The absolute best way to raise money (to have leverage in negotiations) is to build a great company. Talking to investors doesn't get you there. While there is

The absolute best way to raise money (to have leverage in negotiations) is to build a great company. Talking to investors doesn't get you there. While there is a benefit to having relationships and them seeing you execute over time, it's easier to get a meeting if you have great numbers. How many VCs wouldn't take a meeting if your first sentence is, "We have a $150k in MRR and are growing at 20% month-over-month"? Any? I don't know. Build your company.