Whenever I send a "cold" email trying to illicit some type of response that is good for me, I like to add some product/company thoughts and ideas. First, it shows that you've spent a bit of time thinking about the company. Second, you've delivered value to that person and create a situation where the person feels they SHOULD respond to you.
I don't disagree. Obviously a start up that's raised an A round will be a very different situation than a couple of founders who are trying to put together a seed. I guess I'm trying to figure out a way to break into a start up I'm passionate about without a non-technical background. Maybe an internship is the best way to approach it? Though I am in my mid-20s...sounds a bit weird.