Pitch guide
How to pitch a16z
a16z has backed 21 of the startups in our index. Here's everything you need to know before reaching out.
Quick facts
- Sectors
- Portfolio depth
The 4-step playbook
1. Confirm fit
Before spending a minute writing a cold email, make sure your startup matches a16z's actual focus. If you're outside their thesis, save yourself the rejection.
2. Get a warm intro
Cold inbound to a16z works occasionally but the conversion is brutal. Find a mutual connection: a portfolio founder, an LP, or a fellow VC who's co-invested with them. LinkedIn's "see who else they're connected with" view is your best tool. If you have no mutuals, build relationships in their community first — comment thoughtfully on their content, attend events they speak at, get on their radar.
3. Tight 10-slide deck + clear ask
Your deck should be 10–12 slides covering: problem, solution, why now, market, traction, business model, team, competition, what you're raising, and the ask. See our pitch deck archive for slide-by-slide breakdowns of famous decks.
4. Follow up like a pro
If they pass, ask for one piece of honest feedback and one referral. Don't argue. Don't beg. Investors talk — and the founders who handle no's gracefully are the ones they remember when their next round opens. Keep a16z on your update list for 6-month progress mails even after a pass; many funded deals come from second tries.
Frequently asked questions
What does a16z invest in?
Based on their portfolio in our index, a16z most often invests in AI, Dev Tools, SaaS.
What stages does a16z invest at?
a16z has historically participated most in Series B, Series C, Series A rounds.
Where is a16z based?
Location for a16z is not publicly disclosed in our index.
How do I contact a16z?
The best way to reach a16z is through a warm introduction from a portfolio founder. Cold inbound to VC firms typically has a low response rate — try to find a mutual connection on LinkedIn first.