[vtail]

In this case, they were requiring 10%(!) of the investment as a kick-back.

Another interesting feature: there are plenty of 'funding advisors' that can help connecting you to a right VC[1] for a fee, typically a few percent of the funding.

Kick-backs are also typical if you are a mid-size company a need to get a commercial loan.

[1] They all claim to have connections to some government-backed VC funds such as government-backed Rusnano or Russian Venture Company.

[bh42222]

Another interesting feature: there are plenty of 'funding advisors' that can help connecting you to a right VC[1] for a fee

Same in the US. I think Massachusetts might have a law against it?

But as another Eastern European currently in the US, I agree with you and know what you are trying to say.

[vtail]

I'm wondering why such market exists in the US. Assuming there is enough VC capital, why would you need an intermediary?

[bh42222]

The demand to pitch or meet a VC is far greater then VCs.