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<p><br></p><p>Ask any founder what they dread most, and fundraising will likely top the list. Many view it as a frustrating process that takes time away from "real" work. But here’s the reality: it's not that fundraising is a distraction. </p><blockquote><p>It's that fundraising is the ultimate sales test. If you’re struggling to articulate your value proposition, it’s a sign that your messaging might not resonate with customers either.</p></blockquote><p><strong>The best way to secure funding is to give investors exactly what they need to make a decision. Customers are no different</strong>—they won’t dig through unclear details to understand your value. Refining your pitch is more than a fundraising skill; it’s foundational to building a business that scales.</p><h3>&nbsp;<br>1. If You Can’t Sell to VCs, You May Struggle to Sell to Customers</h3><p><br>Selling your startup to investors is no different from selling your product to customers. Both require you to:</p><ul><li>Identify the problem you’re solving.</li><li>Explain how your solution uniquely addresses that problem.</li><li>Build trust and credibility.<br></li></ul><p>If investors find your pitch unclear or unconvincing, how will you succeed with customers who are even less invested in understanding your technology?</p><p> Fundraising forces you to refine your messaging, simplify your value proposition, and focus on outcomes instead of jargon—all essential skills for attracting and retaining customers.</p><h3>&nbsp;<br>2. Funding as a Strategic Market Test</h3><p>The questions investors ask often reflect the concerns your target market will have:</p><ul><li>"How are you different from competitors?"</li><li>"What do you charge?"</li><li>"What problem do you solve, and is it worth paying for?"</li></ul><p><br>If you’re struggling to answer these questions during a pitch, you’ll likely face the same challenges in a sales call. While investors may not always be right, their feedback often highlights gaps in your thinking. They’ve seen countless startups and recognize patterns you may not. Consider their feedback carefully—it’s an opportunity to strengthen your business model and refine your approach.</p><h3>&nbsp;<br>3. Clarity Trumps Complexity</h3><p><br>Founders often feel compelled to say too much, thinking their product won’t speak for itself. This leads to overcrowded pitches and websites that overwhelm rather than inform.</p><p>Investors and customers care about impact, not intricate details. Focus on a one-liner and three core selling points—make them clear and compelling. If you can’t distill your ideas into simple terms, it’s not their misunderstanding—it’s your lack of clarity. Closing that gap isn’t optional; it’s essential.</p><h3>&nbsp;<br>4. Repetition Builds Mastery</h3><p><br>Every pitch is an opportunity to refine your story. Think of VCs as a captive audience, required to ask tough questions and care about your startup—even if only for 30 minutes. With practice, you’ll learn what resonates and what doesn’t, enabling you to adapt quickly. This skill doesn’t just improve your fundraising—it strengthens your communication, leadership, and sales abilities.<br></p><h2>&nbsp;<br>The "Waste of Time" Mindset May Be a Red Flag</h2><p><br>Viewing fundraising as a distraction often masks discomfort with scrutiny. If you can’t handle tough questions now, how will you address your toughest critics—your customers?</p><p>The best founders know when to pause fundraising and focus on building or pivoting. Continuing to pitch an underperforming product is as counterproductive as pushing it onto reluctant customers.</p><h2>&nbsp;<br>Final Thoughts</h2><p><br>Fundraising is more than securing capital; it’s a strategic exercise in sharpening your value proposition. The tough questions VCs ask aren’t obstacles—they’re opportunities to refine your messaging and strategy. Use those insights to build clarity and trust with your customers, and you’ll create a business that resonates and scales.</p><blockquote><p>If I had a dollar for every deep-tech founder who said, "You don’t get it because you’re not technical," I’d have a penthouse next to Elon Musk on Mars.</p></blockquote><p><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><p>----------------------------------------------</p><p><em><a data-mce-href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/lane-litz/" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/lane-litz/" title="Lane's LinkedIn" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lane Litz</a> is a proven startup founder, operator, and venture capitalist with a track record of building, scaling, and investing in high-potential startups. As employee #6 at VIPKID, she helped grow the company to a $3B valuation. Later, as the CEO and Co-founder of Speakia, she navigated challenging market conditions to lead the startup to acquisition. Her time in venture capital &nbsp;gave her a front-row seat to the systemic flaws in traditional VC, inspiring her to found Founder VC. Now, Lane is reshaping the venture landscape with a founder-first approach, focusing on sustainable investments that deliver measurable value for both founders and investors.</em></p><p><br></p><p><br>&nbsp;</p>

