What Is Deal Flow Signal? A Guide for Investors

Deal flow signal is any data-driven indicator that surfaces a promising startup before traditional channels – warm intros, pitch decks, press – bring it to investors. The four main types are engineering signals (GitHub, 6-12 weeks lead time), hiring signals (job boards, 4-8 weeks), web traffic signals (4-6 weeks), and social signals (1-2 weeks). GitHub engineering activity provides the longest lead time and is the hardest to game, making it the most reliable early deal flow signal for venture investors.