How to Piss Off Investors

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How to Piss Off Investors

Let’s face it — every founder thinks they’re special. We kind of have to. A little bit of delusion is a survival mechanism in this game. Otherwise, we’d all give up before the first rejection email.

But there’s a difference between being ambitious and being careless. And way too many founders go full “spray and pray” with their outreach — which not only doesn’t work, but ends up doing more harm than good.

I’ve invested in a few startups myself, and running Rare Founders means I’m constantly speaking to other angels, VCs, syndicate leads, and accelerator partners. The feedback is always the same. Founders keep making the same mistakes — and they’re turning potential allies into very annoyed people.

So if you want to avoid becoming that founder, read this 👇

🔴 Don’t add investors to your update list without asking.

I’m not the only one who gets this — every investor I know is spammed daily with random “investor updates” from founders they’ve never spoken to. Guess what we do with those emails? Mark as spam. Every time.

Not only does that annoy investors, but it damages your email deliverability — so even the right people will stop seeing your updates. Just ask. If someone wants to hear from you, great. If not, save yourself the hassle.

🔴 Stop sending cold messages without checking relevance.

Most investors clearly state their criteria — on LinkedIn, websites, even Twitter/X bios. But founders still ignore it and send pitch messages that have nothing to do with what that investor actually backs.

I’ve had this happen, and so has every investor I know. If you can’t be bothered to read a LinkedIn profile or Google a thesis, don’t expect a reply. Straight to spam or ignore.

🔴 Don’t pitch 2 seconds after connecting on LinkedIn.

Again — this isn’t just me. Ask any investor and they’ll tell you: nothing screams “I don’t respect your time” more than an instant cold pitch right after the connection is accepted.

What works? Personalised messages. Something like: “I saw your comment on X,” or “I’ve been to your event — it really helped me,” or “I loved your blog on Y.” These always stand out. The rest? Delete.

🔴 No reply after 3 messages = move on.

This applies to all outreach — email, LinkedIn, whatever. Most investors are overwhelmed with messages and pitches. If someone hasn’t replied after a couple of follow-ups, take the hint. It’s not personal. Move on and try again in 6-12 months if it makes sense.

🔴 Read the damn investment criteria.

This is probably the most common complaint from every VC, accelerator, and pitching competition I’ve spoken to. Founders apply without checking if they’re even a fit.

All the info is public — stage, sector, cheque size, region. But too many founders just assume “maybe they’ll like us anyway.” No. They won’t. You’ll just come across as sloppy and unprepared.

🔴 Don’t send generic messages. Ever.

Mail merge and automation tools are tempting — but it’s obvious when you’re using them. Every investor I know can spot a generic message a mile away. If you’re not putting in the effort to personalise, don’t expect effort in return.

Use tools like ShipShape.vc if you need help — but at the very least, read someone’s damn LinkedIn before hitting send.

This stuff isn’t just about “best practice.” It’s basic respect for people’s time and attention. You’re not just hurting your own chances — you’re making it harder for every other founder who does take the time to do it properly.

So be the founder who stands out — in a good way.

🗳️ Be honest — which of these have you done before? 😅

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SUPPORTER SPOTLIGHT🎤 

This month’s supporter shoutout goes to Hristina Georgieva, building Hyve Dynamics, a company transforming how industries capture real-time aerodynamic, thermal, and structural data. Their ultra-thin, flexible sensor tech delivers high-precision insights for aerospace, automotive, and renewable energy sectors — all in dynamic, real-world environments. Check them out here.

PARTNER EVENTS🔥

OVH Cloud

Unleashing Europe's Underestimated Tech Potential

​In a rapidly shifting global tech landscape, Europe stands at a pivotal crossroads. As questions of sovereignty, resilience, and strategic independence rise to the forefront, how can startups lead the way in building a stronger, more self-reliant European tech ecosystem? Join us as we explore the road to 2035 through the lens of AI innovation, VC funding, and a renewed European agenda—all with the wit and energy of a late-night show.

In-person event

WeWork - Office Space & Coworking 10 York Rd, London, SE1 7ND, UK

Tue 13 May, 16:00 - 21:00 GMT

OTHER LONDON EVENTS🌟

Sclr labs

Taxed & Tested – Startup Audit-Geddon

This event offers a critical briefing for startups navigating HMRC enquiries, covering common triggers, real case studies, and expert strategies to handle tax scrutiny. Attendees will gain insider knowledge from a firm uniquely equipped with former HMRC inspectors who defend and proactively support scaling companies.

In-person event

Regent Street Area, London, UK

Thu 8 May, 10:00 - 12:30 BST

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Generative AI And The Power To Amplify Human Capabilities

Join to discover how generative AI can amplify human potential, accelerating innovation and execution. This session features the story of a company built using AI tools—from branding to code—that reached $1 million in sales in under 18 months.

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Thu 8 May, 12:00 - 12:30 BST

HYPE: IRL Tech Events

Founder F.C: Founder vs Founder

A friendly football match is bringing together startup founders across all stages for an evening of light-hearted competition and networking. It’s a chance to connect, play, and enjoy the startup community in a fun, informal setting.

In-person event

Norman Street Area, London, UK

Thu 8 May, 18:00 - 20:00 BST

The GenAI Collective

🇬🇧 LONDON DEMO NIGHT 💂🏼‍♂️ 🧠 

Join the GenAI Collective's demo night to see the most innovative products and technologies, featuring hand-selected demoists from leading startup accelerators. It's a chance for founders to present their ideas to the London tech community and receive valuable feedback.

