Emerging managers and new VCs face the cold-start problem: no brand, no network, no deal flow. Here's how to build a data-driven sourcing engine from scratch.
Start with data, not network. Use GitDealFlow or similar tools to find accelerating startups. Cold outreach with specific, data-backed observations ('I noticed your team's GitHub velocity increased 40% this quarter') works better than generic 'I'm an investor' intros.
Minimum viable stack: 1) a signal tool (GitDealFlow), 2) a basic CRM (Airtable, Notion), 3) a round-history database (Crunchbase free tier). Total cost: EUR 49/month. Add layers as you scale.
Start with 50-100 in your CRM. Add 5-10 per week from your signal tool. Track outreach, follow-ups, and pipeline stage. After 6 months, you'll have a system.
You can't compete on brand or network. Compete on speed and specificity. Reach out first (GitHub signal gives you a 3-6 week head start) and be specific about what you noticed. Founders remember the investor who did their homework.
Waiting for warm intros. Intro-driven sourcing favors established funds with deep networks. Data-driven sourcing favors whoever has the best signal. As a new fund, data is your only edge — use it.
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