Why Fundraising Is Not a Waste of Time

<p><br></p><h2>Objective</h2><p><br>Learn how to structure a compelling B2B SaaS pitch deck that effectively communicates your startup's value proposition, market opportunity, and scalability to VCs.</p><h2>Context</h2><p><br>Presenting your startup to investors is about more than just facts and figures; it’s about telling a story that inspires confidence in your team, solution, and market potential.&nbsp; </p><blockquote><p>B2B SaaS founders must drive home how their product is unique, how it addresses customer pain points, and how their team can successfully sell—and upsell—to the right audience.</p></blockquote><p>In this example, we use SaaSify—a hypothetical startup focused on workflow automation for manufacturers—as a guide to structuring your pitch deck.</p><p>Remember, your pitch deck should have no more than 12 slides to effectively communicate your message within the standard 8-minute pitch window. By following these steps, you’ll create a deck that highlights the critical elements investors need to see.</p><h2>&nbsp;Core Concepts</h2><h3><br>1. The Problem</h3><p><br>Investors want to know the problem you're solving, why it matters, and the scale of its impact. Be specific and back your claims with data.</p><p>Example: Manufacturers face:</p><ul><li>Costly Production Delays: $50B+ lost annually.</li><li>Visibility Challenges: Supply chain complexity impacts efficiency.<br></li></ul><h3>2. Your Solution</h3><p><br>Clearly define how your product addresses the problem. Focus on outcomes, not just features.</p><p>Example: SaaSify automates workflows and integrates seamlessly with existing tools:</p><ul><li>Ease of Use: Reduces manual errors by 40%.</li><li>Operational Efficiency: Cuts operational costs by 25%.</li><li>Scalability: Provides real-time supply chain insights for demand scaling.</li></ul><h3><br>3. Market Opportunity</h3><p><br>Show the size of the opportunity and where your startup fits. Break it into Total Addressable Market (TAM) and Serviceable Addressable Market (SAM).</p><p>Example:</p><ul><li>TAM: $25B globally for workflow automation in manufacturing, focusing on automotive and heavy equipment sectors.</li><li>SAM: $5B in North America and Europe, targeting mid-size to enterprise manufacturers.<br></li></ul><h3>4. Product Overview</h3><p><br>Highlight your product’s key features and unique selling points. Include visuals to make it tangible.</p><p>Example:</p><p>Key Features:</p><ul><li>Drag-and-drop workflow builder.</li><li>Pre-built integrations for 50+ tools.</li><li>Real-time analytics dashboard.</li></ul><p><em>Visuals: Include a screenshot of SaaSify’s dashboard and workflow builder.</em><br></p><h3>5. Traction</h3><p><br>Demonstrate your startup’s momentum with specific metrics. Focus on growth, adoption, and market validation.</p><p>Example:</p><ul><li>5,000 Active Users: Predominantly in automotive manufacturing and heavy equipment sectors.</li><li>20% MoM Revenue Growth.</li><li>$1M ARR: Achieved within 18 months.</li><li>25% of Users Purchasing Add-Ons: Driving additional revenue through advanced analytics and integrations.</li></ul><h3>6. Business Model</h3><p><br>Outline how your company generates revenue and its scalability. Keep it simple and focused.</p><p>Example:</p><ul><li>SaaS Subscription: $99/month per user.</li><li>Premium Add-Ons: Advanced analytics and integrations.<br></li></ul><h3>7. Competitive Landscape</h3><p><br>Identify competitors and articulate your competitive edge.</p><p>Example:</p><p>Competitors: Zapier, Airtable, and Trello dominate general workflow tools but fail to address supply chain complexities in manufacturing.<br></p><p>SaaSify’s Edge:</p><ul><li>Affordable Pricing: $99/month per user.<br></li><li>Proprietary AI-Driven Insights Engine: Predicts churn and automates outreach.</li><li>Tailored for enterprise-grade manufacturing needs.<br></li></ul><h3>8. The Team</h3><p><br>Showcase startup-relevant successes and expertise.&nbsp;</p><p>Example:</p><ul><li>Alex Doe (Founder &amp; CEO): Scaled a SaaS startup from $0 to $20M ARR; acquired.</li><li>Jamie Smith (CTO): Ex-CTO of TechCorp, scaling its platform to $50M ARR.</li><li>Taylor Green (Head of Sales): Grew ScaleIt SaaS revenue from $1M to $15M ARR; closed enterprise-level deals.<br></li></ul><h2>Final Takeaway</h2><p><br>Your pitch deck is your startup’s first impression. In a saturated B2B SaaS market, emphasize what makes your product unique, how it addresses specific customer pain points, and why your team can successfully sell—and upsell—to the right audience. Highlight metrics that prove your ability to stand out and scale effectively in a competitive landscape.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>----------------------------------</p><p>Tags: Fundraising, B2B SaaS, Pitch Deck</p><p><em>This article follows the Founder VC Virtual Incubator's standardized format to ensure clarity, actionability, and professionalism:</em></p><table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" border="1" data-mce-style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Title</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">A clear and engaging title that sets the focus.