
At TechCrunch All Stage: VC Red Flags, Founder Signals, and Pre-Seed Traps – Charles Hudson Reveals Investor Insights
Pre-seed funding is a critical stage for startups, but with limited data available, how do venture capitalists (VCs) truly evaluate potential investments? According to Charles Hudson, managing partner and founder of Precursor Ventures, it’s about much more than just the numbers. He will be sharing invaluable insights at TechCrunch All Stage 2025 on July 15 in Boston, where he will dissect the subtle yet significant signals that VCs look for when deciding whether to invest.
Hudson’s session, titled “All the Ways You Don’t Realize VCs Are Evaluating Your Company at Pre-Seed,” promises to offer a behind-the-scenes look at how investors assess early-stage ventures. He will highlight how founders often underestimate the impact of seemingly minor decisions and actions.
TechCrunch All Stage will feature a range of founders and VCs across various stages of development, making it an excellent opportunity for networking and learning. Register now to save up to $210 before the June 22 deadline.

Hudson emphasizes that a startup’s success hinges not just on the core idea, but on how well the entire operation is managed. Everything from the selection of a co-founder to the execution of the fundraising process sends a signal to potential investors. These signals can either attract or deter investment, making them crucial for early-stage companies.
At TC All Stage, Charles Hudson will delve into the red flags that often scare investors away before a term sheet is even considered. He’ll explore how issues such as mismatched co-founder dynamics can indicate poor hiring practices, and how inadequate outreach can suggest a lack of due diligence. These are the subtle cues that can significantly impact a startup’s ability to secure funding.
With his extensive experience as the founder of Precursor Ventures and a former partner at SoftTech VC, Hudson brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. Precursor Ventures is known for backing startups at their earliest and riskiest stages, highlighting Hudson’s keen ability to identify long-term potential where others might not.
TC All Stage, held on July 15 at SoWa Power Station in Boston and powered by Fidelity Investments, is tailored for startup builders seeking practical, real-world insights from seasoned experts. Attendees will gain valuable strategies and a clearer understanding of what investors are truly looking for. Don’t miss the chance to register now and save up to $210 before June 23.



