Resources to Help Founders in the Fundraising Journey
Fundraising
The Most Founder-Friendly Investors in Chicago
Founder-First Award, recognizing investors who go beyond just writing checks—they become true partners to founders, offering unwavering support, mentorship, and strategic guidance.
September 19, 2024
Fundraising
Understanding How Early-Stage Investors Evaluate Investment Opportunities
Learn how investors evaluate early-stage opportunities. How to present your market opportunity, team, and product in a way that resonates with investors and increases your chances of securing funding
Maggie Bolt
August 15, 2024
Fundraising
Decoding VC Jargon: What Does “Traction” Really Mean?
All things founders need to know about gaining traction for their early-stage venture
The Essential Guide to Creating a Compelling B2B SaaS Pitch Deck for Pre-Seed and Seed Stage Founders
Jonah Midanik
March 21, 2023
Fundraising
Pitch Decks that Raise
Put your best foot forward in front of Investors
Jonah Midanik
November 1, 2022
Fundraising
26 Questions To Ask Before Joining A Startup Accelerator
Choosing an accelerator program is a huge decision. To help you choose one that’s best for your startup, here are 26 questions to ask before accepting an offer.
July 9, 2021
Fundraising
Founders: Use This Framework When Talking to Investors
What makes a fundraising presentation successful? Use this framework to successfully answer investor questions and communicate your startup value.
Jonah Midanik
June 16, 2021
Founder Stories
From Solving A Personal Problem to Raising $13M from Andreessen Horowitz: The Journey of Firstbase
Forum alum Chris Herd shares his journey from solving a personal pain point to raising a round led by Silicon Valley’s biggest venture fund.
Alexis Clarfield-Henry
April 30, 2021
Fundraising
What Does A Startup Accelerator Actually Do?
What does an Accelerator do and how does it help my business?
Olivia O’Sullivan
December 9, 2020
Fundraising
Why Founders Shouldn’t Fundraise From VCs in Canada Without Traction
In Canada, check sizes are smaller, angels are more risk averse, and deal processes often have stricker tems. Here's how to successfully fundraise in the Canadian market:
Jonah Midanik
October 27, 2020
Fundraising
How to Nail Your Seed Round Investor Meetings
Seed round meetings really impact your startup’s long-term success. Here’s what to prepare beforehand, how to approach each meeting, and tips on landing investments.
Jonah Midanik
September 16, 2020
Fundraising
Understanding the SaaS fundraising strategy that’s right for you
Once you’ve prepped an investor list, it’s time to start fundraising. Here are 2 effective strategies we've found work and how to choose the right one for you.
Jonah Midanik
September 9, 2020
Fundraising
Raising Your Seed Round: How to Secure Your First Investor Meeting
Raising Your Seed Round: How to Secure Your First Investor Meeting
Jonah Midanik
September 2, 2020
Fundraising
How to Nail Your First Meeting With a Potential Investor
The first investor meeting is really nerve-racking. Here’s what to prepare beforehand, how to give a great first impression, and tips on retaining their interest.