</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Objective</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;"><p>Defines what the reader will learn or accomplish.</p></td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Contex</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">A relatable introduction or case study providing real-world relevance.<br></td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Core Concepts</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Structured, numbered sections with actionable insights for readers.</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Case Study (Optional)</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;"><p>Real-world examples that illustrate key takeaways.</p></td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Final Takeaway</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;"><p>&nbsp;A reinforced key message designed for practical application.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><p><em>This format ensures a professional and consistent reading experience, with actionable insights founders can immediately implement.</em></p><p><br></p>

B2B SaaS Pitch Deck Template

<p><br></p><h2>Objective:</h2><p>Create a concise, compelling pitch deck that gets you to the next meeting.</p><h2><br data-mce-bogus="1"></h2><h2>Context:</h2><p>Fundraising is hard, and most startups fail to secure venture capital. If you can’t sell your vision to a VC, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to sell it to customers. VCs look for clarity, confidence, and a well-structured narrative. You have 30 seconds to capture their attention when they open your deck. First impressions are everything.&nbsp;</p><h2>&nbsp;<br>Core Concepts:</h2><h3>1. Preparation: Set the Stage for Success</h3><p>Know Your Audience: Research the fund’s investment thesis, portfolio, and preferences.</p><p>Write Before You Design: Nail down your narrative before touching slides. The story drives the deck.</p><p>Get a Warm Intro: Skip cold submissions. A trusted introduction is essential. VCs often rely on their network to filter quality opportunities. If you can’t get a warm intro, you’re starting at a disadvantage.</p><h3><br>2. Keep It Simple: Clarity Wins</h3><p>Stick to the Script: VCs see thousands of pitch decks annually and rely on pattern matching to identify key information quickly. Keep to the expected format and flow—deviating makes it harder for them to process.</p><p>Own the Task at Hand: If someone doesn’t understand your deck, it’s because you’re unclear. It’s your job to explain your startup, not their job to figure it out.</p><p>Slide Limit: Stick to 10-12 slides.</p><p>Minimal Text: Use 20-30 words per slide max.</p><p>Show, Don’t Tell: Use visuals and data to make your points.<br></p><h3>3. Essential Slides: The 9 Must-Haves</h3><table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; float: left;" data-mce-selected="1" data-mce-style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Title Slide</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Name, logo, tagline, and contact details.Problem: Define the pain point and why it matters.</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Solution</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Explain how your product or service addresses the problem.</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Market Opportunity</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Quantify the market size and growth potential.</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Product Overview</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Highlight key features with visuals or a demo link.</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Traction</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Show proof of demand with metrics like revenue or user growth.</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Business Model</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Explain how you make money and your go-to-market plan.</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Competitive Landscape</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Position yourself against competitors and highlight your edge.</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Team</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Emphasize relevant expertise and experience.</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Ask</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Clearly state how much you’re raising, why, and the milestones you’ll hit.</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br></p><h3><br></h3><h3><br></h3><h3><br></h3><h3><br></h3><h3><br></h3><h3><br></h3><h3><br></h3><h3>4. Design: Polished, Not Flashy</h3><ul><li>Use modern, professional templates (Canva works well).</li><li>Stick to clean layouts with consistent fonts and colors.</li><li>Avoid clutter. White space makes content digestible.</li><li>If your pitch deck looks sloppy or overly complicated, it signals to investors that you lack attention to detail.</li></ul><blockquote><p>Nobody will trust you with their money if you can’t produce a professional-looking deck.