In a recent LinkedIn post, Max Pog discusses a strategic approach for startups seeking to build their investor lists, emphasizing the benefits of targeting emerging venture capital (VC) funds over more established ones. Pog highlights that these newer funds are often more accessible and receptive to pitches, offering a potentially more fruitful avenue for fundraising.
Pog’s core argument centers on the idea that the sheer volume of pitches received by well-known VCs can lead to overlooked opportunities for startups. He suggests that emerging funds, by contrast, have less crowded inboxes, increasing the likelihood of a response.
“We put 40+ hours of research into gathering this data: – Stage/sector/region focus – Fund size – Website – LinkedIn page”
The Advantage of Emerging VC Funds
According to Max Pog, startups often face an uphill battle when trying to capture the attention of top-tier VCs. The competitive landscape means that even promising pitches can get lost in the noise. Pog advocates for a shift in focus towards funds that are actively seeking new investments but may not yet have the extensive track record or brand recognition of industry giants.
Pog elaborates on this point, stating:
“Let me know in the comments if you’d like free access”
This suggests a proactive strategy where founders can leverage less saturated channels to make meaningful connections. As Pog notes, the key is understanding where your pitch has the highest probability of being seen and considered.
Data-Driven Outreach Strategy
Max Pog emphasizes the importance of thorough research when compiling an investor list. His post details the value of a curated database, which he has made available, containing information on 180 emerging VC funds. This database includes crucial details such as:
- Stage, sector, and region focus
- Fund size
- Website and LinkedIn page information
Pog argues that this level of detail is essential for tailoring pitches effectively. By understanding a fund’s specific investment thesis and operational details, startups can craft more relevant and compelling outreach messages.
“they’re much more likely to respond to a startup pitch than famous VCs, because their inboxes don’t get thousands of emails each week.”
In Pog’s view, this data-driven approach not only saves time but also significantly improves the efficiency and success rate of fundraising efforts. He points out that the investment in research, both by his team and by the founders themselves, is critical for navigating the complex world of venture capital.
Leveraging Accessible Funds for Growth
The insights shared by Max Pog on LinkedIn offer a practical roadmap for startups looking to secure funding. By focusing on emerging VC funds, founders can potentially bypass the intense competition faced when approaching more established firms. As Pog highlights, the accessibility of these newer funds presents a valuable opportunity.
His willingness to share a meticulously researched database underscores a belief in supporting the startup ecosystem. Pog’s strategy encourages founders to think critically about their outreach and to prioritize quality over quantity when engaging with potential investors.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Max Pog on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on August 13, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →