Posted on

Algoma Secures $2.3M to Streamline Real Estate Deals

Real Estate

Algoma, a NYC-based developer of a forward-thinking digital platform designed for feasibility, pre-construction process, and automating the integrated and repeatable delivery of sustainable buildings. The company’s platform combines automation with mass timber, resulting in rapid architecture and engineering designs by streamlining processes, to achieve quick delivery, reduce costs and enhance returns for real estate developers, enabling developers to leverage mass timber for swifter construction delivery while effectively eliminating embodied carbon emissions.

Algoma was funded $2.3 million led by Zacua Ventures, with participation from SOSV, Iron Prairie Ventures, DOMiNO Ventures, Compose VC and angel investors. Algoma plans to invest the funds in expanding its engineering team, enriching its product suite, and advancing its web platform.

Algoma is on a mission to simplify and streamline how real estate deals are managed online. Its web platform acts as a centralized digital hub for real estate agents, buyers, sellers, and other stakeholders to coordinate, document, and close deals more efficiently.

The real estate sector has long been criticized for its reliance on outdated systems and disjointed workflows. Many deals are still handled through a patchwork of emails, spreadsheets, PDFs, and phone calls — often resulting in delays, missed details, and added costs. Algoma’s web platform is designed to eliminate those inefficiencies by offering a single dashboard that connects all parties and automates common tasks.

With tools for contract management, document sharing, scheduling, compliance tracking, and real-time communication, the platform is already gaining traction among boutique brokerages and mid-sized real estate firms across Canada and the U.S. Early users report faster deal cycles and fewer errors, helping them close more transactions with less friction.

According to industry research, the global real estate software market is projected to grow to $18.7 billion by 2030, driven by increased digitization and demand for more efficient property management tools. Algoma positions itself at the center of this transformation by targeting the high-friction segment of deal management.

The company’s roadmap for the next 12 months includes launching AI-powered assistants for agents, more customizable workflows for brokerages, and a mobile app version of the platform. Additionally, Algoma is exploring partnerships with national real estate associations to further integrate its tools into everyday agent practices.

Beyond product development, Algoma will use the funding to grow its customer success and sales teams, with the goal of expanding into new U.S. markets by Q1 2026. The company currently operates out of its headquarters in Toronto, with a remote team spread across North America.

As the real estate industry continues its shift toward digitization, companies like Algoma are positioning themselves to be the connective tissue that powers the next generation of property transactions. With fresh funding and a clear vision, Algoma appears well-prepared to make that vision a reality.

By: K. Tagura

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

Posted on

The Legal and Financial Foundations Every Startup Needs to Get Right

Legal

Starting a business is an exciting journey filled with innovation, passion, and dreams of success. But before diving headfirst into launching your product or pitching to investors, it’s critical to establish the legal and financial foundations of your startup. These fundamentals are the bedrock of a sustainable and scalable business. Overlooking them can lead to costly mistakes, legal disputes, or even the failure of your venture.

Here’s what every startup founder needs to get right from day one:

1. Choosing the Right Business Structure

The first step in establishing your startup is selecting the most appropriate legal structure. This decision impacts everything from how you’re taxed to your personal liability and how you raise capital. The most common options include:

  • Sole Proprietorship – Simple to set up but offers no personal liability protection.
  • Partnership – Suitable for two or more founders, but still leaves personal assets exposed.
  • Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Offers flexibility and protects personal assets.
  • C-Corporation – Preferred for startups seeking venture capital due to ease of issuing shares.
  • S-Corporation – Offers tax benefits, but with restrictions on shareholders.

Tip: Consult a startup attorney or CPA to determine the best fit based on your growth plans.

2. Registering Your Business and Trademarks

After selecting a structure, register your business with the appropriate state and federal agencies. This step legitimizes your operations and helps with tax filings. Don’t forget about intellectual property:

  • Register your business name and logo to prevent others from using it.
  • Apply for trademarks if your brand identity is crucial to your business model.
  • Secure domain names and social media handles to protect your online presence.

