I sat down with Allison Baum Gates to talk about what it really takes to win in today’s venture-backed WorkTech market. From launching Semper Virens' accelerator to raising $177 million across two funds, Allison shares candid lessons, real market dynamics, and founder truths VCs rarely admit. In this episode we look at venture capital, WorkTech, AI startups, HR Tech, startup funding, founder market fit, and the future of work. These are the forces shaping how emerging companies raise capital, go to market, and build competitive advantage in the most complex B2B environments today. Key Takeaways Founder market fit and self-awareness are crucial differentiators for success in early-stage WorkTech, HR Tech, and AI ventures. The Semper Virens accelerator focuses on go-to-market readiness and real-world partnerships—not pitch decks. Distribution strategy through ecosystems like health plans, payroll providers, and HR platforms is now critical for startup scale. The $177 million in new funding from Semper Virens is backing startups solving real problems in health, wealth, and work. Raising venture capital is not merit-based—it’s a structured game that requires narrative, strategy, and process mastery. AI-native positioning and a well-run fundraising process are now separating the haves from the have-nots in venture outcomes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices