Not a CEO? No Problem. We Got You.
How We Got O-1A Approved for a COO with 29 Investors and 5 Criteria: The complete petition breakdown showing COOs can win O-1A with the right strategy
Table of Content
The Challenge
When our client came to us, he had a common concern: "I'm the COO, not the CEO. Can I still qualify for O-1A?"
He was the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of an AI-powered fintech startup that had raised millions from 29+ investors, achieved triple-digit month-over-month growth, and been accepted into the world's most prestigious accelerator. But as the operational leader rather than the public-facing CEO, he worried his contributions might be seen as less "extraordinary."
The answer was clear: operational excellence IS extraordinary ability. And his approved petition proves it.
Client Profile
Field | Financial Technology (Fintech) / Artificial Intelligence |
Role | Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer |
Education | BS in Computer Engineering & Computer Sciences, Top University |
Company Stage | Seed-funded, 8-figure valuation, 29+ investors |
Result | O-1A Approved |
Criteria Documented | 5 out of 8 |
The Strategy: Proving COO-Level Extraordinary Ability
Many co-founders assume the CEO gets the visa and the COO supports the application. That's wrong. A COO who drives operations, scaling, and execution is just as critical - and just as capable of demonstrating extraordinary ability.
We built this case around what makes operational leaders extraordinary: the ability to scale, execute, attract capital, and earn recognition from the industry's most selective gatekeepers.
We documented 5 strong criteria to build an undeniable case.
Criterion 1: Membership in Associations Requiring Outstanding Achievements
The Challenge: Proving that memberships require "outstanding achievements" - not just an application fee.
The Solution: Two of the most selective organizations in tech, both with documented acceptance rates and letters from leadership.
Organization | Acceptance Rate | Evidence Provided |
|---|---|---|
Top Startup Accelerator | Less than 2% | Letter from CEO confirming membership "granted to individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary ability and significant achievements" |
Prestigious Tech Council | Invitation-only | Welcome email + member profile documenting C-suite requirement and achievement-based selection |
Key insight: The accelerator's CEO letter explicitly used the phrase "extraordinary ability" - the exact legal standard for O-1A. This wasn't coincidental; we requested language that would resonate with USCIS adjudicators.
Criterion 2: Published Material About the Beneficiary
The Challenge: Getting media coverage that specifically names and features the COO, not just the company or the CEO.
The Solution: We identified and documented multiple publications that specifically highlighted our client's credentials, background, and contributions.
Publication | Reach/Credibility | How Client Was Featured |
|---|---|---|
Top Accelerator's News Platform | 3.3M+ monthly organic visits | Launch announcement featuring COO's credentials, education, and leadership roles |
Startup Trade Publication | Major entrepreneurship outlet | Article highlighting COO's technical background and contribution to company's growth |
Accelerator Company Profile | Official accelerator database | Comprehensive profile detailing COO's qualifications and role |
Fintech Trade Publication | Industry-specific coverage | Feature emphasizing COO's "vital contribution to the fintech innovation" |
Strategic note: We supplemented articles with analytics data (Semrush reports) proving the publications' reach and credibility. This preempts any USCIS question about whether a publication qualifies as "major."
Criterion 3: Judging the Work of Others
The Challenge: Demonstrating that industry experts seek out your judgment on cutting-edge work.
The Solution: This was the strongest criterion in the case. Our client was invited to judge at the world's most prestigious accelerator program itself - alongside its CEO and other notable founders.
Judging Role | Significance | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
Top Accelerator Program Judge | Selected to evaluate thousands of startup applications alongside the accelerator's CEO and founders of billion-dollar companies | Confirmation letter from CEO |
AI Hackathon at Top Engineering College | Formal invitation citing "expertise in artificial intelligence" as selection basis | Invitation email + LinkedIn announcement |
AI Competition at Major University | Evaluated AI agents deployed to platform with 1.8M+ user waitlist; backed by major VC fund | Event documentation |
Why this was powerful: The accelerator's CEO letter stated our client was selected based on "expertise in artificial intelligence, proven fundraising success, active contributions to the community, and leadership of a distinguished business." It also noted he judged alongside the CEO himself and founders of companies worth billions.
