Fundraising 101
How to use strategic partnerships to supercharge your pre‑seed raise
Looking to fundraise pre-seed? Learn how smart partnerships can amplify traction, credibility, and investor momentum even before you raise.
Posts by Valentina Espina
Founder-centric insights and practical guidance on fundraising, investor relations, and startup growth.
Fundraising 101
How Much Equity Should You Give Up in Pre-Seed Funding? A Founder’s Guide to Staying Smart and in Control
Pre-seed funding got you asking how much equity to give up? Here’s a tactical guide to keeping your raise fair, focused, and founder-friendly.
Fundraising 101
How to Use Beta Testing to Validate Your Startup Idea Before Fundraising
Run a beta test that gives you real traction and investor-ready validation, here’s how.
Investor Intel
What VCs really mean: decoding investor feedback during fundraising
VCs saying “too early” or “keep us posted”? Learn what investors really mean, how to respond, and how to move forward with clarity in your startup fundraising p
Fundraising 101
Burnout in the raise: How to stay sharp when fundraising drags on
Fundraising can take months and wear you down. Here’s how to manage your energy, stay focused, and avoid burnout during your startup raise.
Investor Intel
Stop Pitching the Wrong People: How to Build a Smart Investor List
Not all investors are right for you. Learn how to find aligned pre-seed investors who match your stage, vision, and sector, without wasting months pitching.
Investor Intel
Inside the Investor Mindset: What VCs Want to See in First Meetings
Learn what investors really want to see in your first meeting, from clarity and founder-market fit to traction signals, and how to make it count.
Fundraising 101
How Early-Stage Startups Can Use Data to Win Investors
Investors don’t want numbers, they want stories. Here’s how to use data to show traction, momentum, and vision in your fundraise.
Fundraising 101
How Long Should Pre-Seed Funds Last? Here’s What Investors Expect
Wondering how much runway to raise at pre-seed? Learn the founder-friendly formula for calculating 12–18 months of capital and avoiding dilution mistakes.