In-person event

Gorsuch Pl Area, London, UK

Thu 8 May, 18:30 - 21:00 BST

Project PULSE Community Events

PULSE Run Club - Connection and Movement for Ambitious Professionals

This weekly event combines a morning run with a unique blend of gratitude discussions, energizing visualizations, and light-hearted games to foster real connections among professionals. Participants can enjoy a coffee or drink afterward while setting positive intentions for the day.

In-person event

St. Paul's Churchyard, London, UK

Sat 10 May, 12:30 - 13:45 BST

EF Calendar

Zero to US Challenge

Join us for the Zero to US Challenge, a 5-day online hackathon where global builders, both technical and non-technical, create a product using Lovable to break into the US market. Teams are ranked based on revenue generated and social media virality, with the winning team earning a lunch with the CEO.

Online event

Mon 12 May, 16:00 BST

Datamellon

London AI Ignite Pitch Battle

An electrifying pitch battle where ten AI startups present groundbreaking solutions through rapid-fire pitches and live demos to a room full of investors, founders, and tech enthusiasts. Designed to spotlight developer-led innovation, the event offers a platform for exposure, funding opportunities, and global recognition.

In-person event

St. Thomas Street Area, London, UK

Tue 13 May, 17:30 - 21:00 BST

Novabook

TechTrek | Run Club

Join a monthly running club that invites founders, investors, and tech enthusiasts to join a 5km run from Victoria to Battersea Park and back. With two groups for different paces, it offers a fun, inclusive opportunity for networking and staying active within the startup ecosystem.

In-person event

123 Palace Rd, London, SW1W 9SH, UK

Tue 13 May, 18:00 - 19:30 BST

Endeavor

Meet & Grit 🇺🇦🇬🇧

Meet & Grit is a dynamic gathering designed to foster connections among top Ukrainian and global founders, investors, and business leaders. The event celebrates innovation, entrepreneurship, and culture while offering exclusive insights into Endeavor's global impact and investment initiatives.

In-person event

Victoria Street Area, London, UK

Tue 13 May, 18:00 - 22:00 BST

Mara

The Future of VC: Consolidation, Liquidity and the Road Ahead

Join a forward-looking conversation on the transformation of venture capital, exploring the impact of consolidation on innovation and emerging managers. Topics will include alternative funding models, the exit environment, and the future of VC, with opportunities for networking and insightful discussions.

In-person event

27 Poultry, London, EC2R 8AJ, UK

Wed 14 May, 09:00 - 10:30 BST

Ken Valledy

'The Great Escape'

This interactive masterclass empowers aspiring entrepreneurs to overcome fear and take the first steps toward leaving corporate life behind—without risking financial stability. Through myth-busting insights and the practical R.E.A.C.T. Model, participants gain the tools and confidence to start building a life of entrepreneurial freedom.

Online event

Wed 14 May, 14:00 - 15:00 BST

SeedLegals

SeedLegals Startup Awards

The SeedLegals Startup Awards 2025 will bring together UK founders, investors, and startup leaders for an evening of celebration, networking, and inspiration. Attendees can connect with top minds, enjoy immersive brand activations, and vie for over £60,000 in prizes, including a £50k+ investment for Startup of the Year.

In-person event

Roundhouse, London, NW1 8EH, UK

Wed 14 May, 18:00 - 23:59 BST

South East Angels

Journey To Exit

Join an honest and practical discussion designed to help business owners prepare for an eventual exit, with real stories and expert insights on building transferable value and navigating the emotional and strategic complexities of letting go. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of what buyers seek, how to plan leadership transitions, and the realities of the exit journey from those who’ve lived it.

In-person event

Nile St, Brighton, BN1 1HW, UK

Thu 15 May, 18:00 - 20:00 BST

Unrest

IMPACT INVESTOR OFFICE HOURS - PITCH NIGHT

Join an evening of impactful networking and innovation, where ten standout founders will pitch ventures tackling major societal challenges. Meet the visionary teams and connect with a curated investor audience over refreshments in a relaxed setting.

In-person event

Clerkenwell Rd Area, London, UK

Thu 15 May, 18:00 - 21:00 BST

Edge Tech

Panel Discussion and Networking

An exclusive in-person event explores the real-world impact of Microsoft’s Power Platform in intelligent automation and AI, featuring insights from industry leaders at Microsoft and Robiquity. Attendees can expect a fast-paced discussion on automation use cases, challenges, and future trends, with practical takeaways and networking opportunities.

In-person event

37 Cavendish Sq, London, W1G 0PP, UK

Thu 15 May, 18:00 - 21:00 BST

She Bytes Back

Building Unshakeable Confidence

Join the She Bytes Back event, where you'll build unshakeable confidence and learn to take bold action even when you don’t feel “ready.” Discover how to overcome comparison traps, step into exciting opportunities, and enjoy a fun networking game.

In-person event

Copthall Ave. Area, London, UK

Thu 15 May, 18:00 - 21:00 BST

EF

EF x Anthropic | After Work Hack

A relaxed evening of coding will bring together developers, founders, and students for a 3-hour session to collaborate, create, and connect in a chill hackathon environment. Attendees will have access to pizza, refreshments, swag, and model credits, with the opportunity to work on personal projects or explore new ideas.

In-person event

Goswell Road Area, London, UK

Thu 15 May, 18:30 - 21:30 BST

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Vasily Alekseenko
Founder
@ Rare Founders

Rare Founders - building the bridge between founders and investors via regular in-person and online events, meetups, conferences.

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