Meeting investors at startup events is one of the most effective ways to start fundraising conversations. But showing up and hoping for the best isn't a strategy. Here's how to do it properly.
Understand What Investors Are Looking For
At startup events, investors are scanning for three things: a founder who understands their market deeply, a product with early traction or clear potential, and a clear ask — whether that's a meeting, a pilot, or a term sheet. Be ready to communicate all three in under two minutes.
Choose the Right Event
Not all startup events are created equal for investor access. Look for events that offer dedicated investor networking, speed networking with founders, investor office hours, and a mix of angels, VCs, and corporate investors. Startup Summit Lisbon offers all of these through the Investor Pass and Founder Pass.
Research Investors Before the Event
Check the speaker list and attendee list for active investors. Look at their portfolio, check size, and sector focus. Prepare a tailored reason to meet each one. A generic 'I'd love to chat' is less effective than 'I saw you led a round in [similar company] — we're building in the same space and I'd love 5 minutes.'
Use Structured Networking Sessions
Speed networking and scheduled 1:1 meetings are your highest-ROI moments. Sign up early, prepare your pitch, and use these sessions to start conversations — not close deals. The goal is to get a follow-up meeting, not an investment decision on the spot.
Work the Expo Floor
If you have a startup booth, investors will come to you. Have a clear demo ready, a concise pitch, and a way to capture interest (QR code, email signup, or a simple 'can I send you our deck?'). If you're attending without a booth, walk the expo floor and introduce yourself to founders exhibiting — they often know the investors in the room.
Follow Up Fast
Send a personalised follow-up within 24–48 hours. Reference what you discussed, attach your deck if relevant, and propose a specific next step. Most founders lose momentum by waiting too long.
Where to Start
Startup Summit Lisbon 2026 (September 17–18) brings together investors, angels and VC funds including angels, VCs, and family offices. The Investor Pass includes dedicated networking, and the Founder Pass and Startup Booth Package both provide strong investor access. Get your pass early — investor-focused sessions fill up fast.
Startup Summit is a founder-first European startup conference — 2,000+ founders, investors and operators, 150+ speakers, 200+ startup booths, 3 stages. September 17–18, 2026 at Unicorn Factory Lisboa – Beato Innovation District, Lisbon.
Tickets from €49.
