Did you know: Evernote's early survival was made possible by a single fan. When the company was on the brink of shutting down, a user who believed in the product invested $500,000, allowing Evernote to stay afloat and grow into the app it is today.

What to expect: "How to Fund a Startup” by Paul Graham provides tips on how to navigate the sometimes daunting world of startup fundraising.

Building Relationships, Not Just Raising Capital

Paul Graham emphasizes that raising money isn’t just about finding the biggest check - it’s about finding the right partners who believe in your vision and can offer strategic value. Here’s how:

• Find Investors Who Believe in Your Vision: Investors who are aligned with your mission will provide more than just capital - they'll offer mentorship, industry connections, and the patience required to help you grow your business.

• Don't Wait for the Perfect Time: Sorry to the perfectionists out there, but there is rarely a "perfect" time to raise money. Many founders hesitate, thinking they need to reach a certain milestone. But fundraising should start as soon as you have a clear vision and need capital to grow.

• Leverage Early Wins: Even small achievements, such as hitting early product milestones or acquiring a few key customers, can be used to build momentum with potential investors. Show them that your startup is already on the path to success.

Take some time to think about what early wins or milestones you can showcase to potential investors. Whether it’s user feedback, product progress, or partnerships, leverage your achievements to build trust and excitement among those who can help you scale.

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