A Short Guide to Startup Funding Phases

This guide to startup funding phases provides an overview of the various stages of startups financing.

As they grow startups move from pre-seed, seed, and Series A funding to later stages like Series B and C financing.

These funding stages reflect the three stages of a startup, from pre-acceleration to acceleration to scaleup.

Each of these stages provides startups with the capital they need to reach the next level of success.

In this guide, we will explore the typical amounts raised in each stage, the goals and priorities of each phase, and what companies should focus on as they move through each stage of funding.

Whether you are an entrepreneur looking to raise capital for your startup or an investor interested in understanding the startup funding process, this guide will provide valuable insights into the world of startup financing.

Pre-seed funding is the earliest stage of startup financing.

In this phase, newly established companies aim to validate their value proposition and determine if the market is interested in their product or service.

The primary focus is to gather sufficient capital to perform market research, hire key staff members, and conduct a minimum viable test of the concept.

This funding is usually the bare minimum needed to test the concept and is followed by a subsequent round of fundraising to operationalize the go-to market strategy.

Pre-seed funding is crucial for startups to determine the viability of their idea and lay the foundation for future growth.

In this phase, companies aim to continue growing and expanding their operations.

The typical amount raised in a Series A funding ranges from $2 million to $10 million.

Series A funding provides startups with the capital necessary to expand to new locations, verticals, or add new products.

The goal of Series A funding is to raise enough capital to support the company's growth and establish a strong position in the market.

Companies seeking Series A funding should have solid revenue traction, a predictable sales process, and a competent team to execute their growth strategy.

Series B and C financing are later stages of startup funding. They are typically for startups that have achieved significant growth and are looking to continue expanding.

Series B funding is focused on scaling the company's operations, expanding into new markets, and investing in new initiatives.

The typical amount raised in a Series B funding round ranges from $10 million to $100 million.

Series C financing is used by companies that have achieved substantial global growth and are into the next level of success.

The goal of Series C funding is to provide the capital necessary to continue expanding the business and strengthen the company's market position.

A Series C funding could round range from $20 million to $200 million or even more.

In general, Series B and C funding are crucial for startups that are looking to reach the next level of success and establish themselves as market leaders.