The First Raise Series
A free, six-part guide for first-time founders who are thinking about raising money for the first time.
Most first-time founders know their product far better than they know how fundraising works. They usually lack two things: a clear way to think about funding, and honest guidance on what to do next. This series is my attempt to supply both, in plain language and without hype.
Who it is for
Founders at the idea, prototype, or early-customer stage who are deciding whether and how to raise outside money.
What you will do
Each module explains one part of the process and ends with a short task. By the end you will have a one-page company summary, a clear set of numbers, a model of your ownership after a raise, and a folder of documents ready for investors.
Is Venture Funding Right for Your Company?
Before you pitch anyone, decide whether venture capital fits your business. A clear look at venture and its alternatives.
Know Your Numbers Before You Pitch
The handful of numbers every founder should be able to explain: cash, burn, runway, customer economics, and milestones.
What Investors Look For in an Early-Stage Company
Team, market, evidence, and structure: the four questions investors ask, and how to prepare honest answers.
Your First Instruments: SAFEs, Notes, and Priced Rounds
How the main ways of taking early investment differ, and what founders should model before signing.
Your Story and a One-Page Summary
How to explain your company clearly in one page, and the structure that makes investors want to read more.
Running a Fundraise: Process, Diligence, and Legal Basics
A practical overview of how a first raise actually runs, what investors will ask to see, and the legal care it requires.
What this is not
This is a free educational resource. It does not provide funding, investment advice, or legal advice, and I am not offering or soliciting any investment. It will not guarantee that anyone raises money. Its purpose is to help you understand the process so you can make better decisions and ask better questions of the professionals you hire.
Questions and suggestions
If something is unclear or you want a topic covered, send me a note. I use these questions to improve the series.