How to Network with Funders
‘Networking with Funders’ was a great success with the largest workshop crowd to date! Present were over 20 funders and service providers, six business showcase participants and 240 attendees. We heard from each funder and service provider regarding what they can do for startups and scaleups, and the business showcase participants represented the food and beverage, eco-friendly and tech sectors.
Despite these individuals all being in the same room, thus making it easy to network with funders, there are still a few things to know about how to network in the most efficient and beneficial ways. Read our tips before you head to your next networking event!
- Have a goal — Attending a networking event ‘just to network’ isn’t enough. Go beyond that and set a goal for yourself. Do you want to meet at least three VCs? Do you want to learn more about crowdfunding from a direct source? Establish the goal and keep it in mind as you go around the room.
- Know who is there — Before you arrive, check the event page to see the list of companies that will be there. Do your research on each to narrow down which ones are looking for startups like you and ensure that you speak with them first.
- Be straightforward — If you are looking to connect with a specific funder, chances are that other entrepreneurs are wanting to connect to that same person. Because of this, it’s important to cut to the chase about who you are and what you are looking for before someone else tries to come in to the conversation.
- Show your personality — Just like job interviews, let your personality shine through. People will remember the engaging conversations as opposed to the boring ones.
- Follow up — Not following up is one of the biggest mistakes of networking events. After all, you just collected business cards for a few hours! If possible, make notes of your conversations so you can mention them in the email and/or phone call. Don’t wait more than 48 hours.
Our next networking event ‘Christmas Networking Soirée with Funders’ will be taking place in December! Secure your early bird tickets here.
Interested in networking and learning from game developers? Join us on Sept, 5th for ‘Money 101 for Game Devs’ and learn about how you could get free cash from the UK government! Tickets available here.
Don’t know where to start? The ‘Start It Up! Start It Great!’ conference will be taking place on Sept, 26th. Secure your tickets today to hear from funders, service providers and successful entrepreneurs.