<br>&nbsp;</p></blockquote><h3>Rehearse and Refine</h3><ul><li>Keep your pitch under 8 minutes.</li><li>Prepare for common questions investors will ask.</li><li>If you’re struggling, write your narrative first. It’s hardest to design a slide when you don’t know what you want to say.</li><li>Get feedback from your closest founder friends and advisors. You want hard feedback from low-cost people before hitting high-opportunity-cost VCs.<br>&nbsp;</li></ul><h2><br></h2><h2>Final Takeaway:</h2><p>A strong pitch deck is about alignment—showing investors how your startup fits their goals. VCs review thousands of decks a year but only invest in a handful. They rely on pattern matching and quick assessments to decide whether to engage. If your deck is confusing, cluttered, or poorly designed, you’re signaling that you don’t know what you’re doing. Pitch decks aren’t just a formality—they’re about sales. If you can sell to customers, you can sell to VCs. Clarity and professionalism show you’re ready for the next step. The goal isn’t to say everything—it’s to stand out and get the next meeting.</p><p><br></p><h3>Explore More Funraising Resources:</h3><p><a title="How I Deal With Rejection as Someone Who Gets Rejected Most of The Time" href="https://foundervc.org/blog/how-i-deal-with-rejection-as-someone-who-gets-rejected-most-of-the-time" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-href="https://foundervc.org/blog/how-i-deal-with-rejection-as-someone-who-gets-rejected-most-of-the-time">How I Deal With Rejection as Someone Who Gets Rejected Most of The Time</a></p><p><a title="Avoiding the Startup Graveyard- How Not to Die" href="https://foundervc.org/blog/avoiding-the-startup-graveyard" data-mce-href="https://foundervc.org/blog/avoiding-the-startup-graveyard">Avoiding the Startup Graveyard- How Not to Die</a></p><p><a title="The Unwritten Rules of Fundraising" href="https://foundervc.org/blog/the-unwritten-rules-of-fundraising" data-mce-href="https://foundervc.org/blog/the-unwritten-rules-of-fundraising" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Unwritten Rules of Fundraising</a></p><p><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><p><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><p>--------------------------------</p><p>Tags: Fundraising, Venture Capital, Seed, How to Raise Money</p><p><em>This article follows the Founder VC Virtual Incubator's standardized format to ensure clarity, actionability, and professionalism:</em></p><table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" border="1" data-mce-style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Title</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">A clear and engaging title that sets the focus.</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Objective</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Defines what the reader will learn or accomplish.</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Contex</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">A relatable introduction or case study providing real-world relevance.</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Core Concepts</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Structured, numbered sections with actionable insights for readers.</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Case Study (Optional)</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Real-world examples that illustrate key takeaways.</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Final Takeaway</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">A reinforced key message designed for practical application.<br></td></tr></tbody></table><p><em>This format ensures a professional and consistent reading experience, with actionable insights founders can immediately implement.</em></p><p><br></p><p><br>&nbsp;</p>

Pitch Deck 101: The Essentials

<p><br></p><h3>Objective:</h3><p>Understand how to navigate the fundraising process, build meaningful connections, and meet investor expectations while maintaining professionalism and persistence.</p><h3>Context:</h3><p>Fundraising isn’t glamorous — it’s a grind. With a 95% rejection rate, it’s a numbers game. Success comes down to building volume, creating meaningful connections, and getting your pitch in front of the right people. Preparation, intention, and persistence are the keys to success.&nbsp;</p><h2>Core Concepts:</h2><h3><br>1. Networking: The Foundation of Fundraising</h3><p>Networking isn’t just about meeting people — it’s about making a lasting impression and staying top of mind.</p><p>Investors rarely write checks at the first meeting; trust is built over time by demonstrating consistency and execution.</p><p>Actionable Tips:</p><ul><li>Add everyone you meet on LinkedIn to expand your network.</li><li>Attend relevant events with angels and VCs if fundraising is planned within six months.</li><li>Research attendees in advance to prepare personalized talking points.</li><li>Perfect your 30-second pitch so it’s concise and compelling.</li><li>Avoid slow-growth opportunities like government contracts; focus on scalability.</li><li>Ask for feedback instead of funds initially to build rapport.