Why Updated VC Models Are a Win for Entrepreneurs Good companies are always desirable, but the level of demand right now is unprecedented.

Less than five years ago, VCs were the only game in town for backing a startup (short of a rich relative). This is no longer the case. Crowdfunding platforms, organized "super angels" and quasi incubator-funding programs like Y Combinator and Techstars have created viable alternatives to spending a year pitching your dream to VC after VC.

I find it poetic that my industry, which has long touted the fact that we invest in disruptive companies, is dealing with a bit of disruption ourselves. Our incessant nagging of our portfolio companies to out-innovate is being turned back on us. And for you, dear founder, this means VCs are battling to find and fund you. Below, I've outlined two ways we're going about it.

The talent agency. Andreessen Horowitz was the first to really break the traditional VC mold in 2009. The two Netscape execs modeled their VC after the storied Hollywood talent firm Creative Artists Agency, adding partners with expertise in marketing and public relations to create a full-service operation that can assist a startup in every aspect of its business. Fast-forward five years, and nearly every blue-chip VC has adopted the Andreessen Horowitz model.