3. Drafting Clear Founders’ Agreements

When co-founders are involved, a written Founders’ Agreement is essential. It outlines:

  • Ownership percentages
  • Roles and responsibilities
  • Decision-making processes
  • Vesting schedules
  • Exit strategies

Having these terms in writing prevents future conflicts and protects relationships.

4. Building a Solid Financial System

Before your startup makes its first sale, set up robust financial practices:

  • Open a dedicated business bank account
  • Choose accounting software like QuickBooks or Xero
  • Hire a part-time bookkeeper or CPA to manage your finances

Track all expenses and income from day one to avoid cash flow surprises and stay compliant with tax regulations.

5. Understanding Tax Obligations

Taxes can be a major pain point if not managed correctly. Depending on your business structure and location, you may owe:

  • Income tax
  • Sales tax
  • Payroll tax
  • Self-employment tax

Stay on top of deadlines and consider hiring a tax advisor to navigate the complexities.

6. Obtaining Necessary Licenses and Permits

Different industries and locations require specific licenses and permits. Examples include:

  • Health permits (for food businesses)
  • Professional licenses (for consultants)
  • Seller’s permits (for retail)

Failure to obtain the right licenses can lead to fines or forced shutdowns.

7. Protecting Your Team with Contracts and Policies

Whether hiring employees or contractors, legal documentation is a must:

  • Employment agreements outlining roles and terms
  • Non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to protect sensitive information
  • Independent contractor agreements to clarify non-employee relationships

Also, establish HR policies early on—like vacation, harassment, and remote work policies.

8. Getting Insurance Coverage

Startups often overlook insurance, but it’s crucial for risk management. Common types include:

  • General liability insurance
  • Professional liability insurance
  • Workers’ compensation
  • Cyber liability insurance

A small premium today could save you from a massive financial loss tomorrow.

Final Thoughts

Laying a strong legal and financial foundation may not be the flashiest part of building a startup, but it’s one of the most vital. By addressing these elements early, you position your business for smooth scaling, better investment opportunities, and long-term success. If you’re unsure where to begin, reach out to legal and financial professionals who specialize in startups—they’re worth every penny.

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

Posted on

ClearVector Funded $13M to Advance Identity-Focused Cybersecurity

Identity

ClearVector, a Reston, VA-based developer of an identity-driven security system designed to help organizations protect themselves in a cloud-native and cloud-first future. The company’s platform offers information support, one-click remediation, a real-time notification facility, activity status, and others, enabling clients to be prepared for a breach well in advance.

ClearVector was funded $13 million Series A funding round, aimed at accelerating the growth and capabilities of its identity-driven cybersecurity platform. The new investment was led by Scale Venture Partners, with participation from Okta Ventures, Inner Loop Capital, and existing angel investor Menlo Ventures, in conjunction with the funding. Ariel Tseitlin, Partner at Scale Venture Partners, will join the Board of Directors.

Founded in 2020, ClearVector protects organizations from modern threats by continuously monitoring and controlling identity and access across cloud-native environments. Unlike traditional perimeter-based models, ClearVector’s platform focuses on identifying and mitigating risks at the identity layer, which has become a top attack vector in recent years due to the widespread adoption of remote work and cloud technologies.

ClearVector CEO and co-founder John Laliberte said they built ClearVector to give enterprises real-time visibility and control over how identities behave across the entire environment. With this funding, they’re scaling to meet the growing demand for zero-trust and identity-first security.

The new capital will enhance product development, expand go-to-market strategies, and grow the company’s engineering and customer success teams. ClearVector plans to double its headcount over the next 12 months, with a strong focus on hiring experts in cloud security, machine learning, and behavioral analytics.

ClearVector’s platform uses a combination of behavioral analytics, real-time policy enforcement, and machine learning to detect and respond to anomalies in identity usage. This includes everything from excessive privilege escalations to suspicious lateral movements, often precursors to serious breaches. The company supports integration with major identity providers and cloud platforms, making it easier for customers to adopt identity-first security without overhauling their existing infrastructure.

Several mid-sized enterprises in the technology, financial services, and healthcare sectors have already adopted the platform. According to Allen, customer feedback has driven the company’s rapid iteration and feature development.