</li><li>Start PR early and consistently communicate your vision through press, social media, and updates.</li><li>Collect email addresses to maintain contact and send monthly updates.</li></ul><h3>2. Monthly Email Updates: Keep Them Hooked</h3><p>Regular updates build trust by showcasing progress and maintaining investor interest.</p><p>Best Practices:</p><ul><li>Limit updates to two or three lines per section, using bullet points.</li><li>Lead with key wins and metrics to demonstrate traction.</li><li>Include a clear ask (e.g., advice, connections) to engage recipients.</li><li>Send updates consistently, e.g., the first of every month.</li></ul><h3>3. Introductions: Warm Leads Open Doors</h3><p>A warm introduction from a credible source increases your chances of getting noticed.<br></p><p>How to Maximize Introductions:</p><ul><li>Write forwardable emails with concise context, your company intro, and a link to your deck.</li><li>Stay in control of investor interactions; never delegate this to advisors or team members.</li><li>Use specific subject lines and highlight why you’re reaching out.</li></ul><h3>4. Scheduling Meetings: Respect Investor Time</h3><p>How you handle scheduling sets the tone for future interactions.<br></p><p>Key Practices:</p><ul><li>BCC introducers immediately to minimize unnecessary back-and-forth.</li><li>Offer time slots in the investor’s time zone using bullet points.</li><li>Avoid Calendly links; they can feel impersonal to some investors.</li><li>Avoid rescheduling unless absolutely necessary.<br></li></ul><h3>5. The First Meeting: Make It Count</h3><p>Your first meeting is often 30 minutes, making preparation critical.<br></p><p>Preparation Tips:</p><ul><li>Deliver a concise pitch in under 8 minutes, focusing on the problem, solution, and opportunity.</li><li>Have a clean and visually appealing deck ready with no more than 30 words per slide.</li><li>Be prepared for interruptions and use them as opportunities to engage.</li><li>Refine your pitch based on recurring questions or feedback.</li></ul><h2><br></h2><h2>Building Momentum: The Path to Yes</h2><p>Fundraising is a process that requires persistence, resilience, and strategic follow-ups.</p><p><strong>VC Funds:</strong> Start with a 30-minute pitch and progress through follow-ups, due diligence, and an investment committee decision.</p><p><strong>Angel Groups:</strong> Identify a champion to introduce your pitch to the group, followed by Q&amp;A and one-on-one follow-ups.</p><h2><br></h2><h2>Final Takeaway:</h2><p><br>Fundraising takes time, persistence, and strategy. Success lies in building momentum, respecting investor etiquette, and refining your approach at every stage. Treat each interaction as a step toward your ultimate goal and remember: every “no” gets you closer to the “yes” that matters.</p><p><br></p><h3>Explore More Funraising Resources:</h3><p><a title="The Broken Venture Capital System: Lessons From the Front Lines" href="https://foundervc.org/blog/the-broken-venture-capital-system" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-href="https://foundervc.org/blog/the-broken-venture-capital-system">The Broken Venture Capital System: Lessons From the Front Lines</a></p><p><a title="What VCs Really Think of Your Startup" href="https://foundervc.org/blog/what-vcs-really-think-of-your-startup" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-href="https://foundervc.org/blog/what-vcs-really-think-of-your-startup">What VCs Really Think of Your Startup</a></p><p><a title="B2B SaaS Pitch Deck Template" href="https://foundervc.org/blog/b2b-saas-pitch-deck-template" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-href="https://foundervc.org/blog/b2b-saas-pitch-deck-template">B2B SaaS Pitch Deck Template</a></p><p><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><p>--------------------------------</p><p>Tags: Fundraising, Venture Capital, Seed, How to Raise Money</p><p><em>This article follows the Founder VC Virtual Incubator's standardized format to ensure clarity, actionability, and professionalism:</em></p><table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" border="1" data-mce-style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Title</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">A clear and engaging title that sets the focus.<br></td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Objective</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Defines what the reader will learn or accomplish.<br></td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Contex</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">A relatable introduction or case study providing real-world relevance.</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Core Concepts</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Structured, numbered sections with actionable insights for readers.<br></td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Case Study (Optional)</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Real-world examples that illustrate key takeaways.<br></td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">Final Takeaway</td><td style="width: 50%;" data-mce-style="width: 50%;">A reinforced key message designed for practical application.</td></tr></tbody></table><p><em>This format ensures a professional and consistent reading experience, with actionable insights founders can immediately implement.</em></p><p><br></p><p>&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p>

