Things to keep in mind during fundraising for early stage founders.
1) It is very important to know/understand when is the right time to raise funds. Don’t raise at the last minute else you won’t have any leverage. Also consider there may be multiple ways to increase your company’s cash including debt options
2) In the struggle between balancing funds and growing customers, try to focus on growing customers using any means necessary. Remember if there is growth, funds will follow.
3) During the process of raising funds, anything could go wrong. Don’t rest just because you have a signed term sheet. It’s never over until the funds are in your bank account.
4) Having some kind of leverage is the most important thing while raising funds.
You can have leverage if,
a) your growth is strong
b) multiple VCs are interested in putting money creating competitive situations
c) founders have a history of building successful companies before
1) It is very important to know/understand when is the right time to raise funds. Don’t raise at the last minute else you won’t have any leverage. Also consider there may be multiple ways to increase your company’s cash including debt options
2) In the struggle between balancing funds and growing customers, try to focus on growing customers using any means necessary. Remember if there is growth, funds will follow.
3) During the process of raising funds, anything could go wrong. Don’t rest just because you have a signed term sheet. It’s never over until the funds are in your bank account.
4) Having some kind of leverage is the most important thing while raising funds.
You can have leverage if,
a) your growth is strong
b) multiple VCs are interested in putting money creating competitive situations
c) founders have a history of building successful companies before
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The eChai Effect - In Their Words
"At DevX.Work, we’ve greatly benefited from our association with eChai. Their events and networking forums have connected us with high-potential startups, ecosystem leaders, and innovation-driven professionals — many of whom have become valuable partners, collaborators, and even clients. What stands out most is the openness and accessibility of the community — whether you're an early-stage founder or an experienced entrepreneur, eChai provides a welcoming space to learn, collaborate, and grow. It's more than just a network — it's a catalyst for real, collaborative growth. We’re proud to be part of the eChai community. Highly recommended for any organization aiming to grow within the startup space."
Umesh Uttamchandani
Co-Founder, DevX
"eChai isn’t just a startup community … it’s a mindset . eChai has been one of the most impactful communities in my entrepreneurial journey. It’s been a turning point . In a world where building something can often feel isolating, eChai gave me a sense of belonging. I’ve found mentors, collaborators, and friends here — people who genuinely want to see you succeed. It’s a space where ideas are challenged, actions are celebrated, and founders grow not just in scale, but in clarity and confidence. From late-night ideas to early-morning pitches, this community has quietly but powerfully shaped the way I build, think, and dream. I’ll always be grateful for the way eChai creates spaces where founders don’t just grow businesses — they grow together."
Koumal Kalantry
Founder, Bignano Ventures
“eChai has been that turning point in my journey. It gave me a platform when I wasn’t looking for visibility but needed direction. Over the years, it became more than just a network. It became my tribe; a place where conversations sparked collaborations, and strangers became trusted sounding boards. What I value most is how effortlessly eChai brings people together - no airs, no filters, just genuine people with shared dreams. I owe a lot to this community and to Jatin, whose consistency and belief in people have shaped journeys like mine. Forever grateful to be part of something so real.”
Rushabh Shah
Managing Partner - STIR Advisors
eChai Partner Brands
eChai Ventures partners with select brands as their growth partner - working together to explore new ideas, open doors, and build momentum across the startup ecosystem.
