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Today's episode explores three ideas that caught my attention:
① Process compounds: QCA Ventures was founded by engineers, and that mindset still shows up in their playbook, 28-point diligence scoring, and constant process improvement.
② Governance matters: Scott’s lesson from a difficult investment was simple: if QCA can’t be a board observer or sit on the board, they’re not interested.
③ AI is changing angel networks: QCA is already using AI to match deals with member expertise, and Scott is thinking even bigger about how angel groups could learn from decades of shared deal data.

Scott brings a rare operational perspective from leading one of the country’s longest-running angel investor groups. Originally founded as Queen City Angels in 2000, QCA Ventures has spent more than two decades refining its hybrid fund plus network model, due diligence process, member engagement systems, and founder education programs. His experience offers a practical look at what professional angel investing looks like when process, governance, and continuous improvement are treated as core advantages.

During our conversation, he shares:
• A look inside QCA’s Standards and Practices Guide, including how the group uses 28 diligence variables to create more consistent deal evaluation.
• Lessons from a difficult investment that reinforced the importance of board governance, financial verification, and post-check oversight.
• Practical examples of how QCA is using AI to match deals with member expertise and explore new ways for angel groups to learn from their own data.

Connect with Scott:
Scott's LinkedIn
QCA Ventures
QCA Ventures LinkedIn

Connect with Andrew:
Newsletter | X | LinkedIn | Book | Website

Stuff We Reference:
QCA Ventures
Queen City Angels
Angel Capital Association
ACA Summit
QCA Standards and Practices Guide At-A-Glance
QCA Entrepreneur Boot Camp

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All opinions are personal and may not reflect the views of The Diligent Observer. Not investment advice.