The Unwritten Rules of Fundraising

<blockquote><p>Rejection doesn’t define you. How you handle it does.<br>&nbsp;</p></blockquote><p>As a wildly ambitious overachiever, rejection is a consistent part of my professional life. <strong>Startups demand resilience in the face of volatility. A career spent in startups demands one skill above all: the strategic management of negative emotions.</strong></p><p>Three startups later, I’ve transformed rejection from an obstacle into an accelerant using one key tool —<strong> a feedback filter that’s sharper than a steel trap.</strong></p><h2>&nbsp;<br>Run to the Pain</h2><p><br>In startups — and in life — <strong>what you don’t want to know is what will kill you the fastest.</strong> Perfectionism is nothing more than a fragile ego wrapped in denial, and denial doesn’t solve problems; it creates them.</p><p>A fragile ego is defined as “a weak, unstable, or insecure sense of self.” I’ve learned that avoiding the sting of rejection in the short term only amplifies its consequences in the long term.</p><p>So, I choose the opposite approach. I run straight into the pain. I confront it head-on, knowing that <strong>avoidance delays progress.</strong></p><blockquote><h3>All leaders feel fear. There’s no escaping it. But how you handle fear — fear of rejection, judgment, or public failure — defines your trajectory.<br>&nbsp;<br></h3></blockquote><h2>The Feedback Filter</h2><p>Feedback, especially the kind that leans negative, can easily overshadow praise. As a startup founder, my job is to listen to customers and deeply care about what I’m building. That means I’m constantly in the firing line for criticism.</p><p>Handling that feedback without losing momentum requires a plan — a filter.</p><p>This feedback filter isn’t just a metaphor; it’s a multi-layered system that processes criticism objectively, allows me to respond thoughtfully, and helps me extract value without internalizing the negativity.</p><p><strong>The goal? Excavate the gold while scraping off the garbage.</strong></p><figure id="figure-86vg5yq3qm5okpqg3" class=""><img id="86vg5yq3qm5okpqg3" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1605600659908-0ef719419d41?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHx0cmFzaCUyMGNhbnxlbnwwfHx8fDE3MzYzODE1Mzd8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="black trash bin with green leaves" title="black trash bin with green leaves" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1605600659908-0ef719419d41?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHx0cmFzaCUyMGNhbnxlbnwwfHx8fDE3MzYzODE1Mzd8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>&nbsp; &nbsp;<br>“Absorb what is useful, discard what is not, add what is uniquely your own.”<br>– Bruce Lee<br>&nbsp;<br></h3><h2>A Multi-Layered Steel Trap</h2><p><br>How do you protect your progress and accelerate growth while preserving your most important relationships? For me, it comes down to two foundational layers:</p><p>Human Archetypes — Filtering criticism based on the type of person giving it.<br>Core Beliefs — Evaluating feedback against my personal values and principles.<br>While all feedback has the potential for value, it must first be reconciled with the lens through which it’s given. Here’s how I categorize the people delivering feedback:<br>&nbsp;</p><h3>Archetype 1: Armchair Experts<br>Bullshit Meter: 90% Bullshit<br></h3><p><strong>Core Belief:</strong> Do not take criticism from someone who lacks the experience, expertise, or context to give meaningful feedback.<br>Startups are messy, and unless you’ve been in the trenches, you can’t fully understand the challenges. Worse, armchair experts often lack the self-awareness to recognize their own ignorance — and that makes them dangerous.</p><p>These individuals are easy to spot: they confidently give bad advice without ever having done the work themselves. If I had a dollar for every accounting firm partner who “helped” a founder ruin their fundraise, I’d own my own island.</p><p><strong>Lesson: </strong>Don’t let people who’ve never dared greatly shake your confidence. As Brené Brown puts it:</p><blockquote><p>“If you are not in the arena getting your ass kicked on occasion, I am not interested in or open to your feedback.”<br>&nbsp;</p></blockquote><h3><br>Archetype 2: Non-Believers (Candle Blower-Outers)<br>Bullshit Meter: 80% Bullshit</h3><p><br><strong>Core Belief:</strong> Their limitations are not your limitations.<br>Non-believers see your vision but don’t believe you’re capable of achieving it. Their doubt is less about you and more about their own insecurities.</p><p>These people often mask their discouragement as constructive criticism. They may even resent your ambition because it challenges their status quo.</p><p><strong>Lesson:</strong> Smile politely, ignore their doubts, and keep building. Your success will prove them wrong.<br>&nbsp;<br></p><h3>Archetype 3: Tested Industry Experts<br>Bullshit Meter: 10% Bullshit</h3><p><br><strong>Core Belief:</strong> Listen carefully but critically.