Networking Pro-Tip: How Not To Fundraise

This is another tale of what not to do to connect your goal (getting money) to community (early-stage investors).

For this post, I've chosen to let the words of the sender of these "seeking funding" emails (company name left blank, founder name included) speak for themselves.

If you need further explanation as to what is wrong with Tim/Timothy's approach, a suggestion: read this, this, this, this, this and listen to this (as you may find there, in all my various rants, the answer you are seeking).

Email Number 1:

Hi Kelly,

I'm reaching out personally to connect and discuss a potential investment opportunity.

I'm one of the founders at [insert name of company here] — our team has built an AI-driven qualitative financial analysis platform, designed and trained by hedge fund professionals to mimic the logic and decision-making of industry experts. 

We've recently secured the first money in from XYZ Ventures and are looking to raise $640k on a SAFE note. 

I'd be interested to hear your thoughts on this opportunity and whether you might consider coming on board. Mind if we send you our deck for a closer look?

Thank you,
Tim

Email Number 2:

Hey Kelly,  

Following up, looking to connect and discuss potential growth partnering opportunities. 

[insert name of company here] has developed a platform that simulates the expert decision-making processes of top financial analysts. 

We've successfully secured initial funding from XYZ Ventures and are now looking to raise $640k on a SAFE note. As we continue to evaluate potential investment opportunities, I would love to gauge your level of interest in participating in our growth along with any feedback you may have for us moving forward. 

Any thoughts or opposition to us sharing our deck?

Thank you,
Timothy

Email Number 3:

Hey Kelly,  

Touching base once more as we continue to seek strategic growth capital partners.

Our platform emulates the analytical acumen of industry-leading financial analysts, backed by initial investment from XYZ Ventures. We're looking to secure $640k  on a SAFE note. I'd be interested to hear your thoughts on this opportunity and whether you might consider coming on board. 

Mind if we send you our deck for a closer look?

Cheers,
Timothy