The Perfect VC Intro: How to Convince Top Tier VCs - with Filip Dames, Cherry Ventures

About this episode

As a founder, you face a crucial question during fundraising: How do you even get access to top-tier investors? Filip Dames, Founding Partner at Cherry Ventures, provides rare insights into the mindset of a leading European VC fund in this conversation.

The Perfect VC Intro: Quality Beats Quantity

Most founders make a fundamental mistake: they believe all intros are equally valuable. Filip explains that the source of the introduction is decisive. A warm intro from a portfolio founder or another VC carries significantly more weight than a cold email.

"We receive thousands of inquiries," Filip explains. "What really makes us pay attention are recommendations from people whose judgment we trust." It's not just about the name - but about the credibility of the person making the recommendation.

The most effective intros come from:

• –Existing portfolio companies
• –Other VCs or angels
• –Industry experts with track record
• –Successful founders from the network

Pitch Deck: To Send or Not to Send on First Contact?

One of the most common uncertainties: Should the pitch deck be sent directly with the first message? Filip's answer is pragmatic: "It depends, but in most cases it makes sense."

A well-structured deck shows professionalism and gives the VC an immediate overview. However, it should be concise - maximum 10-12 slides for the first round. The focus should be on: Problem, Solution, Market Size, Traction, and Team.

Partner Attention: Does It Need to Be the Senior Partner Immediately?

"Many founders think they need the Managing Partner's attention from day one," Filip observes. "That's a myth." At Cherry Ventures, the entire team works closely together. An Investment Associate can be just as effective in driving a deal forward.

What's more important is that the first contact reaches the right person - someone who understands the business model and can fight for you internally. The hierarchy within the VC fund is less relevant than the professional fit.

Orchestrating the Fundraising Process

A professional fundraising process can make the difference between success and failure. Filip emphasizes the importance of well-thought-out timing: "Founders should coordinate their conversations so that all relevant VCs are interested at the same time."

The ideal strategy:

1. –Create a list of 15-20 relevant VCs
2. –Schedule conversations within 4-6 weeks
3. –Negotiate in parallel rather than sequentially
4. –Create FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) through coordinated timing

Persistence vs. Acceptance: When Is a Rejection Final?

One of the most difficult questions in fundraising: When should you follow up and when should you accept rejection? Filip differentiates: "When we explicitly say 'No,' that's final. But with a 'Not yet' or 'Too early,' the situation can completely change in 6-12 months."

Founders should pay attention to nuances. A VC who says "Show us more traction" provides a clear roadmap. A blanket "Doesn't fit our portfolio" is final, however.

Due Diligence: Where Most Deals Fail

Even when a VC shows basic interest, deals can fall apart during due diligence. Filip names the most common stumbling blocks:

Financial discrepancies: Numbers that don't match previous presentations are an absolute no-go. Transparency is more important than perfect metrics.

Team dynamics: Conflicts within the founding team or unclear roles often lead to failure. VCs primarily invest in people, not just business models.

Inflated valuation expectations: Unrealistic valuations that cannot be supported by benchmarks.

Clarity About Your Own Deal

Filip emphasizes an often overlooked point: "Founders must have absolute clarity about their deal." This doesn't just mean knowing the numbers, but being able to tell the story behind them.

Successful founders can explain in two minutes:

• –Why they're solving this problem
• –Why now is the right time
• –Why they're the right team
• –How they'll turn money into growth

Conclusion: Professionalization Makes the Difference

The fundraising market is becoming increasingly professional. Founders who approach VCs with a clear strategy, proper timing, and authentic communication have significantly better chances of success.

Filip's most important advice: "Treat fundraising like any other important business process. With preparation, strategy, and proper execution."