I sell software for a living to the venture capital sector. I meet many people regularly. Many of the successful firms seeking alpha returns have kept relationships above all.
A few founder friends reach out for background checks about the organization from which they are seeking funding. My advice: go to the ones who will stick with you thick and thin. Speak to other founders they have invested in.
A founder can come to an investor in multiple avatars. They might have failed now, but can come back again with a bigger vision and, greater product market fit. They can be successful angel investors sharing deals or co-investors.
The alpha return comes from a relationship as the venture capital industry is a decade-long journey.