Not in the sense that most HN readers view VC money, as a necessity to launch or continue operations. 37signals was 2 and a half years into existence with multiple products and a few hundred thousand paying users. They didn't give up control and don't have to sweat out how to exit so their investor gets an acceptable ROI. 37signals would have been able to continue operations without the investment.

The investment looks like a way to formalize a long term relationship both sides desired. It doesn't resemble anything like 95% of VC deals that are associated with SV or the types of starts ups associated with HN's readership.

http://37signals.com/svn/archives2/bezos_expeditions_invests...