<br>These rare individuals have walked the path before you. They’ve built, scaled, and exited companies or held leadership roles in your industry. Their feedback, though not infallible, is usually grounded in real-world experience.</p><p><strong>One Caveat:</strong> Beware of “mentor whiplash.” Too much feedback from too many smart people can derail you, especially if they don’t have enough context about your business to provide tailored advice.</p><p><strong>Lesson:</strong> Seek out these voices but evaluate their insights through the lens of your unique situation.</p><figure id="figure-y69boigr6m5okt2yf" class=""><img id="y69boigr6m5okt2yf" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1456109827/photo/man-is-giving-helping-hand-silhouettes-of-people-climbing-on-mountain-at-sunset-help-and.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=wcasmWNnHm5aRDkjeymLLzI5Cf-ay7hF63mds50DtU0=" alt="Man is giving helping hand. Silhouettes of people climbing on mountain at sunset. Help and assistance concept. Silhouettes of two people climbing on mountain and helping." title="Man is giving helping hand. Silhouettes of people climbing on mountain at sunset. Help and assistance concept. Silhouettes of two people climbing on mountain and helping." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1456109827/photo/man-is-giving-helping-hand-silhouettes-of-people-climbing-on-mountain-at-sunset-help-and.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=wcasmWNnHm5aRDkjeymLLzI5Cf-ay7hF63mds50DtU0=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><blockquote><p>&nbsp; &nbsp;<br>The most helpful people are the people one or two steps ahead of you.</p></blockquote><h3><br><strong>&nbsp;</strong><br>Archetype 4: True Friends with Context<br>Bullshit Meter: No Bullshit</h3><p><br><strong>Core Belief: </strong>The truth is a gift, even when it hurts.<br>True friends — the people who know you deeply and care about your success — will always tell you the hard truths. Their feedback, even when uncomfortable, is rooted in loyalty and love.</p><p>These are the people who hold you accountable, pushing you to align your actions with your values.</p><p><strong>Lesson:</strong> Surround yourself with these people. When they call you out, listen. These are the voices that will keep you grounded and growing.</p><h2><br>Hard Lessons Are the Fastest Way to Growth</h2><p><br>Rejection is part of the process. It doesn’t define you — how you handle it does. Build your feedback filter. Surround yourself with the right people. Run toward the pain, not away from it.</p><p>When you embrace hard conversations and curate the right voices in your life, rejection stops being a stumbling block. It becomes a stepping stone.</p><p><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><p><em>This article was originally published by Startup Stash on Medium [<a data-mce-href="https://medium.com/startup-stash/how-i-deal-with-rejection-as-someone-who-gets-rejected-most-of-the-time-a730a432721f" href="https://medium.com/startup-stash/how-i-deal-with-rejection-as-someone-who-gets-rejected-most-of-the-time-a730a432721f" title="https://medium.com/startup-stash/how-i-deal-with-rejection-as-someone-who-gets-rejected-most-of-the-time-a730a432721f" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">https://medium.com/startup-stash/how-i-deal-with-rejection-as-someone-who-gets-rejected-most-of-the-time-a730a432721f</a>].</em></p><p><br></p><p>----------------------------------------------</p><p><em><a data-mce-href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/lane-litz/" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/lane-litz/" title="Lane's LinkedIn" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lane Litz</a> is a proven startup founder, operator, and venture capitalist with a track record of building, scaling, and investing in high-potential startups. As employee #6 at VIPKID, she helped grow the company to a $3B valuation. Later, as the CEO and Co-founder of Speakia, she navigated challenging market conditions to lead the startup to acquisition. Her time in venture capital &nbsp;gave her a front-row seat to the systemic flaws in traditional VC, inspiring her to found Founder VC. Now, Lane is reshaping the venture landscape with a founder-first approach, focusing on sustainable investments that deliver measurable value for both founders and investors.</em></p>

How I Deal With Rejection as Someone Who Gets Rejected Most of The Time

