Fundraising Insights That Actually Work
Learning to raise capital isn't about memorising pitch templates. It's about understanding what investors really care about, how to tell your story without the fluff, and when to walk away from a bad deal. We've spent years watching startups succeed and stumble—here's what we've learned along the way.
Getting the Basics Right
Most founders overcomplicate fundraising. They think they need a 40-slide deck and a perfectly polished prototype before approaching anyone. But that's not how early conversations happen.
The truth? Investors want to see three things clearly: a problem worth solving, a team that can solve it, and some evidence you're moving in the right direction. Everything else is noise.
Start with understanding your numbers cold. Not just revenue projections—though those matter—but unit economics, customer acquisition costs, and burn rate. If you can't explain these in under two minutes, you're not ready yet.
And here's something nobody talks about enough: timing matters more than most founders realise. Raising when you don't absolutely need the money gives you leverage. Raising when you're three months from running out? That's when you accept terms you'll regret later.
Hamish Galbraith
Early-Stage Investment Advisor
I've reviewed hundreds of pitches. The ones that stand out aren't the flashiest—they're the ones where the founder knows exactly what they're building and why it matters. Clarity beats complexity every single time.
Building Your Pitch Without the Nonsense
Tell a Story, Not a Sales Pitch
Your pitch isn't a features list. It's the story of why this problem kept you up at night until you decided to fix it. Make it personal. Make it real. Investors back people, not just ideas.
Know Your Audience Better Than They Know Themselves
Research who you're pitching to before you walk in the room. What sectors do they focus on? What stage do they typically invest at? What companies in their portfolio are similar to yours? This isn't just homework—it shows respect for their time.
Practice Until It Feels Natural
You should be able to deliver your pitch in three different formats: two minutes in a lift, ten minutes in a first meeting, and thirty minutes in a deep dive. Each version needs different details but the same core message. And yeah, practice with real people who'll give you honest feedback.
Building Real Relationships
Fundraising isn't a transaction—it's the start of a long-term partnership. The investors you bring on board will be around for years, so choose carefully.
Ingrid Thorsen
Investor Relations Strategist
I work with founders preparing for their first serious raise, and the biggest mistake I see is treating investors like ATMs. Good investors bring more than money—they bring connections, advice, and credibility.
Start building relationships six months before you need to raise. Attend events, ask for advice, share updates on your progress. When it's time to officially raise, you're not a stranger asking for a favour—you're someone they already believe in.
And remember: not every investor is right for your business. Look for alignment on vision, timeline, and values. A bad investor relationship can damage your company more than running lean for another quarter.