How do I approach wealthy investors?
Short answer
I approach wealthy investors by adding value first, understanding what they invest in, and building a relationship before asking for capital. Wealthy investors are busy, and most receive far more pitches than they could ever review. I want to understand their investment priorities, respect their time, and give them a reason to remember me. The goal is not to convince every wealthy person to invest. It is to build relationships with the right investors who already have an interest in what I am doing.
Checklist
- Identify investors whose investment preferences match your opportunity.
- Research their background before contacting them.
- Understand their investment strike zone, including industries, deal sizes, and structures.
- Lead with something useful before you ask for money.
- Explain your business and investment opportunity clearly.
- Respect their time with short, focused conversations.
- Keep notes and follow up with information relevant to their interests.
- Build relationships before you urgently need capital.
From my talks
"I only follow up when I have something of great value, not to pitch random ideas or make introductions they didn't ask for."
One example I have shared involves a billionaire we helped establish a family office relationship with. We initially provided assistance without charging for that work. That relationship eventually led to 19 transactions together. The lesson is that when you create genuine value before asking for something, you can build relationships that extend well beyond a single transaction.
I also emphasize that wealthy investors can tell when someone is desperate to close a deal. Pressure usually makes the relationship harder.
What to do next
- Identify 25 investors whose preferences align with your opportunity.
- Research each investor and prepare a specific reason to connect.
- Develop something educational or useful you can share before making an investment request.
Related questions
- How do billionaires decide what to invest in?
- What percentage of equity should I give investors?
- What are the biggest mistakes people make when raising capital?
Work through it with the one-liner builder.
