The Problem with Most Fundraising Models
Investors see hundreds of pitch decks every year. Most show the same unrealistic growth curves: linear acquisition, zero churn, infinite market demand. The problem? These models don't survive first contact with reality.
What Investors Actually See
What Really Happens
The best fundraising models acknowledge these realities upfront. They show investors you've thought through the challenges and have a plan to overcome them.
Building Realistic Growth Projections
Start with your current business metrics and build forward. Use conservative assumptions that you can defend with data.
Interactive Growth Model
Model your business growth for fundraising. Start with your current metrics and project forward. Adjust the assumptions to see how they affect your growth trajectory.
Key Insight: At these growth rates, you'll have 570 members and $42,750/month revenue in 3 years. This is realistic growth that investors can believe in.
The Metrics Investors Actually Care About
Unit Economics
Growth Metrics
Turning Data into Compelling Narratives
Investors don't just want numbers-they want stories. Here's how to weave your growth projections into a compelling fundraising narrative.
The Fundraising Story Framework
Establish Credibility
Show what you've achieved so far. "We've grown from 0 to 150 paying customers with $11,250 MRR and 4% churn."
Show the Opportunity
Connect your current metrics to market size. "Our target market is $2B, and we're capturing 0.006%. With proven unit economics, we can scale to 1% market share."
Present Realistic Projections
Use conservative scenarios. "Conservatively, we'll reach 570 customers and $42,750 MRR in 3 years. Aggressively, we could hit 800 customers."
Address the Risks
Show you've thought through challenges. "If churn rises to 6%, we'd still reach 450 customers. Our plan B includes [contingency strategies]."
Common Fundraising Model Mistakes
Overly Optimistic Assumptions
Assuming viral growth, 0% churn, or unlimited market demand makes investors question your judgment.
Ignoring Churn
Many models show linear growth without accounting for customer loss. This creates unrealistic expectations.
Not Modeling CAC Increases
Customer acquisition costs rise as you scale. Assuming constant CAC leads to unrealistic profitability projections.
No Sensitivity Analysis
Single-point projections don't show what happens if assumptions change. Investors want to see ranges.
Preparing for Investor Questions
Questions You'll Definitely Get
"What's your churn rate?"
Investors know high churn kills growth. Be ready to explain your current rate and reduction plan.
"How much does it cost to acquire a customer?"
CAC is the second most important metric after revenue. Show how it changes as you scale.
"What's your payback period?"
Investors want to know how long until customers become profitable.
"What happens if growth slows?"
Show you've thought through downside scenarios. This builds credibility.
Build Your Fundraising Model
Use our growth simulator to create realistic projections that investors will believe in. Model different scenarios and understand the impact of your key assumptions.