VC backing can unlock some doors, but it doesn't replace the trust artifact question — if anything it raises the bar, because diligence now includes your investor's reputation risk too. Sole-founder + regulated fintech is doable. But the funding conversation usually goes easier once you already have one credible proof point — a pilot, an LOI, even a compliance advisor with a recognizable name attached. If you don't have that yet, I'd chase the proof point before the round — it makes both the VC and the partner conversation shorter. Are you leaning toward raising now, or locking in one pilot/LOI first and using that as leverage?