Build bridges, not just decks: investors invest in people.

Embarking on the journey of fundraising can be daunting for any startup, but getting started earlier, even if things feel rough around the edges, may be one of the best decisions you make. Gerben Peeters, co-founder and CEO of Mappalink, and Emiel Cockx, founder and CEO of Genvision, share their insights on building the perfect pitch and navigating the investment world with resilience and authenticity.

For Gerben, it all starts with daring to think big and pitching sooner than feels comfortable. "Dare to think big and pitch sooner to funds—even those you think won’t be interested. It’s incredibly valuable to put yourself out there." This advice aligns closely with Emiel's approach, who advocates for casting a wide net from the start. Emiel explains, "In Belgium, I see founders often speaking to just a few VCs or angel investors. When I'm fundraising, I’m talking to literally 150 different investors. By doing this, I learned what resonates and what doesn’t - each pitch teaches you something."

Reflecting on his journey, Gerben shares that crafting a solid pitch deck took months of iteration. He remembers the first version he felt was “ready” but acknowledges that it still needed refining. "In the beginning, you don’t really have your idea sharp enough to explain it to others. But as soon as you’re pitching to people who could actually invest, it’s a different level of feedback.” Emiel adds that while a pitch deck is valuable, he prefers not to rely on it too heavily during conversations. "I rarely use my pitch deck in actual pitches. People connect better when there’s eye contact, not just a screen between us. It’s about building a story together, not just flipping through slides."

Both founders emphasize the importance of listening and adapting. For Emiel, every interaction provides insight. “You learn what’s important to investors by pitching over and over. I observe their reactions, respond to questions, and adjust my story accordingly. It’s a gradual refinement.” This hands-on practice, week after week for four months straight, ultimately shaped his approach. Gerben echoes this, noting that seeking honest feedback and identifying potential "red flags" are crucial steps. “After a pitch, ask them not only if they have questions but also, ‘What are your red flags?’ Knowing what worries potential investors could save weeks or even months by allowing you to address these issues upfront in your next pitch.”

Finally, Emiel points out that what truly attracts investors is not a perfect deck or flashy technology. "Investors aren’t just looking at spreadsheets. They’re evaluating the founders, the problem, and the market potential. You could have the coolest tech, but if there isn’t chemistry with the founders, it doesn’t matter. They invest in people who they believe can make a real impact.” This human connection, for both founders, is the backbone of a compelling pitch.

So, start pitching early, aim high, and don’t be afraid to have real conversations. Fundraising isn’t just about presenting numbers - it’s about showing investors who you are, what drives you, and why your startup is worth believing in.

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