Building Communities: It's All That Matters

#98 Angelinvesting.it - From idea to Series A - Weekly Newsletter

3 minutes to reflect

I was in Ibiza celebrating my birthday this September when I had a realization. After living in London for over 10 years, what I miss most about Italy isn't the food or weather (though let's be honest, both are pretty amazing).

It's that beautiful spontaneity of leaving work after a productive day and pulling together a last-minute aperitif with friends. London is quite big, and everything needs planning - try getting your friends from East and West London in the same pub without a two-week notice!

The solution hit me in the form of a WhatsApp community chat I created called "Serendipity in London." I threw in all my friends and acquaintances based in London, and now whenever I feel like grabbing a pint after work or spot a cool event I want to check out, I just drop it in the chat. Whoever's free can join - no pressure, no commitment.

Here's the trick that makes it work: I'm the only one who can post. Everyone else can react with emojis, slide into my DMs, completely ignore the message (we've all been there), or just show up at whatever spot I've mentioned. Simple as that.

And let me tell you - it's working like a charm. We're now over 100 members strong, and I've put together 6-7 spontaneous gatherings where 8-9 lovely humans from the chat actually showed up. Sometimes it's drinks, sometimes it's a random art exhibition I stumbled upon.

But here's what really blows my mind - it's turned into this incredible networking thing. Every time I'm at an event and meet someone interesting based in London, I share this story. Their eyes light up, and next thing you know, they're practically begging to be added to the chat.

People need to feel part of something, whether it's big or small, today more than ever. I'm lucky enough to have flexibility with my time, and honestly, organizing these little moments of connection feels completely natural to me. It's fun, it's authentic, and the rewards? They come in layers I never expected - new friendships, professional connections, and most importantly, bringing back that spark of spontaneity I thought I'd left behind in Italy.

2 resources to advance to pro

Making 43$ millions a year with OnlyFans

Talking about doing something authentic and rewarding, this OnlyFans celebrity is making more money than NBA stars! Check the video

Contrary to YC wisdom - Entry price in VC matters

Uncomfortable truth (math) about early stage Venture Investing If you invest at $5M valuation and the company becomes a Unicorn with 50% further dilution, you have 100X If you invest at a $20M valuation and the company becomes a Unicorn with 50% further dilution, you have 25X. Very hard to make the VC fund math work when your Unicorns only return 25X. Contrary to YC, entry prices matter. Alot.

1 reason to smile

Quotes to ponder…

“A calm mind, a fit body, and a house full of love. These things cannot be bought. They must be earned.” — @naval

Ciao,

Simone