I worked at a VC funded startup in my late 20's called b2bstreet.com . The investors were terrified that we were trying to steal their money, so they called to harass the staff daily....making sure we were not stealing. This effected our ability to perform required duties, hence the investors sabotaged the integrity of the company due to unfounded fears.

I understood I didn't want VC capital for Downtube, after seeing the negative effects on b2bstreet. I was offered money from so many people in our early years....I refused all of it. 

Now I am looking at making folding lightweight ebikes. Two weeks ago I was contacted by a VC firm and I actually scheduled a meeting ( that was a big deal for me ). The meeting didn't generate much interest, because they wanted guarantees from Downtube, and I wanted a new venture independent from Downtube. I finally figured out what I want with ebike funding. Here we go:

1. It would need to be a completely separate corporation....no connection to the Downtube.

2. The Downtube brand can be licensed to the ebike brand.

3. I want to have final say in design & specs of all ebikes.

4. I want someone else running it. I would prefer to be a minority partner with no day to day business function. 

Does anyone know an investor that can give me what I want? Money ( equity ) is not a big deal for me, so I don't see that as a risk. I just want to play with the bikes & ebikes.

I plan on launching a light ( under 40 lbs ) full suspension ebike next year. I would prefer a partnership that will allow us to approach the market in a more aggressive manner.