Ask YC: Your VCs &/or Angel Investors of choice
Which VCs or Angel Investors will you go to if you are looking for funding for your start-up? (offer a list of +5)
Obviously, you try to get money from top tier firms and people. However, everyone's personal list of connections is different - resulting in different firms taking precedence.
If you are trying to raise money use your network. See who can refer you and at the same time back up your reputation.