Criterion 4: Original Contributions of Major Significance
The Challenge: Proving a COO's contributions are "original" and of "major significance" - not just execution of someone else's vision.
The Solution: We documented the co-founding of an innovative company addressing a massive market gap, validated by prestigious investors and measurable growth metrics.
The Innovation
Problem Addressed | Tens of billions in unclaimed consumer funds annually |
Solution Created | AI-powered platform that automatically scans receipts, identifies refund opportunities, and claims funds through multiple channels |
Market Impact | 233% month-over-month growth; thousands recovered for consumers |
Validation | Acceptance into world's top accelerator (less than 2% acceptance rate) |
Evidence of Major Significance
Top accelerator membership
Letter from CEO confirming the founding team demonstrated "extraordinary ability and significant achievements"
Company profile
Featured on accelerator's platform among notable startups, highlighting the COO's specific qualifications
Prior track record
National hackathon winner, successful business builder, engineering team leader - establishing a pattern of innovation
Criterion 5: Critical Role in Distinguished Organization
The Challenge: Proving both that the organization is "distinguished" AND that the COO role is "critical" - not just supporting.
The Solution: Extensive documentation of investor backing (proving distinguished reputation) combined with board resolution and operational evidence (proving critical role).
Distinguished Reputation: Investor Validation
Evidence | Details |
|---|---|
Total Investors | 29+ venture capital firms, family offices, and accredited investors |
Total Raised | Millions in funding |
Valuation | 8-figure post-money valuation |
Notable Investors | Top accelerator + multiple well-known VC firms |
Critical Role: Documentation
Board Resolution: Unanimous written consent appointing client as COO and Secretary
29 SAFE Agreements: Each investment document showing company's credibility and the COO's role in attracting capital
Trade Publication Quote: "[COO's] background in computer engineering and product development, reinforcing his vital contribution to the fintech innovation"
Strategic approach: We included ALL 29 SAFE agreements as exhibits. This wasn't overkill - it demonstrated the depth of due diligence sophisticated investors conducted on the company and its leadership team.
Key Lessons for COOs and Co-Founders Pursuing O-1A
1. COOs Can Absolutely Qualify
The O-1A standard is "extraordinary ability" - not "CEO title." A COO who drives operations, scaling, and execution at a high-growth startup has a strong case if properly documented.
2. Judging Your Own Accelerator Is Powerful Evidence
Being invited back to judge at the accelerator that accepted you demonstrates you've become a peer, not just a participant. This is recognition at the highest level.
3. Document Every Investor
29 SAFE agreements might seem excessive, but each one represents a sophisticated investor who conducted due diligence on the company and its leadership. That's 29 independent validations of distinguished reputation.
4. Get Media That Names You Specifically
"The company raised funding" doesn't help your O-1A case. "The COO, who has a background in computer engineering and won a national hackathon, was vital to the innovation" does. Ensure press coverage names you and your contributions.
5. Leverage Your Pre-Startup Track Record
This client's national hackathon win, previous engineering leadership, and successful side business were all relevant. Extraordinary ability isn't just about your current role - it's about a pattern of achievement.
Could Your Profile Support an O-1A?
If you're a COO, co-founder, or operational leader wondering whether your achievements qualify, consider:
Has your company raised funding from recognized investors or accelerators?
Have you been accepted into selective programs or organizations?
Have you judged competitions, evaluated applications, or mentored at accelerators?
Has your work been covered in media - with your name and contributions mentioned?
Do you have a track record of achievements before your current role (hackathon wins, previous ventures, etc.)?
If you answered yes to three or more of these questions, you likely have a stronger case than you think - regardless of whether you're CEO or COO.
Find Out Which Visa Is Right for You
Not sure if O-1A is your best path - or if EB-1A, EB-2 NIW, or another option fits better?
Our free evaluation takes 5 minutes and gives you a clear answer.
No lawyers. No jargon. Just a clear recommendation based on your profile.
This case study is based on an actual approved O-1A petition.
