Warm Introduction
Definition
A warm introduction is a referral to an investor from someone they trust, typically a portfolio founder or co-investor, usually via a forwardable email.
How it comes up in fundraising
Warm intros roughly double or triple reply rates versus cold outreach, but in 2026 they are an accelerant, not a gate: well-targeted cold email gets meetings too.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get warm intros without a network?
Build the target list first, then work backward through portfolio founders and mutual connections; a concise forwardable email makes saying yes easy.
Are cold emails to investors acceptable?
Completely; short, specific, traction-led cold emails to well-matched investors earn 10 to 15 percent reply rates.
Round Funded resources
Related terms
Put this term to work
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