Khaled Talhouni, Managing Partner at Nuwa Capital, shares invaluable insights into how VCs assess founders and startups, particularly in the early stages. In part 2 of this 3-part series, Khaled discusses how and when to approach VCs, how to create FOMO, and the essential elements for a standout pitch.

Related Episodes:
How MENA VCs Evaluate Founders – Insights from Khaled Talhouni – E6 pt. 1: https://youtu.be/_LW4aiggEuw
Part 3, Lessons and insights in the VC space: Coming Soon!

Key takeaways:
- Founders should focus on understanding the problem, product roadmap, and market potential before approaching VCs.

- It's important to match your fundraising approach to the stage and focus of the VC.

- A warm intro from someone in the ecosystem, ideally a founder you’ve worked with, is the best way to get VCs' attention.

- If rejected, founders should send periodic updates and keep VCs in the loop on progress.

- To create FOMO, a strong product, right timing, and the right sector must align naturally.

- Raising capital should focus on what’s needed at the stage rather than over-optimizing for valuation.

- Having a clear and concise pitch deck that hits all key points is essential for early-stage fundraising.

- Demonstrating real traction or industry expertise often outweighs the deck’s aesthetics.

- Founders should avoid over-raising and focus on only the amount needed for the next milestone.

- Investors expect founders to be aligned with the goal of building businesses that are both impactful and profitable.

Chapters:
00:00 Khaled Talhouni, Managing Partner at Nuwa Capital (Part 2)
00:23 How do I know I'm ready to raise as a first time founder?
01:42 When is the right time to apply for VC?
02:55 Best advice for founders ready to apply?
04:57 Do VCs ever chase founders? Is there FOMO?
06:18 How long does it take to raise early stage VC?
08:42 What makes a great pitch deck?
12:40 Common founder mistakes when raising VC?
15:50 What should founders understand about term sheets?
17:38 "Investing isn't Altruism" – Founder misconceptions

Links:
What makes for a great founder? – https://www.nuwacapital.io/insights/what-makes-for-a-great-founder
Nuwa Capital Portfolio – https://www.nuwacapital.io/portfolio