Details are shared with client permission for educational purposes.
The Challenge
When our client came to us, he had a common concern: "I'm the COO, not the CEO. Can I still qualify for O-1A?"
He was the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of an AI-powered fintech startup that had raised millions from 29+ investors, achieved triple-digit month-over-month growth, and been accepted into the world's most prestigious accelerator. But as the operational leader rather than the public-facing CEO, he worried his contributions might be seen as less "extraordinary."
The answer was clear: operational excellence IS extraordinary ability. And his approved petition proves it.
Client Profile
Field | Financial Technology (Fintech) / Artificial Intelligence |
Role | Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer |
Education | BS in Computer Engineering & Computer Sciences, Top University |
Company Stage | Seed-funded, 8-figure valuation, 29+ investors |
Result | O-1A Approved |
Criteria Documented | 5 out of 8 |
The Strategy: Proving COO-Level Extraordinary Ability
Many co-founders assume the CEO gets the visa and the COO supports the application. That's wrong. A COO who drives operations, scaling, and execution is just as critical - and just as capable of demonstrating extraordinary ability.
We built this case around what makes operational leaders extraordinary: the ability to scale, execute, attract capital, and earn recognition from the industry's most selective gatekeepers.
We documented 5 strong criteria to build an undeniable case.
Criterion 1: Membership in Associations Requiring Outstanding Achievements
The Challenge: Proving that memberships require "outstanding achievements" - not just an application fee.
The Solution: Two of the most selective organizations in tech, both with documented acceptance rates and letters from leadership.
Organization | Acceptance Rate | Evidence Provided |
|---|---|---|
Top Startup Accelerator | Less than 2% | Letter from CEO confirming membership "granted to individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary ability and significant achievements" |
Prestigious Tech Council | Invitation-only | Welcome email + member profile documenting C-suite requirement and achievement-based selection |
Key insight: The accelerator's CEO letter explicitly used the phrase "extraordinary ability" - the exact legal standard for O-1A. This wasn't coincidental; we requested language that would resonate with USCIS adjudicators.
Criterion 2: Published Material About the Beneficiary
The Challenge: Getting media coverage that specifically names and features the COO, not just the company or the CEO.
The Solution: We identified and documented multiple publications that specifically highlighted our client's credentials, background, and contributions.
Publication | Reach/Credibility | How Client Was Featured |
|---|---|---|
Top Accelerator's News Platform | 3.3M+ monthly organic visits | Launch announcement featuring COO's credentials, education, and leadership roles |
Startup Trade Publication | Major entrepreneurship outlet | Article highlighting COO's technical background and contribution to company's growth |
Accelerator Company Profile | Official accelerator database | Comprehensive profile detailing COO's qualifications and role |
Fintech Trade Publication | Industry-specific coverage | Feature emphasizing COO's "vital contribution to the fintech innovation" |
Strategic note: We supplemented articles with analytics data (Semrush reports) proving the publications' reach and credibility. This preempts any USCIS question about whether a publication qualifies as "major."
Criterion 3: Judging the Work of Others
The Challenge: Demonstrating that industry experts seek out your judgment on cutting-edge work.
The Solution: This was the strongest criterion in the case. Our client was invited to judge at the world's most prestigious accelerator program itself - alongside its CEO and other notable founders.
Judging Role | Significance | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
Top Accelerator Program Judge | Selected to evaluate thousands of startup applications alongside the accelerator's CEO and founders of billion-dollar companies | Confirmation letter from CEO |
AI Hackathon at Top Engineering College | Formal invitation citing "expertise in artificial intelligence" as selection basis | Invitation email + LinkedIn announcement |
AI Competition at Major University | Evaluated AI agents deployed to platform with 1.8M+ user waitlist; backed by major VC fund | Event documentation |
Why this was powerful: The accelerator's CEO letter stated our client was selected based on "expertise in artificial intelligence, proven fundraising success, active contributions to the community, and leadership of a distinguished business." It also noted he judged alongside the CEO himself and founders of companies worth billions.
