Two days of investor conversations can change a company's trajectory — or be completely wasted. The difference is preparation.
Here's how founders should approach [investor networking at Startup Summit Lisbon 2026](/for-investors).
Before the event
**Define what you want.** Are you raising now, building relationships for the next round, or looking for strategic angels? Each requires a different conversation.
**Build a shortlist.** Review the speaker list and confirmed attendees. Identify 15–20 investors who match your stage, sector and geography.
**Prepare a 60-second narrative.** What you do, who it's for, traction, and what you're raising. No deck required in the hallway.
During the event
Pick **2–3 sessions per day** and use the rest of the time for conversations. The hallway track is where capital decisions actually start.
Use the [agenda](/agenda) to identify investor panels and the [speakers page](/speakers) to spot LPs and VCs you want to meet.
After the event
Follow up within 48 hours with a short, specific note — reference the conversation, attach a one-pager, and propose next steps. Most founders skip this; the ones who don't, raise.
[Buy Startup Summit Lisbon 2026 tickets →](/tickets)
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.
