How to Find and Reach Out to Family Offices (Without Feeling Awkward)

By now, you know why family offices are a valuable source of capital—and how they think. But most founders still get stuck on the next step:

How do you actually find them?And once you do, how do you approach them without sounding like you’re just asking for money?

Let me walk you through how I’ve seen this done—successfully—by the entrepreneurs I work with and advise.

First, Know What You’re Looking For

A “family office” is not one-size-fits-all. Some are:

• Operationally active and invest directly in startups.

• Passive allocators who only invest through funds.

• Thematic or mission-driven, focusing on sectors like health, sustainability, or tech.

• Anonymous, and you’ll never find their name in a public database.

Before you start reaching out, ask yourself:

• What kind of investor do I want at the table?

• Do I want someone with domain knowledge?

• Would I benefit from a strategic investor or just capital?

• Do I need a lead investor—or a co-investor who follows?

Clarity here helps you target the right people and tailor your message.

Where to Find Family Offices

Here’s what works in the real world—not theory.

1. Leverage Warm Intros

Still the #1 way deals get done.

• Ask your existing investors, lawyers, or bankers: “Do you know any families that invest in biotech or early-stage health?”

• Founders often forget that their advisors or even accountants may have ties to private wealth clients.

2. Use “Anchor Institutions”

Many families prefer to follow credible institutions.

• If you already have a grant or seed round backed by a university fund, healthcare system, or top-tier VC, highlight it.

• Family offices often co-invest with groups they trust. If you’re aligned with one of those, it’s easier to bring others in.

3. Industry Conferences & Private Networks

You won’t find them at your typical Demo Day—but you will find them at:

• Philanthropy forums

• Health or climate impact events

• Family office investment summits

• Events hosted by groups like TIGER 21, Campden Wealth, or PFI

These events are rarely advertised. You get in by being referred—or simply asking your network who’s attending.

4. Online Databases & Research Tools

Use these sparingly, and only for targeting—not mass outreach.

• PitchBook (if you have access)

• Family Office Exchange (FOX)

• Affinity or RelSci (for relationship mapping)

• LinkedIn with advanced filters

Pro Tip: When you spot a wealthy family foundation active in a related cause (e.g., cancer, rare disease, education), look up who’s on their board or staff. That often points you to the family office.

How to Reach Out (Without Sounding Like a Pitch Deck)

You’ve identified them. Now what?

Don’t lead with the deck. Lead with a conversation.

If you get a warm intro:

• Keep your first message short and relational:“Hi [Name], I work with early-stage founders tackling [problem]. I’ve heard your family has backed impactful companies in this space. Would love to introduce myself and share what we’re building.”

If you’re cold-emailing:

• Reference shared values, prior investments, or a mutual connection.

• Be humble. Offer insight, not a sales pitch.

Example cold outreach email:

Subject: Tackling [Health Problem] — Would love your thoughts Hi [Name],I came across your family foundation’s work on [specific program], and it resonated deeply. I’m working on a biotech company tackling [brief, compelling problem statement]. Would love to get your perspective if you have time in the next few weeks. Best,[Your Name]

One More Tip: Build the Relationship Before You Need the Check

Family offices move slower than VCs—but they can be more loyal once they’re in. That’s why it’s worth planting seeds even if you’re not fundraising right now.

• Invite them to your science day, product demo, or patient roundtable.

• Send updates—not just asks.

• Ask for advice on strategy, not money. (Ironically, this often leads to money.)

The best relationships don’t start with “Here’s my deck.”They start with “I thought this might be relevant to your work.”