The cybersecurity industry has seen a surge in funding over the past few years as organizations grapple with a growing number of sophisticated threats. According to Gartner, identity-related attacks account for over 80% of breaches, making identity protection a top priority for CISOs worldwide.

ClearVector’s funding comes at a time when security budgets are under more scrutiny, but decision-makers remain committed to tools that improve resilience without increasing complexity. The startup’s identity-first model offers a targeted, efficient way to reduce risk without adding unnecessary friction to users and operations.

Looking ahead, ClearVector plans to expand its product capabilities into new areas, including non-human identity monitoring, advanced threat simulations, and integration with broader XDR (Extended Detection and Response) ecosystems. ClearVector is well-positioned to be a key player in the next generation of cybersecurity, starting with identity at its core.

By: K. Tagura

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

Posted on

Investors Psychology During Startup Pitches

Investors

When entrepreneurs walk into a room to pitch their startup, they often believe that the numbers, the slide deck, and the business model will carry them to success. While those are essential, there’s another layer many overlooks: the psychology of pitching. Understanding what investors really think during your pitch can make or break your fundraising journey.

Let’s pull back the curtain and explore the subtle mental evaluations, emotional triggers, and subconscious judgments investors experience as you present your big idea.

1. First Impressions Form Fast—Within 7 Seconds

The first few moments of your pitch are critical. Investors often make snap judgments about your confidence, credibility, and leadership potential before you even dive into your business model.

What they’re thinking:
“Can I trust this person to lead a company?”
“Do they seem competent, passionate, and authentic?”

Pro tip: Walk in with confident body language. Smile, make eye contact, and speak clearly. Establish presence before you even start talking.

2. Emotional Resonance Matters More Than You Think

Humans are wired to connect through emotions, and investors are no exception. A pitch that lacks emotional storytelling can feel robotic and forgettable.

What they’re thinking:
“Do I feel inspired by this vision?”
“Will others believe in this as passionately as the founder does?”

Pro tip: Use a compelling origin story or customer success narrative to bring your vision to life. Make the investor feel the problem—and your solution.

3. Investors Look for Coachability, Not Just Confidence

While self-assurance is key, overconfidence can be a red flag. Investors prefer founders who are open to feedback and show a growth mindset.

What they’re thinking:
“Will this person listen to advice?”
“Are they stubborn or adaptable?”

Pro tip: Show that you’ve evolved the business based on input or data. Mention feedback you’ve implemented—it demonstrates humility and maturity.

4. They’re Constantly Assessing Team Strength

A stellar idea is only as strong as the team behind it. Investors evaluate not just the CEO, but the founding team’s dynamic and execution ability.

What they’re thinking:
“Can this team deliver?”
“Is there a strong technical lead or marketing co-founder?”

Pro tip: Introduce your team clearly, even in solo presentations. Highlight key team members’ strengths, past successes, and how they complement each other.

5. Financials Must Show Potential, Not Perfection

You don’t need perfect numbers—you need believable ones. Investors know forecasts are estimates, but they’re looking for thoughtful, data-backed projections.

What they’re thinking:
“Is this founder financially literate?”
“Do the projections make sense or seem exaggerated?”

Pro tip: Walk them through how you arrived at your revenue estimates. Use industry benchmarks and comparable case studies to build credibility.

6. They’re Judging the Market More Than the Product

You may love your product, but investors prioritize market opportunity. A great product in a small market won’t excite them as much as a decent product in a huge, growing market.

What they’re thinking:
“How big is the total addressable market?”
“Is this a scalable opportunity?”

Pro tip: Highlight trends, underserved markets, and potential future expansions. Show that your business can grow fast and wide.

7. Investors Want to Know the Exit Plan

Even if it’s early days, investors want to understand how they’ll eventually get a return. It’s not greedy—it’s just their job.

What they’re thinking:
“What’s the likely exit scenario?”
“Will I get 10x return within 5-7 years?”

Pro tip: Mention realistic exit possibilities—acquisition targets, IPO potential, or similar exits in your industry.

Conclusion

Understanding the psychology of pitching helps you tailor your message not just to impress, but to connect. Investors aren’t just assessing your business—they’re reading you as a founder. Master the subtle cues, emotional beats, and mental filters at play, and you’ll move from just another pitch to an unforgettable opportunity.

