Pitch guide
How to pitch Accel
Accel has backed 29 of the startups in our index. Here's everything you need to know before reaching out.
Quick facts
- Type
- Sectors
- Based in
- Portfolio depth
- Website
- Twitter / X
The 4-step playbook
1. Confirm fit
Before spending a minute writing a cold email, make sure your startup matches Accel's actual focus. They invest in SaaS, Fintech, AI. If you're outside their thesis, save yourself the rejection.
2. Get a warm intro
Cold inbound to Accel 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. For inspiration, look at decks from Facebook, Slack, Atlassian — companies Accel backed early. 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 Accel 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 Accel invest in?
Accel focuses on SaaS, Fintech, AI.
What stages does Accel invest at?
Accel has historically participated most in Series B, Series A, Series C rounds.
Where is Accel based?
Accel is headquartered in Palo Alto, USA and was founded in 1983.
How do I contact Accel?
The best way to reach Accel is through a warm introduction from a portfolio founder or existing LP. You can also visit their website at https://www.accel.com for application details. They're also active on Twitter/X (@Accel).
What are Accel's most famous past investments?
Notable historical investments by Accel include Facebook, Slack, Atlassian, Dropbox, Spotify.