but it becomes a trap if your raise is poorly timed or mismatched with investor expectations. I’ve worked with founders through pre-seed to Series B, helped them negotiate investor-friendly terms without losing their grip on vision or direction, and tapped into a strong investor network across the US and UK when the timing was right. If you’re approaching a raise and want to protect your leverage — not just now, but 2–3 rounds ahead — let’s set up a quick complimentary call. Happy to walk you through smart dilution strategy and what “control” really looks like when the stakes get high.

Sounds like great timing. I may be able to help. I work with early- and growth-stage founders on capital strategy, investor positioning, and targeted introductions. I also have access to a strong network of active VCs and capital partners across the US and UK, including firms in SF, NY, Austin, and emerging hubs like Raleigh-Durham. Beyond intros, I can also help refine your narrative for US-based investors — especially if you’re navigating differences in pitch style, traction expectations, or positioning between the UK and US ecosystems. If the meetings are already in motion, optimizing the framing can make a noticeable difference in how they land. If you’re serious about maximizing your time in the US, I’d be happy to discuss what warm introductions and guidance I can offer. Let’s book a quick complimentary call to see if there’s a good fit. I’ll walk you through how I work and whether my investor network aligns with your raise.

You’re on to something powerful. AI content verification isn’t just an innovation — it’s a critical missing layer in today’s digital trust landscape. You’ve already validated the need in media, education, and policy, which means you’re not chasing a trend — you’re solving a real, growing problem. At this stage, attracting the right co-founders and collaborators is less about outreach volume and more about signal strength. Here’s what I’ve seen work consistently: Tell a future people already feel coming. The right co-founder doesn’t need to be convinced — they need to feel like they’re late to the opportunity. Frame your idea as a piece of inevitable infrastructure in the AI age. Package your validation into a credibility deck. A sharp one-pager or short deck that distills pain points, real-world demand, and strategic angles becomes your strongest asset — especially for attracting product minds or strategic partners. Start with collaboration, not commitment. Before offering titles or equity, invite strategic thinkers into 1–2 roadmap sessions. How they think in real time tells you more than any resume. This protects your equity and your momentum. Use timing as leverage. Content trust isn’t a “someday” issue — it’s right now. Frame the opportunity as urgent and rising. People move fast when they know the moment won’t wait. I’ve helped early-stage founders like you turn clarity into traction — sharpening the message, structuring the ask, and building aligned teams and partners around complex ideas. If you’re ready to attract the right people and accelerate execution, let’s book a quick call. I’ll help you position this so it lands with serious operators.