Why talk to other founders
Most problems an early-stage founder runs into, like pricing, a first hire or a difficult investor term, someone a year or two ahead has already dealt with. A thirty-minute conversation with them can replace weeks of guessing.
Founder conversations also lead to things you can't plan for: an introduction to an investor, a co-founder, a first customer, or a partner for an event.
Who to talk to
Founders a stage ahead
They remember your current problems clearly and can tell you what mattered in hindsight.
Founders in your industry
Useful for suppliers, regulation, sales channels and which investors know the space.
Potential co-founders
Conversations are the first step in testing whether you'd work well together.
Mentors
Experienced operators who can give structured advice over several sessions.
Investors
A short, specific message can lead to a meeting, especially when your profile shows traction.
How to write a first message that gets a reply
- Say who you are and what your startup does in one sentence
- Explain why you're contacting this person in particular
- Ask one specific question, not "can I pick your brain?"
- Keep it short enough to read on a phone
- Make it easy to say yes, for example by suggesting a 20-minute call
How to chat with founders on Startupply
- 1
Set up your profile
Create your founder profile and add your startup, so people you message can see who you are and what you're building.
- 2
Find the right people
Browse the startup directory and public profiles of founders, co-founders, mentors and investors. Filter startups by industry, stage and country.
- 3
Start a conversation
Use Startupply's built-in messaging to reach out directly, without hunting for email addresses.
- 4
Take it further
Invite a potential co-founder to your startup, book mentorship sessions, or meet in person at events listed on Startupply.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an account to message founders?
Yes. Messaging is part of the Startupply app, so you sign in first. That also means everyone you talk to has a profile you can check.
Can I message investors directly?
You can reach out to investors who have a public profile on Startupply. Keep the first message short and explain why your startup fits what they invest in.
How do I avoid spam messages?
Messages come from people with Startupply profiles, so you can see who they are before replying. You choose which conversations to answer.