The Founder Initiative

Sending sophisticated quarterly updates to VCs who are not yet ready to invest may get them to rethink their decision, or even just help with introductions and small favors down the road.

Growth is everything.

You should broadcast any signal you have of growth to as many VCs as possible.

You don't need to accept the first offer you're given. Saying no can show your conviction and help you hyper-target the best fit firm.

Having the person with the vision (the CEO,) and the person in charge of the execution (COO or CTO,) will be the most effective pitch duo.

Personalize messages for cold outreach when an introduction isn't possible.

"Create" warm introductions when you don't have direct ones.

Using your deck to "tell your story"

Respecting VC's time can lead to more success than trying to over converse with them.

Giving investors what they want is better than trying to be radically different.

Using your university's resources and your inexperience as leverage to stand out.

Schedule all key meetings on Monday and Tuesday of the same week to siphon as much excitement as possible.

Networking tips to get more pitches.

If you're in a market that is less known, make sure to benchmark your TAM to something your investor understands.

Check out Rachel and Red Bike Capital!

https://redbikecapital.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-ten-brink-a08151/"

How entrepreneurs can gain leverage in the fundraising process when they start to receive term sheets.