What is the purpose of a warm introduction in the context of startup funding?

A warm introduction serves a strategic purpose in the startup funding context by facilitating a connection between the entrepreneur and the investor. The primary goal of this introduction is to increase the likelihood of securing a meeting with the investor. Investors often receive numerous proposals from startups, and a warm introduction—typically from a mutual contact who already has a relationship with both parties—can lend credibility to the entrepreneur and enhance the chances of the investor being receptive to the meeting request.

When a referral comes from a trusted source, it can help to overcome initial skepticism and encourage investors to take a closer look at the startup. This initial connection ideally leads to a discussion where the entrepreneur can articulate their vision and the investor can evaluate interest further.

In contrast, finalizing investment terms, pitching the startup idea, or creating a marketing strategy are subsequent steps that occur after a meeting has been secured. None of those steps would occur effectively without the prior establishment of the relationship facilitated by a warm introduction.