How One Email Shook the Startup Ecosystem
In the ever-hustling world of startups, credentials often speak louder than code. But what happens when someone flips the script? Enter Bhavye Khetan, a UC Berkeley grad who decided to test the system by becoming… well, fake.
Yes, you read that right.
He didn’t raise money. He didn’t build a product.
Instead, he crafted a cold email pretending to be a Stanford alum, ex-Palantir engineer, working on the next big thing in AI. The result? Out of 34 cold emails, 27 VCs responded positively.
Let that sink in.
Why This Went Viral: The Harsh Truth VCs Won’t Say Out Loud
So why did this story explode? Because it confirmed what many founders already suspect:
VCs are often drawn to buzzwords, not business models.
For years, founders have been told to focus on solving real problems, building MVPs, and bootstrapping with grit. But this experiment proved that just dropping high-status words like “Stanford,” “AI,” and “ex-unicorn” can open investor doors faster than an actual demo.
Real Talk: We’ve Seen This Before
If you’ve been part of the startup game long enough, this isn’t entirely new. You’ve probably met founders who raised big rounds with flashy pitch decks and no traction. It’s just that Bhavye’s bold move exposed it with data.
What This Means for Real Founders
If you’re a genuine founder grinding in the trenches, this story may sting. But it also offers valuable lessons:
1. Positioning Is Power
Don’t just build—package your story strategically. It’s not about faking it, but framing your background, traction, and vision in a way that catches attention.
2. Warm Intros Still Matter, But Cold Emails Work Too
Bhavye’s experiment proved that a well-written cold email can still work—especially if it hits the right notes. Not everyone has a warm intro, but everyone has email access.
3. Hype Sells, But Value Lasts
Sure, buzzwords might get you a call. But if you can’t back it up, the deal falls apart fast. Long-term funding comes from substance, not smoke.
What VCs Need to Reflect On
To the VCs reading this: what if the next “unicorn” founder doesn’t have a Stanford degree?
Bhavye’s experiment is a call to dig deeper, ask harder questions, and evaluate beyond surface signals.
👉 Pro tip: Create a more inclusive and rigorous filtering system. You might just catch the next VentureLinkUp 100Cr Club founder before your competitors do.
The Bottom Line: The Game Is Changing
Startups are evolving. VCs are adapting. And stories like this force everyone to look in the mirror. Authenticity, diligence, and storytelling are no longer just buzzwords — they’re survival tools.
Want More Stories Like This?
Check out the 100Cr Club blog for real startup journeys, deep dives, and practical insights on brand building and funding.
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