Portfolio follow-ons
A follow-on investment signals conviction in a sector and often precedes new investments in adjacent companies. Track follow-ons in your category within the last 6 months.
Partner hires and promotions
New partners often deploy quickly to establish track record. A new B2B partner at a Seed fund is a stronger signal than a generalist partner who hasn't invested in 18 months.
Fund close announcements
Fresh capital means deployment pressure. Funds in year 1–3 of a new vehicle are actively writing checks. Funds in year 5+ may be selective or raising their next fund.
Thesis page changes
When a firm updates their website to emphasize a sector, they're signaling LP and founders where capital is going. Compare current thesis language to archived versions.