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
"eChai has been a game-changer for Hungrito, providing us with invaluable connections, insights, and opportunities that have significantly fueled our growth. eChai has introduced us to a global network of entrepreneurs and experts, fueling our growth and opening doors to new opportunities from Ahmedabad to Dubai. The community has become like a second family to us, providing support, guidance, and valuable insights as startup entrepreneurs."
Sahil Shah
Founder- Hungrito & Netsavvies. Digital Marketing Evangelist
“I have no hesitation in saying that my association with eChai has been a gateway into the startup ecosystem. Through this platform, I’ve had the opportunity to connect with many young and dynamic entrepreneurs. These interactions have been immensely enriching - I’ve learned a great deal and have always tried to offer guidance whenever approached. It’s a truly symbiotic relationship that I deeply value, and it wouldn’t have been possible without eChai.”
Syed Nadeem Jafri
Founder, Hearty Mart
“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.
