Free

How To Run Your First Meeting With A VC

Pitching to investors can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. With the expertise of Hustle Fund GPs Eric, Elizabeth, and Shiyan, who have reviewed over 50,000 startup pitches, this resource demystifies the process. We guide you through the essential steps of pitching, offering insights you won’t expect.

What You'll Learn:

  • How to Run Your First Meeting with a VC: Forget the traditional pitch deck! Learn why a more relaxed, conversational approach (even on Zoom) can foster better connections and create a balanced power dynamic, setting the stage for more authentic interactions.
  • Understanding Investor Perspectives: By tailoring your pitch based on what excites the investor, you can form deeper connections and improve your chances of success. Learn how to adapt your message to align with their values, such as emphasizing long-term vision or diversity.
  • Key Questions from Early-Stage VCs: Be ready for tough but insightful questions about your team, the problem you’re solving, your solution, market fit, and financial metrics. We provide a comprehensive list of common questions and what investors are really looking for.
  • How to Answer Investor Questions Gracefully: While you may not have all the answers, showing a solid understanding of your business metrics—especially in early stages—is crucial. Learn how to handle tough questions without becoming defensive, and show that you have a growth mindset.
  • What Founders Should Ask VCs: Fundraising is a two-way street. We share key questions founders should ask potential investors to ensure they’re a good fit for your business, not just a source of capital.

Whether it’s your first pitch or your fiftieth, this chapter equips you with the tools to approach investors confidently, engage in meaningful conversations, and avoid common pitfalls.

What you'll get:

  • Downloadable PDF