How can you effectively source deals in the fintech industry?

To effectively source deals in the fintech industry, you can start by building a strong network of industry professionals and attending relevant conferences and events. Utilize online platforms and forums to connect with potential partners and investors. Stay updated on industry news and trends to identify emerging opportunities. Collaborate with fintech accelerators and incubators to access a pool of startups. Cultivate relationships with venture capital firms and angel investors who specialize in fintech. Leverage social media and online platforms to showcase your expertise and attract potential deals. Conduct thorough due diligence to evaluate the viability and potential of each opportunity.

I actually think that focusing on vertical areas (i.e. specific use cases) is a very 2010 approach. Between SaaS, APIs, Generative AI, Blockchain, it's the technology-enabled business models that I really look for. For instance, Generative AI can be applied to a number of use cased (from identity management / fraud prevention, to financial modeling, to thematic funds for asset managers, to investment advice). But it's the business model that makes the difference: high value "jobs to be done" that - thanks to Generative AI - can leverage software near-zero-cost scalability. So: my approach is technology -> business models -> use cases.

To find the best Fintech deals: - Attend fintech events - Join fintech online groups - Connect with startup accelerators and Fintech hubs - Use startup databases like Pitchbook (they have great industry reports) You have to be where the founders are, so I recommend spending time in leading Fintech hubs.

Addend events and conferenced and network with the CEO's of fintech companies. There is no better way than face-to-face interaction to get to know the right people and to make connections. Pick up their brochures, cards and other collateral material.

In the fintech industry, sourcing deals effectively involves building a strong network, leveraging industry events, and engaging with venture capitalists. Additionally, utilizing online platforms such as AngelList and Crunchbase can help identify potential investment opportunities. Collaborating with incubators and accelerators can also provide access to promising fintech startups. Building relationships with industry insiders and actively seeking referrals can further enhance deal sourcing efforts in the fintech sector.

Some key appoaches: * Knowing of and staying connected with the Fintech focussed accelerators and incubators. * Working on co-investment opportunities with other fintech investors. * Having relations with progressive banking and financial institutions many run their own accelerators Standard Chartered fintech bridge is an example. * Work on creating your visibility as a Fintech expert via content and podcasts. * Attend focussed conferences, Singapore Fintech Festival, Dubai Fintech Summit, Abu Dhabi Fintech week, etc.

Building a strong network within the fintech industry is key to uncovering exceptional investment opportunities. Through my work, I've learned the importance of cultivating relationships across the fintech ecosystem. Engaging actively in industry events, contributing thought leadership through various media, and supporting emerging entrepreneurs not only enhances my understanding of the latest innovations but also positions me as a trusted partner in the sector. Partnering with incubators and accelerators further deepens this network, allowing me to access a pipeline of startups that are not just technologically advanced but also committed to driving positive social change.

Attending fintech conferences, events, and meetups is crucial for meeting founders and investors. Having a strong professional brand and network in the fintech community will give you access to more deal flow before others.

1. Active Engagement: Focus on active participation in the fintech community through events and social media to build meaningful relationships. 2. Thought Leadership: Contribute to the fintech dialogue by writing insightful content, and attracting quality referrals. 3. Strategic Partnerships and Mentorship: Form partnerships with accelerators and provide mentorship, enhancing their network and access to promising deal flows.

Strong network is key to outperformance. Not just having one, but growing it and making relationships. It takes work to do the business development of sourcing deals and the best way is to cast your net wide with lots of people who are working in and/or around the fintech industry.

Leveraging data and cutting-edge tools alongside a robust network can significantly enhance deal sourcing in fintech. My experience has taught me the power of combining technology with personal insight. Utilizing databases and analytics platforms enables us to unearth promising fintech startups that align with our investment criteria and social impact goals. While these tools provide a broad view of the market and track potential opportunities, the final investment decision always benefits from a blend of data-driven analysis and intuitive judgment. This holistic approach ensures we're not just investing in fintech innovation but are also contributing to meaningful societal change.

"Finding" the list of prospect companies is not the challenging part. There are hundreds of list and databases to explore. The tough part is staying on-top of every interesting move these companies make. In this scenario, you must leverage dynamic data to keep track of growing companies. Tools like Dealigence enable you to stay on top of your pipeline with customized alerts and 'always on' dealflow monitoring.

Leverage fintech databases, AI-powered platforms like Cyndx1 , and tools to identify companies projected to raise capital or exit. These can uncover non-obvious targets and save time over manual searches.

The best way to follow-up with precision and reduce your caffeine poisoning from too many ineffective catch-ups is to utilize dynamic data. Follow up with a company when a meaningful milestone is achieved (or about to be). That way you won't find yourself meeting a company half a dozen times just to ultimately say no.

In the competitive fintech landscape, proactivity and creativity in engaging with founders are paramount. Through my work, I've learned the importance of building relationships that go beyond the transactional. Personalized outreach, offering constructive feedback, relevant introductions, or resources, significantly enhances our interactions. Inviting founders to participate in webinars or industry events not only fosters warm connections but also demonstrates our commitment to their growth. Embracing innovative channels like video calls or social media for communication ensures we stay connected in ways that resonate with today's digital-first entrepreneurs.

Many fintech deals, especially early stage, originate from warm introductions. Actively reach out to startups that fit your criteria through LinkedIn, email, etc. Think outside the box about where potential targets might be.

Persistence pays off. Follow up regularly with founders to build relationships over time. Share relevant insights and make introductions to potential partners or customers.

Founders speak with other founders. You'll get plenty of insights on up-and-coming fintech companies from other fintech founders. You can also network with other VCs in the fintech space, especially fintech specialized VC who might want to share deal flow depending on the value you can bring to the deal.

Analyze what works and doesn't work in your deal sourcing process. Continuously refine your focus areas, outreach messaging, and data sources to increase your chances of sourcing the right deals.

Attend fintech conferences and events Leverage your network for introductions Partner with accelerators and universities Monitor fintech publications and blogs Utilize AI and data-driven tools Build relationships with VCs focused on fintech