# Tips from a Rising VC on Evaluating Startups Sam Collett from Promus Ventures shares how he picks the next big tech company. - **Source:** [Inc.com](https://brifing.si/source/07cb1004-a796-47d7-9801-fc5c7388471d) - **Published:** 2026-07-13 - **Topic:** [Finance](https://brifing.si/c/finance) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/27089532-c828-4d0c-9c50-dcb1cde4cbdd ## Introduction Sam Collett, partner at Promus Ventures, focuses on factors that determine a startup's long-term success when making investment decisions. He particularly analyzes whether companies have a 'defensible moat.' This concept refers to a startup's ability to maintain a sustainable competitive edge against rivals. ## Technology Depth Collett emphasizes that tech-based startups must possess unique and hard-to-replicate technology. Elements like patents, algorithms, or proprietary software solutions can ensure a company's longevity in the market. Such deep technological capabilities are a critical criterion for investors. ## Market Dynamics The size and dynamics of a startup's target market also play a significant role in Collett's evaluation process. The market's growth potential and how the startup positions itself within it directly influence investment decisions. Collett prefers narrow but rapidly growing niche markets. ## Team Quality The experience and cohesion of a startup's founding team are another critical factor for Collett. The team members' past successes, industry knowledge, and problem-solving skills provide confidence that the company can overcome challenges. Collett says, 'Without the right team, even the right idea isn’t enough.' ## Scalability Collett notes that startups he considers investing in must have a scalable business model. The company's product or service must be able to grow in response to increasing demand while controlling costs. This ensures the startup's long-term profitability and sustainability. ## Conclusion Sam Collett's approach measures not only a startup's short-term success but also its long-term competitive strength. Companies with defensible moats offer investors lower risk and higher return potential. This strategy plays a key role in Promus Ventures' success. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.inc.com/brian-contreras/venture-capital-vc-startup-defensible-moat-private-equity/91372761 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._