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

Posted on

CodeAnt AI Funded $2M to Boost Code Review Automation and Software Security

Software Security

CodeAnt AI, a San Francisco, CA-based, developer of a devtool platform intended to enforce clean code practices in software security. The company’s platform automatically detects and fixes code issues to automate code quality checks and security vulnerability detection, write cleaner, more maintainable, and less error-prone code without the need for manual review and correction, enabling development teams to enhance code reliability, reduce technical debt, and accelerate delivery cycles.

CodeAnt AI was funded $2 million led by Y Combinator, VitalStage Ventures, and Uncorrelated Ventures, with participation from DeVC, Transpose Platform, Entrepreneur First and angel investors. The funding will be used to expand the engineering team, invest in machine learning research, and grow enterprise partnerships across North America and Europe.

CodeAnt AI has set out to address one of the most time-consuming and error-prone aspects of software development: manual code reviews. The company’s AI-powered platform uses large language models and deep learning techniques to analyze code submissions in real-time, identifying security vulnerabilities, logic errors, and code style violations before human review even begins.

Amartya Jha the founder of CodeAnt AI said, that code reviews are critical for catching bugs and enforcing best practices, but they’re often tedious and inconsistent. Their  platform acts like a supercharged reviewer, giving developers immediate, actionable feedback while ensuring that no critical security flaws slip through the cracks.

According to Jha, the AI can understand both the syntactic and semantic structure of code, making it capable of identifying subtle vulnerabilities that often go unnoticed in peer reviews. This includes common issues such as injection flaws, race conditions, and insecure authentication logic. By embedding security analysis directly into the review process, CodeAnt aims to reduce the average time it takes to detect and fix vulnerabilities—currently estimated at over 200 days, according to IBM’s Cost of a Data Breach Report.

The company’s early adopters include fintech startups and mid-sized SaaS firms who have reported improved code quality and a 30–40% reduction in time spent on code reviews. The platform felt like having a senior engineer with a security background reviewing every pull request.

In addition to bug detection, CodeAnt AI’s tool offers real-time collaboration features for engineering teams. Developers can ask the AI for suggestions, request explanations for flagged issues, and even get auto-generated test cases based on code context. The platform currently supports JavaScript, Python, Go, and Java, with Rust and Kotlin integrations in development.

To further its mission, CodeAnt plans to launch a beta program for enterprise clients in Q3 2025, offering integrations with GitHub, GitLab, and Bitbucket. The company is also investing in explainable AI (XAI) to ensure transparency in how its recommendations are generated, a key concern for larger organizations seeking to maintain compliance and accountability.

As the AI arms race continues in the developer tools space, CodeAnt AI’s fresh funding and clear focus on security-first review automation positions it as a notable player to watch. With software vulnerabilities remaining a top concern for organizations worldwide, the startup’s goal of making every line of code safer may resonate beyond engineering teams—reaching the desks of CISOs and CEOs alike.

By: K. Tagura

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

Posted on

EdgeRunner Funded $12M to Bring Offline AI to the Battlefield

EdgeRunner

EdgeRunner AI is a Seattle, WA-based developer of a generative AI platform designed for domain-specific AI for the warfighter, defense community, and regulated enterprises. The company offers a platform for on-device AI agents, ensuring data privacy, security, and performance across various hardware platforms. Thus, it enables defense professionals and regulated enterprises to enhance operational efficiency while safeguarding sensitive data.

EdgeRunner AI was funded $12 million, led by Madrona Ventures, with participation from seed lead Four Rivers Ventures. New angel investors HP Tech Ventures and Alumni Ventures joined, bringing the total funding to $17.5M. Matt McIlwain, Managing Director at Madrona Ventures, will join EdgeRunner AI’s board of directors.

The new funding will accelerate the deployment of EdgeRunner’s “edge AI” systems—tools that run advanced machine learning models on local hardware, eliminating reliance on cloud computing or constant connectivity.

At its core, EdgeRunner is solving a problem that’s long plagued defense and tactical operations: how to run robust AI systems in environments where internet access is unreliable or nonexistent.

