Being genuine when sharing your risks with investors builds real trust rather than creating false trust with hype.

Sharing all your data from the start will save you time and help you filter the VCs that are genuinely interested.

Make sure your company's vision aligns with the VC's ultimate goals to ensure an effective and lasting partnership.

Letting your customer base invest will help expand your network and increase customer enthusiasm.

Using a VC's social media presence can help give you an idea if their general views align with yours.

Using crowdfunding and syndicates to expedite the fundraising process.

You'll know after a pitch who really wants to invest, and playing games with them won't help.

Making your pitch easy to digest, with all needed information on it, will help VCs think when they're reflecting on your pitch.

Don't sell yourself short. Aim for an addressable market over $10 billion.

Using 'committed' clients as traction can be sufficient for firms to know that there is a market for your product.

With small checks comes big networks and expertise.

Expanding your cap table to include passionate investors of all sizes can help you grow your network, strengthen your relationship with your customer base, and have a long list of real people to fall back on.

Using NFTs to build an involved and active community around your growth.