I don't think it's as much about pedigree (school especially) as it is what you're leaving on the table to do the startup. It's a strong signaling factor if a

I don't think it's as much about pedigree (school especially) as it is what you're leaving on the table to do the startup. It's a strong signaling factor if a Fortune 500 VP leaves to start something new, versus someone who was an Analyst at a bunch of small companies. The VP is presumably leaving a lot of money on the table for the idea - its skin in the game measurable in opportunity cost. >Talent or ability and willingness to work hard and take responsibility are important. In reading the paper, that seemed to be the other factor in the human capital evaluation. Investors need to feel good about the abilities of the founders.