Criterion 4: Original Contributions of Major Significance
The Challenge: Proving a COO's contributions are "original" and of "major significance" - not just execution of someone else's vision.
The Solution: We documented the co-founding of an innovative company addressing a massive market gap, validated by prestigious investors and measurable growth metrics.
The Innovation
Problem Addressed | Tens of billions in unclaimed consumer funds annually |
Solution Created | AI-powered platform that automatically scans receipts, identifies refund opportunities, and claims funds through multiple channels |
Market Impact | 233% month-over-month growth; thousands recovered for consumers |
Validation | Acceptance into world's top accelerator (less than 2% acceptance rate) |
Evidence of Major Significance
Top accelerator membership
Letter from CEO confirming the founding team demonstrated "extraordinary ability and significant achievements"
Company profile
Featured on accelerator's platform among notable startups, highlighting the COO's specific qualifications
Prior track record
National hackathon winner, successful business builder, engineering team leader - establishing a pattern of innovation
Criterion 5: Critical Role in Distinguished Organization
The Challenge: Proving both that the organization is "distinguished" AND that the COO role is "critical" - not just supporting.
The Solution: Extensive documentation of investor backing (proving distinguished reputation) combined with board resolution and operational evidence (proving critical role).
Distinguished Reputation: Investor Validation
Evidence | Details |
|---|---|
Total Investors | 29+ venture capital firms, family offices, and accredited investors |
Total Raised | Millions in funding |
Valuation | 8-figure post-money valuation |
Notable Investors | Top accelerator + multiple well-known VC firms |
Critical Role: Documentation
Board Resolution: Unanimous written consent appointing client as COO and Secretary
29 SAFE Agreements: Each investment document showing company's credibility and the COO's role in attracting capital
Trade Publication Quote: "[COO's] background in computer engineering and product development, reinforcing his vital contribution to the fintech innovation"
Strategic approach: We included ALL 29 SAFE agreements as exhibits. This wasn't overkill - it demonstrated the depth of due diligence sophisticated investors conducted on the company and its leadership team.
Key Lessons for COOs and Co-Founders Pursuing O-1A
1. COOs Can Absolutely Qualify
The O-1A standard is "extraordinary ability" - not "CEO title." A COO who drives operations, scaling, and execution at a high-growth startup has a strong case if properly documented.
2. Judging Your Own Accelerator Is Powerful Evidence
Being invited back to judge at the accelerator that accepted you demonstrates you've become a peer, not just a participant. This is recognition at the highest level.
3. Document Every Investor
29 SAFE agreements might seem excessive, but each one represents a sophisticated investor who conducted due diligence on the company and its leadership. That's 29 independent validations of distinguished reputation.
4. Get Media That Names You Specifically
"The company raised funding" doesn't help your O-1A case. "The COO, who has a background in computer engineering and won a national hackathon, was vital to the innovation" does. Ensure press coverage names you and your contributions.
5. Leverage Your Pre-Startup Track Record
This client's national hackathon win, previous engineering leadership, and successful side business were all relevant. Extraordinary ability isn't just about your current role - it's about a pattern of achievement.
Could Your Profile Support an O-1A?
If you're a COO, co-founder, or operational leader wondering whether your achievements qualify, consider:
Has your company raised funding from recognized investors or accelerators?
Have you been accepted into selective programs or organizations?
Have you judged competitions, evaluated applications, or mentored at accelerators?
Has your work been covered in media - with your name and contributions mentioned?
Do you have a track record of achievements before your current role (hackathon wins, previous ventures, etc.)?
If you answered yes to three or more of these questions, you likely have a stronger case than you think - regardless of whether you're CEO or COO.
Find Out Which Visa Is Right for You
Not sure if O-1A is your best path - or if EB-1A, EB-2 NIW, or another option fits better?
Our free evaluation takes 5 minutes and gives you a clear answer.
No lawyers. No jargon. Just a clear recommendation based on your profile.
This case study is based on an actual approved O-1A petition.
Details are shared with client permission for educational purposes.
Table of Contents
Quick Resources
Explore Topics
0%
Explore Topics
0%