For #1, I get random emails now and then from various equity firms including VC. If your startup is listed on AngelList, Crunchbase, or other startup lists then

For #1, I get random emails now and then from various equity firms including VC. If your startup is listed on AngelList, Crunchbase, or other startup lists then you will likely get them. Or you are in the news for some reason like winning a competition. BTW I am not in SV and not well connected.