Raising capital is about more than just a great product or idea—it’s about how well you pitch it, how prepared you are, and how strategically you engage. Whether you’re a first-time entrepreneur or a seasoned founder, these five powerful fundraising tips from women investors can help you build your approach, win trust, and increase your chances of securing capital.
1. Do Your Homework—Know Your Investor
One of the most common tips from experienced investors like Arlan Hamilton and Aileen Lee is this: know exactly who you’re pitching to.
Before you reach out, research each investor’s:
- Investment stage (pre-seed, seed, Series A, etc.)
- Industry focus
- Past portfolio companies
- Personal or firm values
Tailoring your pitch to align with an investor’s profile demonstrates preparation and respect for their time. It also boosts your credibility and dramatically increases your chance of landing a meeting. Generic pitches rarely win—customized ones do.
2. Build Relationships Before You Pitch
According to Nisha Dua, co-founder of BBG Ventures, the best fundraising doesn’t begin with a pitch—it starts with a relationship.
Start early. Share progress updates, engage with investors online, and ask for feedback before you ever ask for money. This creates familiarity, builds trust, and proves you’re transparent and consistent.
When investors see your journey and how you respond to advice, they’re more likely to believe in your execution abilities and invest.
3. Know Your Numbers—and Own Them
Data matters. Period. And women investors consistently emphasize the importance of financial fluency.
You must know:
- CAC (Customer Acquisition Cost)
- LTV (Lifetime Value)
- Churn rate
- Burn rate
- Revenue projections
Sarah Kunst of Cleo Capital puts it bluntly—founders who understand and explain their numbers are more credible and fundable. Don’t just memorize metrics—tie them into your business strategy and decision-making. Your confidence in the numbers builds investor trust.
4. Storytelling in Fundraising: A Strategy That Converts
Kirsten Green from Forerunner Ventures reminds founders that people invest in people and stories—not just financial models.
Craft a compelling origin story that reflects:
- Why you started the business
- What unique problem you’re solving
- How your personal experience fuels your mission
A powerful story builds emotional connection, strengthens your pitch, and helps you stand out in a crowded field. Let your passion shine.
5. Fundraising with Intention: Every Move Matters
Intentionality is a theme echoed by many top women investors. Every slide in your pitch deck, every email you send, every stat you present—it should all serve a purpose.
Be clear about your:
- value proposition
- funding ask
- use of funds
- long-term vision
Intentional founders appear focused, strategic, and confident—qualities that investors actively seek. Being deliberate in every detail of your fundraising journey sets you apart.
Conclusion: Strategic Fundraising Starts With You
The most successful founders don’t just raise capital—they raise strategically. These fundraising tips from women investors prove that preparation, storytelling, confidence, and relationship-building are essential skills for attracting the right capital.
When you approach fundraising with clarity and purpose, you’re not begging for money—you’re inviting investors to join a bold, visionary mission.