You know that tech investors actually buy ownership in companies, right? The reason worker-owned co-operatives work well is _because_ they don't have tech investors making stupid demands for good quarterly reports.
Some friend of a friend always have something interesting going on. But interviewing them is key. Remember the interview process isn't just about them accepting _you_, it's equally (or even more) about you accepting them.
Take references (talk to people working there about what the environment is like). Make sure they're a good team fit (make sure to have interviews with the people you'd be working with). Ensure they're as competent as they say they are (talk to people there working with similar stuff as you to ensure they know what they're talking about). Et.c. et.c.
Once all of this is cleared, you can start talking about salaries and other superficial things.