Secrets of Sand Hill Road: Venture Capital and How to Get It

Venture Capital and How to Get It unpacks what every founder wishes they knew before their first pitch meeting.

Scott Kupor

8 Key Insights

About This Book

Step inside the enigmatic world of venture capital, where billion-dollar startups are built—or broken—behind closed doors. By mastering the real motivations and decision frameworks of investors, you’ll transform from a nervous outsider to a confident, well-armed negotiator, ready to drive your vision forward. Whether you’re forming your first startup, scaling through tough markets, or facing high-stakes negotiations, each insight acts as a toolkit for smarter decisions, stronger partnerships, and long-term growth. This journey doesn’t just demystify VC—it empowers you to break through hidden barriers, maximize opportunity, and build alliances that can change your life and the world.

About the Author

Scott Kupor is a seasoned venture capital expert with firsthand experience on both sides of the startup journey. As the long-time managing partner at Andreessen Horowitz, one of Silicon Valley’s most influential VC firms, he’s shaped the trajectories of tech giants like Airbnb, Pinterest, and GitHub. Previously, Scott built businesses from inside the trenches, leading teams at LoudCloud and Opsware from scrappy startups to successful exits. Renowned for his candid, approachable style, Scott is a dedicated mentor, avid country music fan, and advocate for democratizing access to entrepreneurship.

Biggest Takeaway

You will sharpen your skills in evaluating funding options, building strong founding teams, and pitching ideas that resonate. By understanding the deeper incentives of VCs, you can protect your vision, negotiate smarter deals, and avoid common traps that derail many founders. You’ll also learn how to select partners with aligned interests, manage board relationships, and navigate tough financial moments while keeping control over your company’s future. The tools and mindsets you adopt will accelerate your entrepreneurial journey, making you a more resilient, informed, and effective leader.