TechCrunch Startup News How founders can prepare for their late-stage fundraises from the start
Nov 11, 2025
Founders should start building relationships with late-stage investors early, even during seed rounds. Planning for future capital needs from day one is crucial for scaling. Engaging with growth investors at least two years prior allows them to understand your business better. Early introductions facilitate faster funding processes, giving potential investors time to learn your vision. Using your existing cap table can help connect with compatible VCs. These strategies pave the way for a smoother transition to late-stage fundraises.
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Plan Late-Stage Rounds From Day One
- Start planning your later-stage fundraises from day one when you raise seed money.
- Map total capital needs early so you can target the right investor types over time.
Avon's Capital-Intensive Origin Story
- Sadi Khan described his company as very capital intensive from day zero due to asset-backed cards.
- They built an intensive investor pipeline because they knew they would require large amounts of capital to scale.
Cultivate Later-Stage Relationships Early
- Begin building relationships with later-stage investors at least two years before you need capital.
- Let investors learn your business and milestones so they can add value before investing.