As soon as a VC invests, the follow calculation begins: Can the company grow fast enough, and accomplish enough, before running out of money, to raise the Next Round at >=2x the price just paid.
There is a certain amount of runway, a period of time that money lasts, and a “Zero Cash Date.” Knowing and sharing this date is crucial.
If the criteria for raising the next round at a higher valuation may not be met, stress builds up for the startup and investors.
Venture capital can be great for startups, but it is expensive capital, especially in the early days.