Edge AI refers to artificial intelligence that runs on devices rather than in distant data centers. This allows for real-time decision-making in the field, whether it’s identifying threats via drone footage, parsing local radio chatter, or guiding autonomous ground vehicles—all without a data uplink.

EdgeRunner’s hardware and software stack is designed for these harsh, bandwidth-constrained conditions. The company’s flagship product, Praetorian, is a compact, ruggedized AI module that can be mounted on drones or vehicles or carried by soldiers. It runs large language models (LLMs) and vision systems directly on-device, allowing for autonomous sensor data analysis and instant recommendations.

Until now, most military AI has relied heavily on cloud infrastructure or large server deployments, often far from the field. EdgeRunner is flipping that model. Its edge devices process data locally, improving speed and reliability and adding a layer of operational security by keeping sensitive data off networks.

The U.S. Department of Defense has already shown interest. EdgeRunner is currently piloting its systems with several defense agencies under small-scale contracts, and Schiavo said the company is actively expanding these partnerships.

While the initial focus is defense, EdgeRunner sees potential for its tech in disaster response, border security, and even space missions—any scenario where latency is critical and connectivity can’t be guaranteed.

The $12 million injection will help EdgeRunner double its engineering team, expand its testing programs, and refine its product suite. According to Red Cell Partners, the investment is not just about a promising startup—it’s about reshaping the way critical AI systems are deployed.

As the Pentagon and allied forces look to modernize their tactical capabilities, companies like EdgeRunner may be the key to unlocking battlefield-ready AI without a signal to function.

EdgeRunner’s funding marks a significant vote of confidence in the future of offline AI. With battlefields, borders, and crisis zones growing more complex, the ability to bring high-performance AI to the edge isn’t just a technical challenge—it’s a strategic imperative.

By: K. Tagura

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

Posted on

ALT Sports Data Funded $5M to Expand NXTbets Platform

NXTbets

ALT Sports Data is a San Diego, CA-based operator of a proprietary trading platform designed for modeling and distributing betting markets for alternative sports. The platform offers real-time odds and pricing, pre-match and live odds services, and in-play betting markets for specialist sports. It leverages advanced data models and market insights to engage with a global fanbase of over one billion alternative sports enthusiasts, enabling sportsbook operators to reach and retain untapped audiences.

ALT Sports Data was funded $5 million led by Relay Ventures and Eberg Capital, with participation from Motley Fool Ventures, Scrum Ventures, and a consortium of strategic angel investors.

The funding marks a significant step forward for the company as it aims to solidify its position in the evolving sports betting landscape, particularly in the underserved and fast-growing alternative sports segment. These include action sports like skateboarding, surfing, motocross, and others with passionate fanbases but limited presence in mainstream betting platforms.

ALT Sports Data has focused on aggregating and monetizing real-time data from non-traditional sports. With the legalization of sports betting continuing across the United States and other key markets, the company is tapping into an emerging niche: fans and bettors looking for deeper engagement with alternative sports.

NXTbets is central to this strategy. The platform offers curated betting insights, performance data, and real-time odds for events that typically fly under the radar of traditional sportsbooks. According to the company, NXTbets saw a 150% increase in user activity over the past six months, driven by a growing appetite for niche content and a surge in alternative sports events worldwide.

The newly raised capital will be used to scale internal operations, improve data infrastructure, and forge new partnerships with sports leagues, content creators, and sportsbooks. A portion of the funding will also go toward enhancing NXTbets’ user interface and expanding coverage to include more live events, betting models, and content formats, such as short-form video and interactive tools.

The move comes when alternative sports are gaining mainstream traction, particularly among younger audiences. Events like the X Games and Red Bull-sponsored competitions have built global fanbases, and more recently, action sports have gained Olympic recognition.

Analysts see ALT Sports Data’s approach as aligned with broader sports media and betting industry trends. As personalized content and micro-betting grow, niche sports could be a key battleground for user attention and retention.

By focusing on high-engagement, underrepresented sports, ALT Sports Data is positioning itself at the intersection of content, betting, and community. This combination could prove decisive in the coming years.

