Had an interesting convo today with a former GP about the “LP virality coefficient.”
At one fund they measured how many new LPs each existing LP brings via intros, and it came out to ~1.1.
Not huge, but already close to self-sustaining. And if you could push that toward 2, fundraising starts to feel less like a grind and more like a compounding system.
But it’s def not universal.
It works much better with HNWIs, operators, angels, smaller FOs - people who are socially active and comfortable making intros. It breaks down pretty quickly with institutions like endowments or pensions, where behavior is constrained and referrals are rare.
So it’s a pretty good lens for emerging managers (where LP base is more network-driven), but less useful for bigger / institutional funds.
There’s also a timing - like most of the value comes from asking at the right moment (right after a strong interaction or signal), and then following up deliberately. And it’s less about one ask, more about building it into the process.
Feels like many funds still run fundraising as a linear funnel, while a few are quietly turning it into a network loop.
🏆my adorable nephew qualified for 2026 business plan nationals, let’s help support his dream so he can go and compete! Any little bit helps! https://t.co/Ga5gYzFpLJ
My 8th grade nephew Silas (2025 National Champ) is defending his BPA title, and it’s a big deal for him and his Missoula Montana team. His hard work has paid off. Every little bit helps, and makes a difference. Let’s rally to give him this opportunity! https://t.co/WQHNVswOaY
@paigefinnn this report highlighted some new data that is important to share the breadth of the liquidity in the markets beyond the big names everyone already tracks. Well written and thorough. Thanks for the 2025 insights.
so excited to share our 2025 exits study is complete - sharing key insights below, but would highly recommend reading in full!
What it Takes (2025) covers
📈 45 new $1B+ tech exits in 2025
📈 5 exits break into the top 10
⏳ AI companies are seeing major compression in timeline to $1B+ outcomes
🌴california dominating with ~$290B total deal value
and our predictions as the market heats up...a trillion dollar 2026.