Should I ever cold email a partner directly?

Yes — after a serious research effort, and only with a specific hook that shows you know their thesis.

How many warm intro paths should I map?

3 paths per priority investor. Never rely on a single relationship.

Compare cold email and warm intro outreach to VCs — actual conversion rates, when cold works, and how to earn a warm intro.

Warm intros convert at 5-10x cold email. But a well-researched cold email still beats a lukewarm intro from someone the investor doesn't respect.

Intros from portfolio founders convert best (15-25%), followed by co-investors, then LPs. Intros from unknown contacts are worse than cold.

Specific, researched, references a recent thesis post or portfolio company. Under 120 words. 3-5% response rate is achievable at this quality bar.

Help portfolio founders first with no ask. Publish specific market takes. Share a customer intro before requesting one back.

Should I ever cold email a partner directly?: Yes — after a serious research effort, and only with a specific hook that shows you know their thesis.
How many warm intro paths should I map?: 3 paths per priority investor. Never rely on a single relationship.