The Startup Funding Decision Matrix

Choose the right funding model for your startup, based on what you actually want to build.

Not every founder needs VC funding.

Not every business is built to scale at all costs.

This resource helps you cut through the noise and decide which funding model makes the most sense for you, based on clarity, not hype.

Whether you’re building something bold, bootstrapped, or somewhere in between, this matrix will help you:

✅ Understand the trade-offs between funding types

✅ Align your capital strategy with your personal goals

✅ Avoid pressure-filled paths that don’t serve your mission

✅ Get clear on what’s right for you, not just what looks good on LinkedIn

What You’ll Get:

• 🧭 Interactive Notion TemplateA decision-making space you can edit and customise
• 📊 1-Page PDF Matrix Cheat SheetVisual summary to compare VC, grants, angel, debt, and more
• 🧠 Reflection PromptsDesigned to help you define success on your terms

Perfect for:

• First-time founders figuring out their path
• Creators or solo builders wanting clarity on funding options
• Under-recognised founders navigating investment bias
• Anyone asking: “Do I actually want to raise VC?”

💌 

From Emma:

I’ve built four businesses and helped dozens of founders raise capital, some went angel, some VC, some bootstrapped, some found their own way. This is the tool I wish I had at the start.

No fluff. No formulas. Just clarity.