<h3>Or: The Case for Bootstrapping</h3><p>Carta's graphic highlights an uncomfortable reality: the traditional venture capital model doesn’t work for most startups. Many founders today are forced to bootstrap their businesses to significant traction—focusing on profitability, product-market fit, and operational efficiency—before they can even consider external funding. For many, there’s simply no other choice.</p><figure id="figure-vu62jz1dvm5n5t5ld" data-full-width=""><img id="vu62jz1dvm5n5t5ld" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3b9pJHpqBrvxtPNAChLFeWMT64lrItSdDrCA7A98cpDW6BpSXS7kn4xFQOmhAfn0.jpg" alt="A chart titled " title="A chart titled " class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Bootstrapped solo founders are shaping the future of startups. Explore how the rise in solo founders without VC funding reflects a shifting entrepreneurial landscape." data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3b9pJHpqBrvxtPNAChLFeWMT64lrItSdDrCA7A98cpDW6BpSXS7kn4xFQOmhAfn0.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Bootstrapped solo founders are shaping the future of startups. Explore how the rise in solo founders without VC funding reflects a shifting entrepreneurial landscape.</figcaption></figure><h3>Founders Must Be Prepared to Bootstrap</h3><p>Venture capital has a narrow focus, prioritizing unicorns and high-risk, high-reward bets. This leaves the majority of startups—those with $1–2M ARR, clear product-market fit, and proven business models—without access to the funding they need to scale. Founders must be prepared to bootstrap their businesses to significant traction, focusing on profitability, product-market fit, and operational efficiency. Nobody is waiting with a check—and in today’s environment, that’s even more true. Valuing profitability early is no longer optional; it’s essential for survival and growth.</p><h3>Significant Traction Doesn’t Guarantee Funding</h3><p><br>Even after reaching $1–2M ARR and proving product-market fit, many startups still struggle to attract funding. Traditional venture capitalists are looking for billion-dollar valuation potential, leaving companies that don’t fit the unicorn mold overlooked despite their strong fundamentals and meaningful exit potential. Founders with proven traction and a path to profitability may still find themselves outside the scope of traditional VC, facing unnecessary risks to scale their businesses.</p><h3>Why Bootstrapping Has Become Essential</h3><p><strong>Funding Should Be Strategic, Not Reactive </strong></p><p>Raising capital too early leads to dilution, misaligned incentives, and wasted resources. Bootstrapping forces founders to focus on efficiency, customer needs, and proving their value proposition. Funding should only come after traction proves the business model can scale.</p><p><br><strong>Profitability Is Core, Not Optional </strong></p><p>Startups that prioritize profitability or sustainable unit economics are more resilient. These companies solve real problems for customers, relying on revenue rather than investor dollars to validate their products.<br></p><p><strong>Product-Market Fit First </strong></p><p>Without undeniable product-market fit, external capital becomes a distraction. Founders need to demonstrate demand and scalability before funding—it’s the only way to reduce risk and attract aligned investors.</p><p><br><strong>Business Model Validation Matters </strong></p><p>Startups with a tested, scalable business model are better positioned to deliver long-term value. Investors want to back certainty, not speculation.</p><p><br></p><h3>How Founder VC Bridges the Gap</h3><p>At Founder VC, we understand the gap that exists between early angel funding and traditional venture capital. Our New Age Venture Equity model is designed to solve this problem, providing founders with the resources they need to scale proven businesses without sacrificing control or sustainability.</p><p><strong>Backing Founders Who Bootstrap to Traction</strong><br>We work with startups that have already reached $1–2M ARR without significant external funding. These companies have proven product-market fit, validated demand, and operational efficiency—a foundation for scaling.</p><p><strong>Prioritizing Profitability and Sustainable Economics</strong><br>Our approach targets startups with clear unit economics and profitability. We avoid speculative investments and align capital with business fundamentals.</p><p><strong>Bridging the ‘Valley of Death’</strong><br>Startups with $300M–$500M M&amp;A potential often fall into a funding gap. Founder VC provides the structured capital and operational support these companies need to scale sustainably.</p><p><strong>Structured, Targeted Investments</strong><br>We focus on scaling proven models rather than chasing premature growth. This avoids unnecessary dilution and keeps founders in control.</p><p><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><h3>Rethinking Venture Capital</h3><p>The future of venture capital isn’t about chasing unicorns. It’s about building stronger, more resilient startups that solve real problems and deliver meaningful outcomes. Founder VC believes investment should empower founders, not derail them. Bootstrapping may be the default for many today, but it shouldn’t have to come with unnecessary risks. We’re here to bridge the gap.</p><p>The best companies aren’t just built; they’re proven through disciplined growth, customer focus, and sustainable economics. Founders deserve funding that reflects these values.</p>

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Founder VC invests in high-potential startups with proven product-market fit, helping them achieve scalable growth and M&A-driven exits. Unlike traditional VC, we specialize in capital-efficient companies, offering structured funding and hands-on support to drive scalable growth and predictable outcomes.

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