Ask HN: Do investors “blacklist” companies that raise with equity crowdfunding?

[api]

I've heard multiple times that VCs and even some angels tend to pass on if not outright blacklist companies that have raised via equity crowdfunding.

The idea is that they see this as a sign that a company could not raise conventionally, has been "over-shopped," etc.

Is this actually true or is it FUD? Not considering equity crowdfunding at the moment, but I've been watching the phenomenon and I'm curious.

Also generally curious if anyone here has done it and how it turned out.

[baccredited]

I've done direct investments in companies and equity crowdfunding via sites like Wefunder. I don't think what you are hearing is true. People (and funds) chase returns and will invest where they can get them.

In the long run, say 5 to 10 yrs, the VCs role will be diminished at least somewhat. Look at Gnosis, who just raised 12MM at a valuation of 300MM, without traditional VC.