Pitch guide
How to pitch Index Ventures
Index Ventures has backed 23 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 Index Ventures's actual focus. They invest in SaaS, Fintech, Consumer. If you're outside their thesis, save yourself the rejection.
2. Get a warm intro
Cold inbound to Index Ventures 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 Adyen, Dropbox, Discord — companies Index Ventures 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 Index Ventures 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 Index Ventures invest in?
Index Ventures focuses on SaaS, Fintech, Consumer. Geography: Europe, USA.
What stages does Index Ventures invest at?
Index Ventures has historically participated most in Series B, Series C, Series A rounds.
Where is Index Ventures based?
Index Ventures is headquartered in London, UK and was founded in 1996.
How do I contact Index Ventures?
The best way to reach Index Ventures is through a warm introduction from a portfolio founder or existing LP. You can also visit their website at https://www.indexventures.com for application details. They're also active on Twitter/X (@indexventures).
What are Index Ventures's most famous past investments?
Notable historical investments by Index Ventures include Adyen, Dropbox, Discord, Wise.