As a startup founder, I've experience the incredible highs and lows of building a business from the ground up. One of the most challenging and unpredictable aspects has been the funding journey. Here are some of the key lessons I've learned:
Finding trustworthy people and getting correct feedback is crucial. We've had the privilege of working with some amazing advisors and contacts who genuinely believe in our vision and have provided invaluable guidance.
Allie Haldeman , Christine Tolton, Morgan Stanley Investment Management , Nicholas Markman , Gunderson Dettmer, Japan Airlines, Air Canada, Véronique Gonthier, AWS Startup Loft Accelerator, Startup Grind , Web Summit , Thomas Valera, Gwen Le Tiran, PhD, Irène Balmès, PhD, Ludo Dhelft, Olav Pott, Jeroen Voogd, Jan Pieter Gerritsen,Jelmer Peter ,Jolanda van der Aart, Vincent Lafrenaye Lamontagne, Teaching Hotel Chateau Bethlehem , And all the others we met this year.
However, we've also encountered a number of scammers who wasted our time and resources. The lesson? Always do your due diligence, but don't be afraid to cut ties when you sense something is off.
Scammers may be everywhere, but real people will always try to help. Our most valuable connections have come through introductions, good words, and genuine support from those who want to see us succeed. We're grateful for every person who has taken the time to open doors for us.
Fundraising is a numbers game. Identifying the right investors who align with your business model and stage of growth is challenging. You never know if you're too early, too late, or simply not the right fit. Persistence and resilience are key.
4-5. The funding impact is felt most when it's time to scale. Until now, we've self-funded our growth, but the difference between 10 cities and 29 cities is significant. We know the big impact is yet to come.
Don't pay platforms for help - do your own research. Most paid platforms simply provide information you can find on your own through resources like Crunchbase. (https://lnkd.in/e4Zqtej) Save your money and put in the legwork.
August is the worst month ever for fundraising. Who knew that investors go on vacation just when you're trying to close a round? Lesson learned - plan accordingly and don't get discouraged by the seasonal lulls.
The startup journey is undoubtedly a rollercoaster, but with the right mindset, perseverance, and support system, the highs can far outweigh the lows. I'm grateful for every lesson learned, and I'm excited to see what the future holds.
#startups, Y Combinator, Start it Accelerate | @KBC, #entrepreneurship , #fundraising, #venturecapital , #startuplife , #AI, Marriott International , Hyatt Hotels Corporation, Hilton,Hilton Hotels & Resorts , Accor, Studio 100 Benelux, Amazon Web Services (AWS)
