Venture & Growth
How to Evaluate an AI Startup: A Two-Part Framework for Finding Defensible Value Beyond the Hype
Venture investors should use a two-part framework to evaluate AI startups, first confirming foundational business viability and then assessing AI-specific defensibility through proprietary data, unique workflows, or domain expertise. This dual-lens approach helps distinguish genuine value from hype and justify premium valuations.
Rafael Montoya·November 9, 2026
