Pitch guide
How to pitch Menlo Ventures
Menlo Ventures has backed 2 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 Menlo Ventures's actual focus. If you're outside their thesis, save yourself the rejection.
2. Get a warm intro
Cold inbound to Menlo 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 Uber, Roku, Siri — companies Menlo 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 Menlo 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 Menlo Ventures invest in?
Based on their portfolio in our index, Menlo Ventures most often invests in AI.
What stages does Menlo Ventures invest at?
Menlo Ventures has historically participated most in Series B rounds.
Where is Menlo Ventures based?
Menlo Ventures is headquartered in Menlo Park, USA and was founded in 1976.
How do I contact Menlo Ventures?
The best way to reach Menlo Ventures is through a warm introduction from a portfolio founder or existing LP. You can also visit their website at https://www.menlovc.com for application details. They're also active on Twitter/X (@MenloVentures).
What are Menlo Ventures's most famous past investments?
Notable historical investments by Menlo Ventures include Uber, Roku, Siri, Dropcam.