Any tips for getting that first crucial meeting with a VC?
Nina Achadjian, Partner at Index Ventures: Cold emails rarely work, unless you write a really good one. The first path is to get an introduction via another founder that the firm has backed or via an investor that knows them, though an introduction from another founder is probably better.
Instead of sending an email with vague language about what you do, write your best five-line pitch: why your company is important, why it’s relevant to the firm, and why this investor is the right person. Show some metrics too.
Lastly, create a sense of urgency. Be genuine, but explain that you’ve had a lot of inbound and think that this investor would be the perfect partner. Push them to meet in the next couple weeks.
Submit your questions on early stage startups, fundraising, and building excellence in leadership here. We’ll draw expertise from our network of investors and executives from Index portfolio companies. All questions will be handled in confidence.
