Jacopo Mele

Facing rejection is tough, but it's a natural part of the entrepreneurial journey. Before fine-tuning your pitch, take a step back and honestly assess your venture. Ask yourself: Does your company truly offer returns that justify the investment? Do your values and vision align with potential investors? Sometimes, a mismatch in these fundamental areas means the partnership wasn't meant to be—and that's okay. Remember, many successful ventures are bootstrapped. However, if you're confident in your path, keep pushing! Fundraising is both a quality and quantity game. Stay resilient, learn from each interaction, and keep refining your approach. The right investors are out there for those who persist.

At Moonstone, our two-week investment timeframe isn't a constraint—it's a strategic advantage. This approach sharpens our focus on critical factors: a specialized lead investor and a defensible competitive edge. By streamlining our process, we make swift, yet informed decisions, aligning with founder's need for speedy capital. This efficiency not only benefits our fund but also appeals to founders who value decisive partners.

At Moonstone, we've streamlined our process to make decisions within two weeks, focusing on clear investment signals. We prioritize the presence of a specialized lead investor and a defensible competitive edge. This lean approach allows us to quickly identify promising opportunities while maintaining rigorous standards. By honing in on these key indicators, we cut through the noise of conflicting data, ensuring swift yet informed decision-making in a fast-paced VC landscape.

At Moonstone, we've found that the most effective way to boost deal flow isn't through traditional networking events, but rather through building a solid reputation over time. In my experience, and that of many colleagues, deal flow is significantly influenced by the professional reputation you cultivate throughout your career. We've observed that founders and other investors are more likely to bring opportunities to those they respect and trust. This trust is earned through consistent professionalism, integrity, and a track record of adding value beyond capital.

At Moonstone, the value of such support is well-understood. Our ticket is an "Angel Sized one." Even though we are a VC and not an angel, our internal knowledge base and network of partners and friends are key assets that help startups navigate challenges and seize opportunities. Being part of Moonstone's portfolio means access to this robust support system, making the investor's role even more impactful.

At Moonstone, the knowledge base provided by our network of partners is crucial in supporting startups. Our associates bring a diverse range of experiences that play a significant role not only in evaluating deals but, more importantly, in addressing the challenges our startups face. Their expertise spans various industries and functions, enabling them to offer valuable insights and practical solutions. This collective wisdom helps us guide startups through complex issues and navigate critical decisions, thereby enhancing their chances of success and growth.