By Karen Deyo, VP of Product, Israel BD, LSN
Many entrepreneurs hope there’s a “secret sauce” or formula for success. In reality, it’s much more about attitude and persistence than any secret trick. Across hundreds of startups we’ve met, the most consistent trait among successful founders is determination — the willingness to try every avenue, face setbacks head-on, and keep finding new ways forward.
One of the toughest challenges founders face is getting in front of investors. Whether it’s outreach for a partnering event, sending a cold email, or following up after a meeting, responses can be few and far between. This silence often feels discouraging — some see it as rejection or assume something’s wrong with their company. More often than not, though, it’s simply a matter of timing, clarity, or persistence.
At RESI, we’ve seen time and again that the entrepreneurs who keep going — who adapt and stay visible — are the ones who eventually break through. Here are a few strategies that can make the difference:
- Keep Following Up
Persistence pays off. One CEO sent 20 follow-up emails over six months before finally securing a meeting. The investor only vaguely remembered the company but appreciated the founder’s consistency and determination. The lesson? As long as you haven’t heard “no,” keep reaching out. You’re not being a nuisance — you’re demonstrating commitment.
- Find Another Approach
When one CEO didn’t get as many meetings as hoped at a RESI event, he asked which investors from his target list had checked in. Armed with that information, he sought them out while networking, leading to several meaningful conversations. Whether it’s catching investors after a panel, reaching out via LinkedIn, or changing your communication style, adapt until you make contact.
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- Maximize Every Opportunity
Visibility matters. One Innovator’s Pitch Challenge (IPC) participant hosted a raffle at their poster to attract attendees. The result? Buzz around their company, new ad hoc meetings, and ultimately, an IPC win. By creating a memorable experience, they stood out in a crowded environment — and investors took notice.
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Takeaway
There’s no shortcut to building investor relationships — but determination, creativity, and consistent action go a long way. Keep putting yourself and your company out there, follow up with intention, and make every opportunity count. At RESI, we see it time and again: the founders who stay proactive and visible are the ones who get results.
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