What questions should I ask when I talk to venture capitalists and investors?

Ultimately you need to find out if you and them are a good fit. Think of it like dating - ask many questions.

Firstly, there is investment-fit:

• Investment stage (seed / series A / etc)
  
• Sector / vertical (A.I, Agriculture, Manufacturing, etc.)
• Traction - Do you have the numbers they're looking for
• Returns horizon - how soon do they need to exit / cash out? Can you reach there in time?

Secondly is the culture-fit:

• Do you like them / their team / their values
• Do they like you / your team / your culture