Navigating Seed Funding: A Founder's Roadmap

Raising your seed round is more than just a financial milestone; it's a validation of your vision and the fuel required to turn your abstract idea into a tangible reality. However, for many first-time founders, the process remains opaque, stressful, and filled with potential pitfalls.

1. Preparation is Everything

1. Preparation is Everything

Before you pitch a single investor, you need to be armed with the right materials and mindset. Preparation separates success from failure.

The Essential Toolkit

• A Compelling Pitch Deck: Keep it to 10-12 slides. Focus on the problem, your solution, the market size, and your team.
• Solid Financial Model: You don't need crystal ball accuracy, but you need to show you understand your unit economics and burn rate.
• Targeted Investor List: Research is key. Look for investors who match your stage, sector, and geography.

2. The Pitch: Storytelling over Statistics

Your pitch isn't just about your product's features; it's about the story.

Why You?

Founder-market fit is critical at the seed stage. Investors are betting on you and your ability to execute.

Why Now?

What market forces are making this the perfect time for your solution? Is it a shift in consumer behavior? A technological breakthrough?

3. Due Diligence and Closing

Once you have secured a term sheet, the real work begins. Due diligence is where deals can stall or die.

Be Data-Room Ready

Have your legal documents, cap table, employment contracts, and IP assignments organized. Speed and transparency build trust.

Conclusion

Raising capital is a full-time job that requires resilience and clarity. At Orkust Capital, we don't just write checks; we partner with founders to navigate this exact journey.