According to some VCs, if you aren't in SF you lack real ambition.
Better still, if you move to SF and then move out, you are silently admitting to this lack of real ambition.
...kinda lame take, honestly.
Moving beyond the smugness for a second - it is true the venture in SF functions differently AND that media attention for companies in SF is much higher.
Look at those round sizes in the chart. US Series A rounds raised in 2025 between the Bay, NYC, and everywhere else.
The 90th percentile for the Bay Area fundraises is more than double the "other US cities' figure. More money = more attention = distortion of what the "market" truly is right now.
Maybe obvious, but worth saying regardless - you can be supremely ambitious and not live in San Francisco. You can build an incredible startup and not raise a 90th percentile round. You can create massive impact and not be in the golden AI circle.
Run your own race!
#startups #founders
DISCLOSURE: This communication is on behalf of eShares, Inc. dba Carta, Inc. ("Carta"). This communication is for informational purposes only, and contains general information only. Carta is not, by means of this communication, rendering accounting, business, financial, investment, legal, tax, or other professional advice or services. This publication is not a substitute for such professional advice or services nor should it be used as a basis for any decision or action that may affect your business or interests. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your business or interests, you should consult a qualified professional advisor. This communication is not intended as a recommendation, offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Carta does not assume any liability for reliance on the information provided herein. © 2026 Carta. All rights reserved. Reproduction prohibited.
