For #2, when you reach out to founders, ask for a ten-minute call and stick to that. Always start the call with some quick context (1-2 mins) on what you do. Hi Reference , Great to meet via email. We're in discussions with Investor about an investment opportunity at MyCo , and she said you would be a good person to talk to as a reference. Do you

Following these steps will reliably create the best outcomes. Skipping steps introduces risk. Let’s take a closer look at each step: Step 1:

How have they helped you? ● Do you feel comfortable approaching them with challenges? Note: For exceptionally busy founder references who might be unresponsive, you can ask them the questions over email as a fallback. Letting them in If the references say things that turn you off to the investor, don’t let them in. It takes a lot for an investor to

still not raising! Why? You have a very short window of time to complete each fundraising round. The longer it drags out, the less momentum you have, and the more investors will question why you haven’t raised. So wait until you know without a doubt that you will succeed before you start raising. As soon as you start telling investors you’re

benefits, but you can build on the relationship without letting them on your cap table! Revealing too early that you’re fundraising This is another all-too-common

SAFEs or Notes

As a founder, you are the Chief Storyteller. In the very beginning, you have a story that only you believe. Soon, a couple more people believe that story (your

Looking forward to it! The First Meeting (the Intro) The first impression you make on an investor is everything. You better impress the heck out of them. This is best accomplished by being your uncompromising, confident, authentic self. The best way to get to know an investor is through dialogue, not decks

Of course, if you find a unicorn investor with an excellent brand and an excellent connection, go for it! But in all cases, prioritize the connection, vibe, and energy. Your partnership with them is more powerful and important than their fame. You should