The company plans to integrate more machine-learning tools into its data platform, allowing for predictive modeling and customizable betting experiences. It also plans to roll out multilingual support and localized content in Europe and Latin America, where alternative sports have strong followings.

By: K. Tagura

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

Posted on

SlashExperts Funded $2M to Enhance B2B Marketing and Sales Platform

B2B

SlashExperts, a San Francisco, CA-based developer of a customer engagement platform designed to convert sales backchannels and customer references into scalable revenue opportunities. The company platform offers customizable booking systems, CRM integrations, and expert-driven conversion tools, enabling business-to-business sales and marketing teams to connect prospects with customer advocates, accelerate pipelines, and improve deal win rates.

SlashExperts was funded $2 million led by Social Leverage with Touring Capital and Veridical Ventures also participating, among other angel investors. The company intends to use the funds to enhance its platform’s features, ensuring connections between buyers and users.

SlashExperts has quickly emerged as a key player in the B2B marketing and sales ecosystem. Its core platform facilitates meaningful interactions between product buyers and actual users, offering transparent peer-driven insights, feedback, and guidance. This latest funding aims to accelerate product development, enhance AI-driven recommendation features, and expand go-to-market efforts across North America and Europe.

Braydan Young the CEO of SlashExperts commented, the new funding is a major milestone for SlashExperts. Their vision is to close the trust gap in B2B buying decisions by amplifying the voices of actual users. This capital enables them to double down on building smarter, more intuitive tools that help businesses make faster and more informed purchasing decisions.

In the hyper-competitive B2B space, the move signals a broader shift toward user-led growth (ULG) models, complementing the now widespread product-led growth (PLG) approach. By giving actual users a voice in the evaluation process, SlashExperts believes companies will see higher satisfaction and lower churn after onboarding new tools.

As the B2B landscape becomes increasingly complex, platforms like SlashExperts are positioning themselves as the trusted layer between marketing promises and real-world product use. With this fresh round of funding, the company is well-positioned to redefine how businesses connect, evaluate, and buy technology in a saturated and often opaque market.

By: K. Tagura

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

Posted on

Smart Moves: Why Every Entrepreneur Needs an Exit Plan

Most entrepreneurs pour their heart, soul, and countless hours into building their business. But what happens when it’s time to step away? That’s where an exit plan strategy comes into play. It’s not just for retiring or quitting — it’s about having a clear plan for your future, whether you’re selling, merging, handing over control, or simply winding things down.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the importance of an exit strategy and how to create one that aligns with your personal and professional goals.

What Is an Exit Strategy?

An exit strategy is a carefully thought-out plan for how an entrepreneur will transition out of their business while maximizing the value they’ve built. It can mean selling the company, merging with another, passing it to a successor, or even liquidating assets.

But contrary to popular belief, it’s not just about leaving — it’s about leaving smartly.

Why Every Entrepreneur Needs an Exit Strategy

1. Planning for the Future

Every business journey ends eventually — by choice or by force. Having a strategy ensures you’re not caught off guard. Whether you’re looking to retire, pursue new ventures, or need to respond to unforeseen circumstances, an exit strategy prepares you to act decisively.

2. Increasing Business Value

Businesses with clear exit plans often appear more attractive to investors and buyers. They signal good leadership, foresight, and operational readiness — all things that drive up valuation.

3. Avoiding Chaos

Without a clear exit plan, businesses often face leadership vacuums, operational confusion, and legal hurdles. Exit strategies minimize disruptions and ensure continuity.

4. Protecting Your Legacy

Your business is part of your legacy. An exit strategy allows you to choose how it’s remembered — whether it’s through successful succession, a major sale, or a lasting impact in your community or industry.

Types of Exit Strategies for Entrepreneurs

Exit StrategyDescription
Merger or AcquisitionSelling to or merging with another company
Initial Public Offering (IPO)Taking the business public for liquidity and expansion
Sell to a Third PartySelling your stake to another individual or company
Management BuyoutExisting management buys the business
Succession PlanningPassing control to a family member or chosen successor
LiquidationClosing the business and selling off assets

How to Create an Effective Exit Strategy

1. Define Your Personal and Business Goals

Start by asking yourself:

  • Do you want to retire, start something new, or keep partial ownership?
  • How much money do you want from the exit?
  • What legacy do you want to leave behind?

