There are many meetings with potential investors when you're trying to get your startup off to the right start. Sometimes, the meeting is as simple as a "get-to-know-you" session. You must be prepared for it, regardless of what.
VC meetings are often more intimate and one-to-one than VC conferences, so it is important to be at your best.
Getting Ready for a VC Meeting
Your chances of making a lasting impression and establishing a relationship with your potential partner increase if you do your research before the meeting. This will help you get the most out of each meeting.
Here are some tips to help you prepare for a VC meeting.
Do Extensive Research
Research is the first step in determining who you will be meeting. Research is your friend. You should research the person you're meeting to find out about their past investments, their investment history, and the size and type of those investments.
Research their past investments and whether they have ever had exits. You should research the exits, both in terms of their nature and to whom they were sold. Although their investment history may not necessarily match yours, it is a good idea to be at least somewhat related.
Let me explain: Your Company might be in software as a service and the investor may primarily do consumer internet. It's not a good match and it's important to let them know as soon as possible so that there are no surprises.
Connect with A Person You Trust
As I mentioned, VC meetings are much more personal than conferences. It is a good idea to have a common connection. Seek out connections in your network and try to find a way to get a connection - a real one. You must make sure the connection is genuine and strong. It shouldn't be faked by someone you don't know.
Only legitimate connections can be helpful. Look into your wider network to see who is who. Learn the details of their relationship, such as a shared Alma matter or work history.
Learn the Firm’s Focus
Understanding the focus of venture capital firms will help you determine if your company is a good candidate for investment.
You don't have to be perfect, but it's okay not to get discouraged. Even if you don't fit the criteria, it is okay to set up a meeting with them to introduce yourself and let them know who you are.
Making them aware of your efforts will help you continue scaling, and may even lead to them wanting to invest.
Sow the seeds of a strong partnership so that your company can grow and the relationship with investors. They may be willing to jump in if the time is right.
Make Sure to Point Out The Differences
Every VC firm in Israel and the world is a little different. Take a look at the portfolios of past and current VC firms. You can go into detail about who is now there, who was there previously, who they have invested in, and what makes this firm unique among other key details.
You will be able to tailor your questions to the specific issue if you have done your research. This will make you stand out from most Israeli Venture Capital firms and other firms you meet, and it will also help you gain the information you seek.
Set A Goal
Establish an objective before you enter any conference room. You should also have clear expectations about what you want from the meeting. This will give you something to strive for in the meeting.