These answers shape your approach.

2. Evaluate Your Business Valuation

Knowing what your business is worth helps you determine when and how to exit. You can hire professionals for a formal valuation or use industry benchmarks as a rough estimate.

3. Identify Potential Buyers or Successors

Whether it’s a family member, employee, investor, or competitor, pinpoint who would be interested in taking over. This influences how you structure your business and position it over time.

4. Get Your Financials and Operations in Order

Buyers or successors will scrutinize your:

  • Profit and loss statements
  • Tax records
  • Operational processes
  • Legal obligations

Clean, organized records make transitions smoother and more lucrative.

5. Build a Transition Timeline

Exit strategies don’t happen overnight. Set a timeline for when and how you plan to leave. This might involve training a successor, grooming leadership, or hitting specific revenue milestones.

6. Consult Professionals

Work with:

  • Accountants
  • Business brokers
  • Attorneys
  • Financial planners

They help you navigate tax implications, legal hurdles, and market positioning.

Conclusion: The Smart Way Out Is Planning Ahead

Creating an exit strategy isn’t admitting defeat — it’s a power move. It gives you control over your future, ensures your business survives and thrives after you, and maximizes your hard-earned efforts.

Start today by evaluating your long-term goals and talking to professionals who can guide the process. The earlier you plan, the more choices you’ll have when it’s time to move on.

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

Posted on

How Startups Use Blockchain to Build Trust and Transparency

Blockchain

In 2025, blockchain for business is more than just a buzzword—it’s a game-changing force. Startups across the globe are harnessing the power of blockchain to reshape how businesses operate, build trust, and handle transactions. Whether it’s through secure smart contracts, transparent ledgers, or decentralized apps, blockchain is driving innovation like never before.

Let’s explore how startups are using blockchain to revolutionize business trust, streamline transactions, and elevate transparency.

1. Smart Contracts Are Making Transactions Tamper-Proof

Startups are adopting smart contracts—self-executing agreements with code-based terms—on platforms like Ethereum and Solana. These eliminate the need for intermediaries, making transactions faster, cheaper, and more secure. For example, blockchain-based legal tech startups use smart contracts to automate freelance agreements, reducing disputes and boosting trust between parties.

2. Supply Chain Transparency Like Never Before

Blockchain’s immutable ledger offers end-to-end visibility across supply chains. Startups in food, fashion, and pharmaceuticals are using blockchain to track products from origin to shelf. Consumers can scan a QR code and view a product’s journey—building credibility and promoting ethical sourcing.

An example is Provenance, a UK-based startup, using blockchain to help brands prove their sustainability claims with real-time data.

3. Decentralized Identity Systems Are Enhancing Digital Trust

With increasing concerns over data breaches and digital identity theft, startups are creating blockchain-based identity platforms. These give users control over their personal data, reducing dependency on centralized databases.

Companies like Civic and SelfKey allow individuals to verify their identity securely without sharing unnecessary personal information. This builds a layer of trust in digital onboarding and verification processes.

4. Crowdfunding and Tokenization Open New Funding Channels

Startups are ditching traditional venture capital routes and turning to blockchain-based crowdfunding like Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) and Security Token Offerings (STOs). These offer investors fractional ownership and faster liquidity options.

Platforms like Polymath and CoinList make it easier for founders to raise funds securely and transparently, democratizing access to capital.

5. Financial Inclusion Through DeFi (Decentralized Finance)

One of blockchain’s biggest disruptions is in the financial sector. Startups are building DeFi platforms that offer banking services—like loans, savings, and trading—without the need for traditional banks.

This creates financial inclusion for underserved communities globally, especially in developing regions where traditional banking infrastructure is limited.

Blockchain for business is creating a paradigm shift—from centralized control to decentralized trust. Startups are leading this transformation by solving real-world problems with innovative blockchain applications. As adoption grows, the future looks decentralized, transparent, and full of opportunity.

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.